It has been reported that researchers from Melbourne have recently developed a prototype for the bionic eye, which also looks similar to a pair of dark sunnies. They hope to embed these in a person's eye by 2013.

Researchers hope that one day the bionic eye could give virtual sight back to the ones with impaired vision.

It has been said that the prototype is a minute video camera which is attached in the center of a pair of dark glasses.

The functioning of the bionic eye happens when the tiny camera captures images and is sent wirelessly to an implant attached to the person's retina. Then the electrodes on the retina are enthused to create vision.

Researchers are optimistic that although during the testing the images sent were blurry, black and white dots, someday it could be so highly developed to allow the patient to recognize faces and read big prints.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd revealed the research plan, which is being financed by a $42 million Central grant which was declared last December.

He stated, "I've never heard of anything quite as inspiring as this particular idea. I've never heard of it before, I'm quite free to admit".

"If it could work, it would be an outstanding contribution to our common humanity", he added.

The tests for the prototype are being carried out by Bionic Vision Australia (BVA).