OPTOS has unveiled a new device which it believes will allow clinicians to take a more sophisticated picture of the retina.

The California system, developed at the company's research and development facility at its headquarters in Dunfermline, Fife, was shown at the American Academy of Ophthalmology conference in Chicago at the weekend.

The new device is said to operate in a different segment of the market from the current flagship Daytona model.

The latter is more typically used by optometrists for regular eye tests and check-ups. California is being pitched at the ophthalmology sector, where a more demanding range of clinical elements is monitored.

According to Optos, the Californian is the "most comprehensive ultra-widefield retinal-imaging device on the market".

The Scottish firm claims the device, compared to other imaging options, allows eye-care professionals to see 50 per cent more of the retina.

In turn, Optos believes that will allow ophthalmologists to identify disease more quickly and start treatments earlier.

Among the conditions which Optos believes the device is likely to provide additional help in identifying are neovascular age-related macular degeneration and disorders related to choroidal neovascular membranes, which are blood vessels that grow beneath the retina and can disrupt vision.

Roy Davis, Optos' chief executive, said: "I am delighted to unveil California, our newest offering for the ophthalmology market.

"The additional functions available in this product give ophthalmologists a more comprehensive array of imaging tools in one machine, enabling them to see and treat retinal pathology more effectively. We are extremely excited by the opportunities this product brings to the business."

The company has yet to specify when California will be available to buy. But sales are expected to start in the first half of next year.