If you are heading to Orlando this weekend for AAO 2025, here is some good news: artificial intelligence has moved beyond the “futuristic concept” stage to become an established clinical tool. This year’s programme is full of sessions designed to demonstrate how AI can be integrated into everyday ophthalmic practice.
Get up to speed immediately
Begin your conference on Saturday morning with How Artificial Intelligence Influences You and Your Patients (SYM03, 8:00–9:15 AM, W414AB). This essential primer looks like a great way to provide the context needed to navigate the AI discussions taking place throughout the meeting.
For a more forward-looking perspective, AI in Ophthalmology: What to Know in 2025 (SYM44, Sunday 2:00–3:15 PM, W311E) will consolidate insights gained from earlier sessions and offer a timely overview.
Focus on Retina
For those with a retina focus, Real-World Management of Macular Disease Using AI-Based Tools (Session 493, Sunday 3:45–5:00 PM, W311CD) will explore the practical application of AI algorithms in clinical settings.
If you are interested in imaging, consider Role of Cross-Sectional, Angiographic, Wide-Field, Navigated, En Face, 3-D, Segmented and Applied AI in OCT Imaging (Session 211, Saturday 8:00 AM, W311AB) for a deeper dive into advanced modalities.
For practice leaders
Practice leaders should make time for AI Innovations: Exclusive AAOE Board and Industry Conversation (Session 498, Sunday 9:45–11:00 AM, W304G). This discussion will bring together board members and industry experts to consider the operational future of AI—valuable context for planning your practice’s technology roadmap.
The Future of AI in Ophthalmology (Session 459, Sunday 2:00–3:15 PM, W303) will also provide a broader perspective on developments to watch.
Hands-on experience
For those who prefer experiential learning, Smartphones in Ophthalmology: #TheFutureIsAI (LAB132, Sunday 11:30 AM–1:30 PM, W107) offers a workshop featuring mobile health tools and AI-enabled diagnostics.
The bigger picture
Sessions such as Next-Generation Ophthalmology: Advances in Surgery, Innovation and AI (SYM13, Saturday 11:30 AM–12:45 PM, W414AB) and Transforming Eye Care: Where Are AI Agents and Smartphones Taking Us? (Session 235, Saturday 9:45–11:00 AM, W308) will place AI within the broader context of innovation in ophthalmology.
Key takeaway
AI is no longer confined to experimental discussions; it is integrated across the AAO 2025 programme, from clinical subspecialties to practice management. This shift underscores that AI is not a distant trend but a present reality. The meeting provides an important opportunity to explore what this means for both clinical care and patient outcomes.
Take a look at the official programme and planner for further information.
Citation: AAO 2025: Don’t miss these AI sessions this weekend. touchOPHTHALMOLOGY. 17 October, 2025.
Disclosure: This article was created by the touchOPHTHALMOLOGY team utilizing AI as an editorial tool (ChatGPT (GPT-4o) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat.) The content was developed and edited by human editors. No funding was received in the publication of this article.
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