Scientists Reveal 'Olo,' a New Laser-Induced Color

Scientists from UC Berkeley and the University of Washington have discovered a new color, 'olo,' by using a device called Oz to stimulate only the medium-wavelength (M) cones in the human retina with precise laser pulses. Five participants perceived this highly saturated blue-green hue, which cannot be seen in natural vision or reproduced with ordinary light, pigments, or digital screens. The experiment involved mapping each participant’s retina to target individual cone cells, overcoming the natural overlap that typically prevents such isolated stimulation. The findings, published in Science Advances, reveal that 'olo' is more vivid than any known color and cannot be seen by the naked eye, making it unlikely for use in consumer products. Experts highlight the subjective and highly controlled conditions required for perceiving 'olo,' underlining both the adaptability and limitations of human color perception. The discovery opens new research avenues in color vision and sensory experience.