Neurable, which makes noninvasive brain-computer interfaces, is licensing its technology and promises a “flood” of new third-party hardware this year and next.The next wearable device you use could potentially scan your brain, thanks to Neurable, a Boston-based firm that integrates its noninvasive brain-scanning technology into hardware to track an individual’s concentration levels. On Tuesday, Neurable announced its shift to a licensing platform model, allowing third-party certification. This move is expected to result in a surge of consumer gadgets featuring Neurable’s technology in the coming years.
Until now, Neurable has concentrated its efforts on a pair of consumer-grade headphones, developed in collaboration with audio brand Master & Dynamic. The company also has a contract with the US Department of Defense to explore how its technology can track blast overpressure and potentially assist in diagnosing mild traumatic brain injuries in soldiers. With the new licensing model, we can anticipate seeing more of Neurable’s technology in everyday head-based wearables.
The headphones are equipped with built-in electroencephalography (EEG) sensors that monitor brain waves. This data is transmitted to a companion app, which alerts users when they need a “brain break,” encouraging them to rest before reaching the point of burnout, thereby maximizing productivity. The app also allows users to assess their cognitive readiness for the day, their brain age, and other metrics such as mental recovery, cognitive strain, and resilience to anxiety. However, WIRED staff writer Emily Mullin, who tested the original headphones in 2024, found it challenging to confirm the accuracy of Neurable’s algorithms.
Now, HyperX, a gaming brand owned by HP, is launching a gaming headset featuring Neurable’s technology, aimed at enhancing human performance in esports gaming. The headphones are designed to help users achieve the optimal mindset for peak performance. Neurable’s CEO and co-founder, Ramses Alcaide, told WIRED that the company has published a white paper demonstrating improved performance among gamers using Neurable’s technology, including decreased response times in first-person shooter games and a slight increase in accuracy.
While these improvements may seem minor, every millisecond counts in the fast-paced world of esports gaming. Alcaide believes that this technology could have similar benefits in other areas, such as helping students reduce anxiety before exams or athletes prepare for a race or game. Neurable’s technology is hardware-agnostic and can be integrated into headphones, smart glasses, hats, or helmets. Alcaide envisions a future where brain-scanning tech in headphones becomes as commonplace as wrist-worn heart-rate trackers.
Neurable’s technology is “invisible” in these devices. Companies that license Neurable’s tech can incorporate it into their existing hardware, controlling the entire experience from product design to software, which could enhance SEO.
