Mind the Sound: Apple’s New Hearing Aids and Other Breakthroughs in Neurotechnology! 💡- Issue #11
Welcome to the latest edition of Neurotech Pulse - Issue #11! In this issue, we share some of the latest innovations shaping the future of the field: the FDA has approved Apple AirPods as hearing aids, AI is being used to predict dementia risk from brain scans, and sound manipulation during sleep may enhance memory and cognition. Explore how Synchron’s BCI technology now allows users to control Amazon Alexa with their minds, and check out Neuralink's FDA breakthrough designation for their 'Blindsight' implant. Plus, learn about DeepWell DTx’s FDA-cleared SDK for stress reduction and hypertension. We also spotlight OpenBCI’s Galea platform, which merges biometric insights with immersive experiences in VR and AR.
Join us in exploring these exciting advancements, upcoming educational events, and more shaping the future of neurotech!
🧠 Neurotech Trends:
FDA approves some Apple AirPods to be used as hearing aids: The FDA has approved a new feature for Apple AirPods Pro 2 that transforms them into a hearing aid for adults with mild to moderate hearing impairment. This feature, available through a software update this fall, allows users to conduct a hearing test at home and personalize sound settings to enhance specific sounds, such as speech, in real time. With over 30 million American adults experiencing hearing loss, this advancement addresses accessibility issues and aims to reduce the stigma surrounding hearing aids. While designed for those with mild to moderate conditions, the initiative represents a significant step toward making hearing support more affordable and accessible. (Learn more)
Scientists to use AI to analyse 1.6m brain scans to develop tool predicting dementia risk: Researchers at the University of Edinburgh and the University of Dundee are leveraging artificial intelligence to analyze over 1.6 million brain scans, aiming to develop a tool for predicting dementia risk. The project, part of the global NEURii initiative, will match CT and MRI imaging data with health records to identify patterns that could enhance early diagnosis and treatment of dementia. With dementia cases projected to rise to 153 million by 2050, this effort addresses a critical health challenge, potentially enabling earlier clinical decision-making and the development of targeted treatments. The integration of this AI-driven tool within routine radiology could revolutionize dementia care, making it more efficient and effective. (Learn more).
Manipulating Brain Waves During Sleep With Sound: Researchers at the University of Surrey have discovered that sound stimulation can manipulate brain waves during REM sleep, a phase crucial for memory and cognition. Using a non-invasive technique called closed-loop auditory stimulation, they successfully increased the frequency of brain oscillations that typically slow down in dementia patients, potentially improving memory functions. This innovative approach could lead to new treatments for dementia while minimizing disruption to patients' lives. The study highlights the therapeutic promise of sound stimulation in enhancing cognition during sleep and advancing the understanding of brain oscillations in REM sleep. (Read more)
📘 Neurotech Articles:
This Brain Implant Lets People Control Amazon Alexa With Their Minds: Synchron is expanding the capabilities of its brain-computer interface (BCI) technology by integrating it with Amazon Alexa, enabling users with paralysis to control the virtual assistant using only their thoughts. Mark, a 64-year-old ALS patient, is the first to utilize this innovation, allowing him to manage smart home devices, stream entertainment, and more, all without voice commands or physical interaction. This latest advancement builds upon Synchron's previous integration with the Apple Vision Pro, showcasing the potential for BCIs to enhance accessibility and independence in everyday life. As Synchron continues to explore further applications, it represents a significant step forward in making technology more inclusive for individuals with severe mobility limitations. (Read more)
DeepWell DTx wins FDA clearance of software development kit, with first indications for stress reduction and hypertension: DeepWell Digital Therapeutics (DTx) has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its biofeedback software development kit (SDK), designed for use in immersive media, including video games, to aid in stress reduction and as an adjunctive treatment for hypertension. The SDK allows developers to integrate its technology into various media without compromising safety or efficacy. Following the success of their mental health action shooter game, "Zengence," DeepWell plans to collaborate with media and medical device companies to enhance patient engagement. The SDK's clearance may facilitate future reimbursement options under proposed Digital Mental Health Treatment codes, potentially expanding access to mental health solutions for millions of Americans. (Read more)
Neuralink gets FDA's breakthrough device tag for 'Blindsight' implant: Neuralink has earned the FDA's Breakthrough Device designation for its "Blindsight" implant, a device designed to help restore visual perception for individuals who have lost their sight. The implant works by bypassing damaged optic nerves and directly stimulating the brain's visual cortex. This designation accelerates the development and review process, bringing Neuralink one step closer to offering a groundbreaking solution for visual impairments. The "Blindsight" implant represents a significant milestone in brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, with potential applications extending to other neurological conditions in the future. (Read more)
🌐 Neurotech Edu. and Events:
Annual NeuroTech Convention of SBMT 2025 (Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, California)
Date: February 27 - March 2, 2025
Why attend the event?
This premier event will unite physicians, scientists, and policymakers to explore breakthroughs in brain and spinal cord mapping and image-guided therapies. Engage in discussions on integrating nanotechnology and cellular therapy with medical devices and imaging.Link to Register: Register Here
BCI & Neurotechnology Spring School 2025 (Online)
Date: April 28 - May 7, 2025
Why attend the event?
Join a global community of neurotechnology enthusiasts and experts at this virtual event, building on last year’s success with over 82,000 participants. Engage in hands-on sessions and network with peers while exploring the latest in brain-computer interface technologies.Link to Register: Register Here
BioFuture 2025 (New York City, New York)
Date: October 28-30, 2025
Why attend the event?
Join innovators, investors, and changemakers to explore the convergence of biopharma, digital medicine, AI, and more. Engage in candid discussions that will shape the future of healthcare and connect with leaders in the field. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear Naveen Rao moderating a panel of brilliant speakers!Link to Register: Register Here
🎬Case Studies
Case Study Spotlight: OpenBCI’s Galea – Merging Biometric Insights with VR and AR
In this edition's case study spotlight, we highlight Galea, an innovative platform from OpenBCI, a leader in the field of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Founded in 2013 by Joel Murphy and Conor Russomanno, OpenBCI has been at the forefront of developing open-source neurotechnology solutions.
Overview: Galea is a hardware and software platform that integrates next-generation brain-computer interface technology with head-mounted displays. It is the first device that simultaneously measures brain, heart, skin, muscle, and eye activity. Designed as an add-on for virtual and augmented reality headsets, Galea simplifies the process of collecting tightly synchronized biometric data, enabling new techniques for objectively measuring user experiences and internal states of mind.
Use Case Highlights:
Neurofeedback VR Experiences: The Synesthesia Room utilizes Galea to create an immersive environment that adapts its audio and visual elements based on the user’s EEG brain activity. This real-time feedback allows users to gain insights into their cognitive states, fostering awareness and enabling them to learn how to modulate their mental conditions effectively
Exploring Accessibility through Hands-Free Gaming Control: Galea’s innovative sensor technology, which translates facial muscle movements and eye-tracking data into control inputs, offers exciting possibilities for accessibility in gaming. In a demonstration, OpenBCI’s CEO used Galea to play "Cat Runner," navigating the game entirely by twitching his cheek muscles. While this remains in the proof-of-concept stage, it highlights the future possibilities Galea may unlock in the gaming industry.
Target Audience: Galea is designed for researchers, developers, and engineers working in the fields of neurotechnology and immersive experiences. It is especially valuable for those seeking to enhance user interactions through personalized data-driven insights.
Key Partnerships:
OpenBCI collaborates with academic institutions and industry leaders to refine Galea's capabilities. These partnerships are crucial in advancing research and exploring new applications for biometric insights in virtual and augmented reality.
OpenBCI is led by Conor Russomanno, whose passion for open-source neurotechnology has shaped the company’s mission. His leadership has been instrumental in driving innovation at OpenBCI, with Galea standing out as a vital platform that empowers researchers and creators to explore human cognition and physiological responses in new and immersive ways.
To learn more about Galea and its potential applications, visit OpenBCI
🌟 Nexstem Announcements
Nexstem Celebrates a Milestone Achievement!
We are proud to announce that Nexstem has won the Best HealthTech Startup award at the Global Startup Awards. This recognition is a huge milestone, and we are incredibly grateful for your support!
Show us some love on LinkedIn 💜
Neurotech Pulse Special Edition: Call for Contributions!
Calling all researchers and writers! Want to showcase your work in our upcoming Neurotech Insights edition? Reach over 5,000+ neurotech enthusiasts by sharing your innovative research. Submit your details and work to saman.nawaz@nexstem.ai
💡Question:
Results of Previous Poll:
Which part of the brain do you think holds the most untapped potential?Frontal lobe 50%
Occipital lobe 50%
Temporal lobe 0%
Parietal lobe 0%
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