Cognixion Raises $12M for Brain-Monitoring Headset | Disability Tech
Cognixion Secures $12M in Series A Funding for Brain-Computer Interface
Cognixion, a company pioneering the development of a user-friendly brain-monitoring headset and interface designed for individuals facing physical limitations, has successfully completed a $12 million Series A funding round. This investment will facilitate the fulfillment of the extensive requirements necessary for broad availability of any medical or assistive technology.
Innovative Brain Activity Detection
The company, previously detailed in coverage from May, has created a headset utilizing electroencephalography (EEG) to identify specific brain activity patterns. These patterns are then translated into cursor control and navigation within a comprehensive interface.
An iPhone serves as the central processing unit and display, with connectivity to accessories like speakers and specialized accessibility tools, enabling users to manage all their needs through a unified interface.
Advancements in EEG Technology
At the core of this technology is a novel type of non-invasive electrode coupled with a machine learning system capable of rapidly interpreting the signals received from the headset’s embedded sensors. Traditional EEGs often suffer from slow speeds and signal noise, but Cognixion’s methodology achieves both speed and relative precision.
This level of accuracy allows individuals to reliably interact with contemporary user interfaces directly through their brain activity.
Targeting Individuals with Severe Physical Disabilities
The device is specifically intended for those with physical disabilities that preclude the use of standard accessibility solutions such as joysticks or gaze-tracking systems. Currently, options for individuals in this situation are limited, and existing solutions can be slow and cumbersome.
Progress Towards Market Availability
Following its emergence from stealth mode, Cognixion has been diligently working on the various steps required to bring an assistive device to market. While initial pilot programs with early adopters have been conducted, further testing is needed to secure insurance coverage and gain acceptance from healthcare professionals.
“Our recent efforts have concentrated on clinical and regulatory compliance, alongside optimization and efficiency improvements,” stated Andreas Forsland, CEO and co-founder. “We actively involve a group of nearly 150 users, clinicians, and caregivers in our development process, receiving valuable feedback that informs our design iterations. We are nearing a final hardware design, with current improvements focusing on the user interface and language system.”
New Features: Predictive Speech and Alexa Integration
Two significant features are currently under development. The first is a predictive speech algorithm designed to assist users in constructing complete sentences quickly and adapting to their individual communication styles.
The second is direct integration with Alexa. Cognixion is collaborating with Amazon to establish the headset as a fully functional smart device hub, extending beyond simple voice commands.
Image Credits: Cognixion“We are deeply appreciative of the support from Amazon’s Alexa team and Amazon’s willingness to grant the necessary exceptions to facilitate this integration,” Forsland commented. “Currently, no augmentative communication tools or assistive technologies offer direct connectivity with home automation systems. This represents a significant advancement for the accessibility industry and universal design as a whole.”
Investment Details and Future Outlook
The $12 million funding round was spearheaded by Prime Movers Lab, with additional participation from Northwell Health, Amazon Alexa Fund, and Volta Circle.
“Cognixion ONE appears to be a product of science fiction, yet it is already a reality,” remarked Amy Kruse, GP at Primer Movers Lab, in the company’s press release. “We are confident that it will be a transformative combination of AI software and hardware, providing essential assistance to individuals of all ages living with speech and motor disabilities, including cerebral palsy, brainstem stroke, ALS, and other conditions.”
Forsland indicated that they have already secured a reseller and distributor with connections to nearly every research university, suggesting a promising outlook for the innovative accessibility solution. Widespread availability of the ONE headset is anticipated, offering hope to those who could benefit from this technology.
