Naqi unveils neural earbuds at CES to control devices with your mind

A new neural earbud technology from Naqi, demonstrated at CES 2025, enables users to control electronic devices through brain waves and subtle facial movements, offering a non-invasive alternative to brain-computer interfaces.

Core technology and functionality: Naqi Neural Earbuds translate brain activity and micro-gestures into device commands without requiring surgical implants.

• The earbuds detect and interpret signals from subtle actions like teeth clenching and quick sideways glances to control connected devices
• During demonstrations, users successfully controlled smart lamps and moved on-screen cursors using these micro-gestures
• The technology reads both brain wave patterns and facial muscle movements to enable precise device control

Practical applications: The neural earbuds could transform how people interact with various electronic devices and systems.

• The technology shows promise for controlling computers, smart home devices, robots, and mobility equipment without physical touch or voice commands
• Accessibility applications could particularly benefit individuals with limited mobility or dexterity
• The system represents a significant advancement over previous brain-wave measuring headphones that primarily tracked focus and fatigue levels

Development status: The product remains in active development as Naqi refines the design and functionality.

• Engineers are exploring different form factors, including a single-earbud version
• While pricing hasn’t been officially announced, early estimates suggest the earbuds could retail for $1,000 or more
• The company continues to test and expand the range of devices and applications the earbuds can control

Technical innovation and market positioning: The technology stands out for offering brain-computer interface capabilities in a consumer-friendly format.

• Unlike surgical brain implants, these earbuds provide a non-invasive method for neural control of devices
• The ability to combine brain wave detection with micro-gesture recognition represents a novel approach in consumer neurotechnology
• The system’s demonstration shows potential for practical, real-world applications beyond experimental or medical use cases

Future implications: While the technology shows promise, its success will likely depend on reliability in real-world conditions and user adoption rates.

• The price point could initially limit widespread adoption, though costs may decrease as the technology matures
• Integration with existing smart home and computer systems will be crucial for practical functionality
• The success of this non-invasive approach could influence the broader development of brain-computer interfaces, potentially reducing focus on surgical solutions