CES 2025: Medical Technology between Daily Life and Clinic

Measure stress in the ear: Emotiv headphones analyze brain waves

Seamlessly from playlist or phone call to meditation: the MW20 headphones from Emotiv simultaneously measure the activity in the brain, e.g. the stress level. Made from aluminum and sapphire glass, the in-ear headphones combine high-quality audio with advanced EEG technology. The integrated dual-channel EEG sensors continuously record brain activity, enabling non-invasive neurological monitoring in everyday life. The AI-supported technology analyses up to 15 different cognitive performance metrics and provides personalized recommendations for action. The headphones are explicitly not a medical device and are therefore intended exclusively for research purposes and personal use.

Wellness tool with brain-computer interface

Nevertheless, according to Emotiv, the data collected on stress levels, ability to concentrate and states of relaxation can provide valuable research insights and / or personal wellness suggestions. A brain-computer interface (BCI) uses machine learning to convert brain patterns into digital control commands. This technology allows intuitive control of virtual environments and opens up new perspectives for research approaches. The active noise canceling function ensures interference-free measurements.

The MW20 EEG headphones build on the previous MN8 model launched in 2018 and, with their improved sensor technology and AI integration, represent a step forward in the non-medical measurement of brain activity. Thanks to their ergonomic design and ease of use, the earbuds with headband are particularly suitable for long-term monitoring in a (personal) research context. However, a subscription is required for regular measurement.