Researchers are trying to help us concentrate better … by zapping our brains. The Halo headband is a new prototype that straps onto your head, specifically to your temples, using “neuromodulation that elevates cognitive performance”.
The headband has been developed by the trio of Amol Sarva, Brett Wingeler, and Daniel Chao, which they say is completely safe and backed by science. There hasn’t been much more information revealed about the device but it has since received funding from one of tech’s biggest investors, Marc Andreessen, who has backed a $1.5 million seed round for the company.
Sarva, Wingeler and Chao are no spring chickens, though, having run start-ups before including Sarva’s Gramofon router, so the pair knows what it takes to secure suitable funding for their ventures.
The Halo claims to have the “ability to tune neurons to boost or calm their endogenous action” so that the wearer can focus more thoroughly on the tasks in front of them. The creators were inspired by an Oxford study that showed electric currents could help people with math.
With funding now in the bag, the Halo can move forward with its research and development but it has another major obstacle ahead … securing FDA approval.
Irish journalist writing on business, tech and engineering.
