Blackrock Neurotech, a leading developer of implantable BCIs, agreed to act as a non-exclusive distributor of Cognixion’s Axon-R device. Cognixion developed Axon-R as a non-invasive, wearable neural interface device. It enables precise measurement and modulation of brain activity through visual stimuli, biofeedback and neurofeedback.
Cognixion designed the investigational Axon-R with personalized, generative AI communication software. It could restore the ability to communicate for individuals who have lost the capability to do so through conventional means like speech, facial movement or eye glances. The technology uses augmented reality and EEG non-invasive brain sensing technologies. It delivers a hyper-intuitive generative AI interface that supports interpersonal, rapid conversations and turn-taking in real-time. The platform exceeds the typical words-per-minute text-to-speech technologies available today.
Under the collaboration, Blackrock Neurotech can offer Axon-R to research institutions through its distribution network.
“This collaboration represents a powerful alignment of complementary technologies that will have an outsized impact across neurotechnology applications,” said Andreas Forsland, CEO of Cognixion. “Blackrock Neurotech’s implant technology combined with Cognixion’s AI and augmented reality platform will open new doors for researchers and clinicians alike, while providing transformative solutions to the individuals we ultimately serve.”
More about the Cognixion – Blackrock Neurotech partnership
Axon-R provides non-invasive brain monitoring capabilities for foundational training and investigational research initiatives. Blackrock Neurotech says its core focus remains on implantable, sovereign BCIs to restore speech, movement and sensation. However, the company says making tools like Axon-R available opens new pathways for multidisciplinary innovation.
“At Blackrock Neurotech, our mission is restoring capability,” said Marcus Gerhardt, CEO of Blackrock Neurotech. “By expanding access to research-grade tools like Axon-R, we aim to support the early exploration of neural interfaces while maintaining our clinical focus on sovereign, high-fidelity implantable technologies that restore speech, movement, and sensation.”
Blackrock Neurotech develops the NeuroPort Array neural interfacing system. The system, used in human BCIs since 2004, helped patients regain tactile function, movement of limbs and prosthetics and the ability to control digital devices. They can achieve this despite diagnoses of paralysis and other neurological disorders.
In 2021, Blackrock Neurotech received FDA breakthrough device designation for its MoveAgain BCI system for providing immobile patients with the ability to control a range of devices by only thinking. The company said at the time of receiving the breakthrough nod that MoveAgain BCI could offer improved mobility and independence that leads to returning to work, participating in leisure activities and communicating more effectively and quickly.
The company said next-generation BCIs could extend further beyond those capabilities. It unveiled its next-generation Neuralace BCI in late 2022.
Last year, the company picked up $200 million in funding to further support its BCI technology. Analysts estimate a total addressable market (TAM) worth around $400 billion in the U.S. alone for BCI.
