I thought this was a cool and creative alternative solution to hearing aids
Really interesting devices they are building, there are so many potential applications for non-invasive brain-machine interfaces.
Very interesting. I will ask Grant Searchfield at UoA about this
The application of multisensory stimulation to hearing to harness crosssensory plasticity is increasingly a subject of interest. This is particularly so in tinnitus where auditory stimulation paired with tactile stimulation (neosensory) electrical neck or tongue stimulation (trigeminal) or vagus nerve stimulation is being used. Although promising and commercilised the optimal paramaters esp regarding interaction between senses are unknown, so it is a bit hit or miss. Regarding replacing hearing aids - unlikely - the stimulation resolution of the somatosensory system is not comparable to audition. Tactile devices were used several decades ago before cochlear implants became widespread e.g. “TactAid” and the “Tickler-talker” but they provide little more than sound awareness. Pairing tactile stimulation time with sound makes sound appear louder, but the marketing department have got a wee bit too excited to claim hearing speech through vibrations.
Thanks Grant - good to hear the expert view!
Thank you so much for taking the time to provide your expertise, Grant ![]()
always happy to share ideas & thoughts