CES 2026: startup NAOX showed headphones that can take EEGs of the brain

French startup NAOX brought an innovative wearable EEG device to CES for clinics and research, but its consumer version is of far more interest. The company demonstrated a prototype of wireless headphones, in which brain scanning technology is embedded. By the end of the year, familiar headphones will theoretically be able to not only play music, but also track brain health.

The device officially unveiled is called the NAOX Link NX01, an in-canal EEG system designed as a more convenient alternative to the bulky «hats» with wires that are commonly used in sleep clinics, for example. The solution is focused on long-term medical research and allows the patient’s condition to be monitored in a daily environment. NAOX emphasizes that the Link NX01 is intended for clinical use only and is not intended for free sale to general users.

Much more interesting is the NAOX Wave project — wireless headphones that utilize the same in-ear EEG technology as the clinical model. Like the professional version, the system discreetly tracks biomarkers of brain activity throughout the day. According to the company, the headphones will be able to analyze mental activity during work, rest and sleep. An accompanying mobile app will provide the user with data on mental health, sleep quality, cognitive performance, and an estimate of «the age» of the brain.

Mental health, sleep quality, cognitive efficiency, and an estimate of «the age» of the brain.