HyperX and Neurable Develop Brain-Sensing Gaming Headset

At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Neurable and HyperX presented a concept gaming headset that monitors brainwaves to assist gamers with focus. The prototype headset, which is currently in the alpha phase, features sensors in the earpads designed to read EEG signals. These sensors track metrics such as stress levels, focus, and cognitive load.

The demonstration involved establishing a baseline reaction time score using Human Benchmark's Aim Trainer, which was recorded at approximately 605ms. Following a session where the user attempted to condense a visual representation of their brain activity into a focused circle, the reaction time improved to 559ms. This represents an 8% improvement. While the headset does not use a full medical-grade sensor array, it utilizes an AI algorithm to infer activity from the signals it can capture. There is currently no information regarding a release date or price for the device.

The prototype headset unveiled by Neurable and HyperX addresses a common issue for gamers: maintaining focus during intense sessions. The device aims to provide real-time feedback on a user's mental state. The headset itself does not yet have an official name, as it is still in the early stages of development.

The core technology involves electroencephalography (EEG) sensors integrated directly into the earpads. These sensors pick up electrical activity from the brain. The goal is to allow users to visualize their current cognitive load and stress levels, enabling them to train themselves to enter a state of heightened focus.

During the demonstration in Las Vegas, the technology was used to guide a user through a focus exercise. The user was shown a program projecting rotating dots that represented their brain activity. The objective was to relax and focus intensely to condense these dots into a small, focused circle. Although the user did not achieve the 'pure focus' point during the CES demonstration, they successfully reduced the size of the visual representation.

To quantify the benefits of the Neurable and HyperX headset, a practical test was conducted using Human Benchmark's Aim Trainer. This served to establish a baseline for the user's reaction time before any focus training occurred.

The testing process followed these steps:

1. Establish a baseline score using the Aim Trainer (result: 605ms).
2. Engage with the brain visualization software to practice focus and relaxation.
3. Retake the Aim Trainer test to measure improvement.

After completing the focus training, the user's reaction time score improved to 559ms. This 8% improvement was noted despite the distracting environment typical of a major trade show like CES. The demonstration suggests that the headset can help users achieve a measurable increase in reaction speed through mental conditioning.

Neurable has been developing this technology for over 14 years, working to miniaturize EEG sensors from large, hospital-grade equipment into forms suitable for consumer headphones. This is not the company's first collaboration; in 2024, they partnered with Master & Dynamic to release the MW75 Neuro LT. That product focused on productivity rather than gaming, but it utilized the same core concept of reading brain signals to train focus.

The current prototype with HyperX faces similar technical limitations as previous iterations. Because the sensors are located only in the earpads, they cannot capture signals from the entire brain. To compensate, the device uses an AI algorithm to infer activity in other areas of the brain based on the data it receives from the sides of the head.

The developers acknowledge that this method is imperfect and not medically accurate. However, for the specific purpose of training a user to focus better, it is considered a functional starting point. As of now, Neurable and HyperX have not announced a release date, price, or confirmed plans to bring the product to market.