April 20, 2025
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Control for Quadriplegics

Naqi Neural Earbuds

BY CHRIS STOKEL-WALKER

When David Segal’s friend Keith broke his neck and pelvic bone at 18 and became a quadriplegic, his life changed immeasurably. Keith’s experience led Segal to invent Naqi Earbuds, which he calls “a safe, non-invasive, universal, invisible, and silent command and control system.” Electrical signals made by clenching your jaw or lifting an eyebrow turn into commands; wearers hear a voice to help navigate the invisible user interface. The still-in-­development device could be used to control wheelchairs or smart-home items. Segal sees pro gaming as another arena for the tech.

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