People with mobility impairments might need assistance with typing, scrolling, or gaming. These disabilities can affect someone’s ability to work or connect with others socially.
Corten Singer and Tomás Vega, co-founders of Augmental, an MIT Media Lab spinoff, are determined to give people with disabilities more control — and that’s where a new assistive technology called MouthPad could have a big impact.
What is MouthPad?
MouthPad allows users to control their electronic devices with their tongues. MouthPad resembles a plastic retainer, like Invisalign, and encases a trackpad, pressure sensor, battery, charging coil, and Bluetooth chip.
How does MouthPad work?
MouthPad is a bespoke device, meaning its design is customized to the user’s oral anatomy. The technology fits into the user’s mouth and connects to their device via Bluetooth. When MouthPad is inserted, users can talk and close their mouths, eliminating the bulky and sometimes uncomfortable traits associated with mouth-controlled joysticks.
The company acknowledges that MouthPad works best when paired with speech technology, however the device can be used without voice if the user is in a situation where they want to be discreet.
When is MouthPad available?
To receive a MouthPad device, interested parties must first join the waitlist. After that, they coordinate a dental scan with a local dental professional to be sent to Augmental.
For now, Augmental, must complete its FCC certification before it can sell and ship the devices. So, details surrounding the device’s price and widespread availability are unclear.
