Merge Labs brain-computer interface spin-out and JBL Flip 7 Bluetooth speaker deal
Merge Labs brain-computer interface spin-out and JBL Flip 7 Bluetooth speaker deal marks a curious crossover of advanced neurotech and consumer audio. Merge Labs has been spun out of Forest Neurotech to focus on ultrasound that reads brain activity. Sumner Norman, Tyson Aflalo, and Alex Blania cofound the company, and insiders report an $850 million valuation. The startup remains in stealth, however it signals intense competition with firms such as Neuralink.
Forest’s ultrasound method detects blood flow changes rather than direct electrical signals. Because active brain regions show increased blood flow, this approach promises broader brain coverage. Moreover the device is miniaturized for wearable research use and can also deliver focused stimulation. Early safety trials supported by ARIA are underway in the UK and advisers include Mikhail Shapiro.
On the consumer side the JBL Flip 7 Bluetooth speaker deal is striking. Currently the speaker sells for $100 which reflects a $50 discount across colors and retailers. It offers IP68 dust and water resistance, a drop-tested design, and up to 14 hours of battery life. Moreover the package includes a cable and carabiner while Auracast support boosts multi-device streaming.
Merge Labs brain-computer interface spin-out and JBL Flip 7 Bluetooth speaker deal — the technology
Merge Labs emerges as a focused spin-out from Forest Neurotech to commercialize an ultrasound-based brain-computer interface. The team includes Forest CEO Sumner Norman, chief scientific officer Tyson Aflalo, and Alex Blania as a cofounder. Moreover adviser Mikhail Shapiro links the effort to leading academic labs. Reportedly the startup has sought funding at an $850 million valuation while remaining in stealth mode.
Forest’s approach measures brain activity indirectly by tracking blood flow. Because active brain regions attract more blood, ultrasound can map large-scale neural patterns. The system is miniaturized from clinical ultrasound gear to a wearable research tool. It also supports focused ultrasound stimulation, which could enable therapeutic interventions. Early safety trials in the UK run with ARIA support, and Bloomberg notes possible pairing with gene therapy in future work.
In contrast to Neuralink’s implanted electrodes, Merge Labs opts for a noninvasive pathway. Therefore it may offer broader whole-brain access, although with different spatial and temporal tradeoffs. The market will watch performance, regulatory progress, and integration with existing neurotech platforms.
Key facts
- Spin-out from Forest Neurotech with roots at Convergent Research
- Founders and leaders include Sumner Norman, Tyson Aflalo, and Alex Blania
- Adviser involvement from Mikhail Shapiro and ties to Caltech research
- Reported fundraising near an $850 million valuation while in stealth
- Ultrasound reads blood flow and can deliver focused stimulation
- Early UK safety trial supported by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency
| Feature | Merge Labs Ultrasound Interface | Neuralink Implantable Interface |
|---|---|---|
| Technology Type | Focused ultrasound sensor and stimulator | Implanted intracortical electrode arrays |
| Measurement Method | Indirect hemodynamic readout via blood flow changes | Direct electrical recordings from neurons |
| Stimulation Capability | Focused ultrasound neuromodulation noninvasively | Electrical stimulation via implanted electrodes |
| Invasiveness | Noninvasive to wearable form factor; no craniotomy | Invasive surgical implant requiring craniotomy |
| Trial Status and Regulatory | Early UK safety trials supported by ARIA; stealth company | Ongoing limited human trials; high regulatory scrutiny |
| Spatial and Temporal Tradeoffs | Broader whole brain coverage; lower temporal resolution | High temporal precision; local high fidelity channels |
| Potential Applications | Whole brain mapping, neuromodulation, therapy, augmentation | High bandwidth prosthetics, motor control, precision BCI |
| Main Differences | Noninvasive hemodynamic based with broader coverage and stimulation options | Invasive electrical based with higher temporal fidelity and localized channels |
Merge Labs brain-computer interface spin-out and JBL Flip 7 Bluetooth speaker deal — Flip 7 highlights
The JBL Flip 7 is on a standout promotional cycle, currently discounted to $100. For shoppers this reflects a $50 saving on the portable Bluetooth speaker. Moreover the Flip 7 pairs rugged design with modern connectivity. You get IP68 dust and water resistance and a drop-tested chassis for outdoor use. Additionally the speaker supports Auracast for multi-device streaming and robust wireless sharing.
Key features and selling points
- Price and availability: on sale for $100 across colors and select retailers; check the official product page at JBL Official Product Page and retailer listings such as AT&T Store
- Durability: IP68 rating and drop-tested design for beach and trail use
- Battery life: up to 14 hours of continuous playtime with efficient power management
- Sound and tech: Playtime Boost and JBL tuning for punchy bass and clear mids
- Extras: packaged cable and a carabiner for easy portability
For everyday listeners and outdoor enthusiasts the Flip 7 delivers reliable sound and features. However its real appeal is the mix of durability, battery life, and wireless features. Therefore it remains a strong value during this promotion.
Conclusion
The Merge Labs brain-computer interface spin-out and JBL Flip 7 Bluetooth speaker deal illustrate two sides of modern tech innovation. Merge Labs advances noninvasive, ultrasound-based brain interfaces that promise whole-brain access and new neuromodulation paths. Meanwhile consumer offerings like the JBL Flip 7 deliver rugged design and wireless features at strong price points. Together they show how research-grade breakthroughs and everyday gadgets shape markets and user expectations.
For builders and operators, the key takeaway is momentum. Venture activity, regulatory trials, and product promotions are converging to accelerate adoption. Therefore industry stakeholders should watch safety data, integration pathways, and user experiences closely.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Merge Labs and why was it spun out of Forest Neurotech?
Merge Labs is a startup spun out of Forest Neurotech in Los Angeles. The spin-out aims to commercialize an ultrasound-based brain-computer interface. Founders include Sumner Norman, Tyson Aflalo, and Alex Blania. Moreover adviser Mikhail Shapiro connects the effort to top academic labs. The company remains in stealth while pursuing funding and trials. For more about Forest Neurotech, see Forest Neurotech.
How does Merge Labs’ ultrasound brain-computer interface work?
The system detects brain activity indirectly by tracking blood flow. Because active regions show increased perfusion, ultrasound can map neural patterns. The device is miniaturized from clinical ultrasound gear to a wearable research form. In addition it can deliver focused ultrasound stimulation for neuromodulation. Early safety work runs in the UK with ARIA support. See the Advanced Research and Invention Agency at ARIA.
How does Merge Labs compare with Neuralink?
Merge Labs uses noninvasive, hemodynamic readouts. Neuralink records direct electrical signals with implanted electrodes. Therefore Merge Labs may offer broader whole-brain access. However Neuralink provides higher temporal precision and local signal fidelity. Each approach trades invasiveness against signal type and application focus.
What is known about leadership, valuation, and timeline?
Leadership includes Sumner Norman and Tyson Aflalo. Alex Blania is a cofounder and Mikhail Shapiro advises. Reports cite fundraising near an $850 million valuation. Yet the company remains stealthy, with public timelines tied to trial outcomes.
What is the JBL Flip 7 deal and where can I buy it?
The JBL Flip 7 is discounted to about $100 in many markets. Key features include IP68 dust and water resistance, drop-tested design, Auracast compatibility, and up to 14 hours of battery life. For official product details visit JBL Flip 7. Check major retailers and local listings for current stock and pricing.