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The Science of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
Vagus nerve stimulation can be achieved non-invasively through targeting specific auricular fibres in the ear.
As a key cranial nerve in the human nervous system, the vagus nerve carries signals of the body's state of balance (homeostasis) to- and from- the brain. In common health conditions, there is often an imbalance of these signals causing underlying discomfort.
NX08 wearable uses auricular fibre vagus nerve stimulation (afVNS) - through carefully bioengineered neuromodulation patterns - to stimulate the vagus nerve and naturally rebalance the nervous system for better health and wellness.
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Neural Mechanisms of afVNS
By directly activating sensory A-beta nerve fibres in the ear, afVNS stimulates the auriculo-vagal neural pathways, shifting the nervous system toward a parasympathetic "rest and digest" state—the body's natural relaxed mode.
NX08 Neurotechology
Wireless & Wearable
NX08 neurotechnology delivers optimized bioelectrical formulae to activate auricular fibers of the vagus nerve, achieving better health outcomes in a shorter period of time. Built on expertly developed bioengineering that maximizes performance, it offers an advanced, user-centric solution for improved health and well-being.
Advanced Neuromodulation
Neuropix NX08 wearable works in a different way to transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) machines
NX08 Wearable
NX08 uses optimized afVNS to work with key neural anatomical pathways rather than inhibition or blockade of sensory stimulation. Through precise electrode placement to auricular fibres, it modulates central and peripheral nervous system pathways to improve health and wellness.
TENS
TENS units, by contrast, operate by stimulating local nerves and competing with local sensory nerve fibers to block them. As a result, TENS must be applied directly at the site of pain to block pain or muscle ache when it occurs.
Scientific Data
NX08 neuromodulation is backed by over a decade of scientific and clinical research confirming that afVNS is a safe and feasible application. Published studies have demonstrated its health benefits, establishing afVNS as a safe and accessible therapy.

Ko, 2021
afVNS in neurodegeneration

Wang et al., 2022
Better cognitive function in aging

Kim et al., 2022
Safety & accessibilty analyses

Bretherton et al., 2019
Benefits on physiology and aging

Ferreira et al., 2024
Promoting calm

Llanos et al., 2020
Enhancing learning and memory

Jackowska et al, 2022
Better sleep

Hein et al., 2013
Benefits for a depressive state
Backed by Science

NX08 technology is informed by decades of neuroscience research, bringing this knowledge into a portable wearable device designed for everyday wellbeing.
Health Indications
afVNS therapy is used to reduce stress, improve sleep, focus, and support healthier aging. It is not an acute therapy and may take several weeks to take effect. Designed as a self-applied application, it can be used at the user's convenience. For full healthcare indications, please contact the Neuropix team for further information.
Safety Information
afVNS therapy should not be used by pregnant women, persons with active implants (e.g., cochlear implants, vagus nerve stimulators, or pacemakers), cerebral shunts, or on diseased skin. Users with underlying cardiac conditions should consult their medical doctor to determine suitability. For full use instructions and safety information, please refer to the user manuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bioelectronics? What is Neuromodulation?
Bioelectronics are applications used for therapy in health conditions or diseases of the nervous system. This includes ‘neuromodulation’ which is the use of electrical stimulation to help regulate nerve activity through an implanted or external device. Bioelectronics have been used in healthcare therapy and clinical medicine for several decades and can provide significant health benefits for a range of health conditions.
Who can use afVNS? When should it not be used?
afVNS applications can be used for improving general health and wellness. afVNS should not be used in certain situations such as during pregnancy or in persons with active implants (e.g. cochlear implants, vagus nerve stimulators or pacemakers), cerebral shunts, or applied to sore or disease skin. Users with underlying health conditions affecting the cardiac system should ask their medical doctor whether afVNS is suitable for them. For full use instructions and safety information, please see user manuals.
When should I use afVNS therapy?
afVNS is a self-applied daily application that can be used in the comfort of your own home or on-the-go. One of the main benefits of afVNS therapy is its accessible use in daily activities. Our technology is engineered to help users maintain their independence and to receive therapy at their convenience e.g. during study, reading or even meetings. However, afVNS should not be used when operating vehicles, heavy machinery or during any dangerous task that requires your full attention.
When should I expect to see the benefits of afVNS therapy?
Users of NX08 wearable exhibit benefits in as early as 2 weeks. As with any type of therapy, the benefits can vary between individuals. afVNS is not an acute (short-term) therapy and may need several weeks for progressive improvements to be seen. What is important is the consistent use of the therapy for achieving the best results.
How often do I need to apply afVNS therapy?
Application of afVNS varies by health condition, but it is typically used daily, with session duration ranging from 1 to 4 hours per day.
What are the side-effects of afVNS therapy?
Side effects with afVNS therapy are uncommon. Minor issues may include local effects at the stimulation site on the ear, such as skin irritation (redness or itchiness), which can be managed with readily available over-the-counter skin creams. In rare cases, side effects related to vagus nerve response—such as headache, nausea, or dizziness—may occur. If these arise, it is advised to stop therapy for that day.
Do I need to purchase the device items separately?
This is not needed. Neuropix will send you a starter pack that includes all the items to get started i.e. controller unit with earbud electrodes and electrode gel. You may purchase any additional accessories if you require.
How big is the NX08 controller unit?
The controller unit is smaller and lighter than the average smartphone. The actual size is 12.5 cm (L) x 6.5 cm (W) x 3.3 cm (H) and weighs 118 g. It is designed to be portable and easy to carry.
What is the earbud electrode and how do I use it?
The NX08 earbud electrode is the world's first wireless neurostimulation component, designed for wearable in-ear application. Engineered by our team to deliver gentle electrical pulses, it is seamlessly controlled through the controller unit.
What does afVNS therapy feel like?
When wearing the earbud electrodes, you can start neurostimulation using the controller unit and set the intensity. The sensation should be adjusted to a comfortable level—a noticeable "tingling" feeling—but should never be painful. The optimal intensity may vary between users.
Does afVNS therapy produce a sound?
The earbud electrodes do not produce sound or music. Therapy is delivered through specifically designed electrical pulses that reach the key nerve fibers of the ear for therapeutic neuromodulation.
Do I need a doctor or healthcare practitioner to setup the device?
This is not required. The device is pre-set and ready to use.
Can afVNS therapy be used with my medications?
Yes. One of the main benefits of afVNS therapy is that it can be used alongside medications. Because it is non-pharmacological, it avoids drug-drug interactions.
What is the most suitable device setting for helping with my health condition?
For improving general health and wellness, our technology has been optimized. As a user, you can control the neurostimulation intensity—the electrical output of the earbud neurostimulators—which should be felt as a light "tingling" sensation.
How is NX08 different to a TENS unit?
NX08 uses afVNS to work with key neural pathways rather than against them. Through precise electrode placement, it modulates central and peripheral nervous system pathways to improve health and ease symptoms.
TENS units, by contrast, operate by stimulating local nerves and competing with local sensory nerve fibers to block them. As a result, TENS must be applied directly at the site of pain to block pain or muscle ache.
Does Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) really work?
Drawing on the latest scientific research, wearable applications are effective for general health conditions—including better stress resilience, promoting calm, and improving sleep.
The neurostimulation is not felt. What should I do?
First, remove the earbud electrodes from your ears and restart the device. Re-check the connectivity status of the earbud electrodes. If connectivity has been lost, follow the instructions for re-connecting them to the controller unit before proceeding.
Gently wipe down the earbud electrodes with a hand wipe and dry with a tissue. Re-apply a thin layer of electrode gel to the electrode tips, then place them in the ear. You can then start stimulation and slowly adjust the intensity using the controller unit until the sensation is lightly felt.
Will my data be shared?
We value your privacy, and your personal information is always stored securely. You have the option to share your therapy information with your local healthcare provider through your smart device. Anonymous data may be used for our research, but your personal information will never be shared without your consent.
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