Control Bionics
Control Bionics develops non-invasive, sEMG-based wearable AAC devices and speech-generating systems that restore communication for individuals with ALS, cerebral palsy, brain injury, and other conditions, serving thousands of users across Australia, the US, and Canada via hardware sales and insurance/NDIS funding channels.
- Company typePublic
- Founded2006
- HeadquartersMilford, United States
- Headcount11–50
- GTM typeB2C
- OfferingHardware or Manufacturing
What Control Bionics does
Control Bionics Limited (ASX: CBL) is a publicly listed neurotechnology company founded in 2006 and headquartered in Milford, Ohio (US operations) with its parent entity domiciled in Australia. The company develops and commercializes non-invasive AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) devices built on a proprietary neural-signal platform that captures surface electromyography (sEMG) bioelectric signals and 3D spatial movements, converting them into device control commands and speech-generating outputs for individuals with ALS/MND, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, spinal muscular atrophy, and other neurodegenerative or complex physical conditions.
The core product portfolio centers on the NeuroNode wireless wearable sensor and its derivative speech-generating systems: NeuroNode Trilogy (multimodal: touch + eye gaze + EMG/spatial control, with up to 47% faster communication than eye gaze alone), NeuroNode Duo (touch + EMG), EyeGaze Duo (eye gaze only), UNO Touch (entry-level AAC device), and Cosmos Connect (portable multi-function controller). Supporting offerings include DROVE (autonomous wheelchair navigation), NeuroStrip (sports performance), the ChatCrackers AI storytelling application, and accessories including mounting systems. The platform integrates with leading AAC software (Grid 3, MindExpress, Avaz, Predictable), iOS and Windows operating systems, Apple-approved assistive technology frameworks, the Apple BCI HID protocol, and Tolt Technologies Ability Drive for wheelchair control.
Control Bionics generates revenue primarily through hardware sales of speech-generating devices ($3,200-$20,875 AUD per unit), supplemented by bundled one-time communication software licenses, rental and lease arrangements (3-month rental with buyout, 12-month lease), professional services including device setup and clinical support, and funding navigation services. The company operates across Australia, the United States, Canada, and other regions, distributing through NDIS-registered provider status in Australia, Medicare/Medicaid/private insurance channels in the US (with HCPCS Level II code E2513 effective October 2024), an exclusive US joint venture with NextLevel Assistive Technology, a pilot with Tobii Dynavox, a global distributor and partner portal network, and a Help Hope Live nonprofit fundraising referral partnership. The company holds FDA, TGA, and CE regulatory clearances and maintains HIPAA-compliant data practices.
Control Bionics firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Control Bionics
- Legal name
- Control Bionics
- Website
- http://www.controlbionics.com
- Company type
- Public
- Founded year
- 2006
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 11–50 employees
- Short description
- Control Bionics develops non-invasive, sEMG-based wearable AAC devices and speech-generating systems that restore communication for individuals with ALS, cerebral palsy, brain injury, and other conditions, serving thousands of users across Australia, the US, and Canada via hardware sales and insurance/NDIS funding channels.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Control Bionics industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Assistive Communication Devices (AAC)
- NAICS
- Electromedical and Electrotherapeutic Apparatus Manufacturing (334510), Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing (33451)
- SIC
- Electromedical & Electrotherapeutic Apparatus (3845), Surgical & Medical Instruments & Apparatus (3841), Computer Peripheral Equipment, Nec (3577), Orthopedic, Prosthetic & Surgical Appliances & Supplies (3842)
- akta.pro primary industry
- AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication) Devices, Apps & Training (EDAKAIAB)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Assistive & Accessibility Input Devices (Switches, Adaptive Controllers, Braille Keyboards) (HDACAFAL), Rehabilitation Therapy Equipment (PT/OT Modalities, Exercise & Balance Devices) (HLAHAMAG)
Keywords
Where Control Bionics is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Milford
- HQ country
- United States
- HQ region
- North America
Offices1 record
Markets served
Control Bionics business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2C
- Offering type
- Hardware or Manufacturing
- Cost components
- Technology or R&D, Personnel, Supply Chain, Marketing or Sales, Operations
Revenue model
- AAC Device and Hardware Sales: Sale of speech-generating devices and neural-signal hardware including NeuroNode Trilogy, NeuroNode Duo, EyeGaze Duo, NeuroNode sensor, UNO Touch, Cosmos Connect, and accessories. Devices are available for purchase, rental (3 or 6 months with buyout option), or 12-month lease (NeuroNode Trilogy). Hardware sales are the primary revenue driver.
- Communication Software Licenses: Full communication software licenses (e.g., Grid 3) are bundled with device purchases. Software provides symbol-based, text-based, phrase/sentence, and letter/word communication tools.
- Professional Services and Clinical Support: Charges for device installation and setup by product specialists, ongoing clinical support, training for users and caregivers, and AAC funding advocacy services. NDIS report preparation support and insurance funding navigation are provided through internal dedicated funding teams.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid | Multi-year contract | NeuroNode Trilogy System — 3-month rental with buyout option |
| One time/ perpetual license | Pay-as-you-go | NeuroNode Trilogy System — Purchase |
| Subscription | Multi-year contract | NeuroNode Trilogy System — 12-month Lease |
| Hybrid | Multi-year contract | NeuroNode Duo — 3-month rental with buyout option |
| One time/ perpetual license | Pay-as-you-go | NeuroNode Duo — Purchase |
| Hybrid | Multi-year contract | EyeGaze Duo — 3-month rental with buyout option |
| Hybrid | Multi-year contract | UNO Touch — 3-month rental with buyout option |
| Other | Pay-as-you-go | NeuroNode (standalone sensor) — US HCPCS billing |
Go-to-market motion3 records
Distribution channels6 records
Marketing channels7 records
Control Bionics product offering
Product offeringCore offering
Control Bionics develops and sells a portfolio of non-invasive, EMG-based speech-generating devices (AAC systems) that convert bioelectric muscle signals, eye movements, or touch into speech and device control for individuals who have lost the ability to speak or have complex physical access needs. Core products include the NeuroNode wireless wearable sensor, the NeuroNode Trilogy multimodal speech-generating system, NeuroNode Duo, EyeGaze Duo, UNO Touch, Cosmos Connect, and the DROVE autonomous wheelchair module, sold with full communication software, accessories, and clinical support services.
Product overview
Control Bionics delivers a portfolio of neurotechnology products centered on its proprietary Neural-Signal Platform, which captures physiological EMG (electromyography) data non-invasively and converts it into actionable device control and communication outcomes. The core product line is the NeuroNode ecosystem of AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) speech-generating devices: the NeuroNode wireless wearable EMG sensor serves as the foundational access technology, which powers the NeuroNode Trilogy System (multimodal: touch + eye gaze + EMG), NeuroNode Duo (touch + EMG), EyeGaze Duo (eye gaze only), and UNO Touch (accessibility-focused speech-generating device) — all available in Windows and iOS configurations. Supporting products include Cosmos Connect (portable multi-function controller), DROVE (autonomous wheelchair navigation), NeuroStrip (sports performance), and the AI-powered ChatCrackers storytelling application. The portfolio spans assistive communication (for ALS, cerebral palsy, SCI, TBI), rehabilitation, sports performance, and research applications, with regulatory clearance in the US (FDA), Australia (TGA), and Europe (CE).
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- NeuroNode: Wireless, wearable sensor that allows users to control devices using bioelectric signals or spatial movements for assistive communication
- NeuroNode Trilogy
- NeuroNode Duo
- EyeGaze Duo
- UNO Touch
- NeuroStrip
- Cosmos Connect
- Oskol 2
- DROVE
- The Block
Products and services
- NeuroNode The NeuroNode is a wireless, wearable sensor that uses bioelectric EMG signals or 3D spatial awareness to give users control over technology. It interprets the smallest muscle signals, allowing individuals with limited motor control to access computers, phones, tablets, and AAC devices. Attaches non-invasively with adhesive or non-adhesive electrode and NeuroNode band.
- NeuroNode Trilogy System A multimodal speech-generating device combining touch control, eye gaze control, and NeuroNode EMG/spatial sensing in a single system. Available in Windows and iOS configurations. Provides three access methods for faster and less fatiguing communication for individuals with ALS, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, and brain injury.
- NeuroNode Duo A speech-generating device combining touch control and NeuroNode EMG sensor, providing flexible dual-mode access. Available in Windows and iOS (10.9-inch or 12.9-inch iPad) configurations, it offers expanded communication possibilities for users who benefit from muscle-signal-based switching alongside touch input.
- EyeGaze Duo An eye gaze-based speech-generating device allowing users to control devices using their eyes. Users can upgrade to the NeuroNode Trilogy by adding a NeuroNode sensor for combined eye gaze and EMG access.
- UNO Touch A lightweight, rugged speech-generating device for people with communication disabilities, available in Windows and iOS versions. Features a detachable external wireless speaker, 8-hour battery life (speaker: 15 hours), and compatibility with multiple communication software programs.
- Cosmos Connect A small, portable device enabling users to play video games, activate switches, drive independently, and check text messages using a single NeuroNode. Serves as the platform for the ChatCrackers AI application.
- DROVE Autonomous Wheelchair Module The world's first autonomous driving wheelchair module. Allows users to independently navigate their home environment by selecting pre-defined destinations on their AAC device, removing the need to manually steer through tight corridors and doorways. Supports multiple access methods including AAC selection.
- NeuroStrip A neural-signal capture device for sports performance applications, providing muscle-level bioelectric insights to optimize athletic performance and recovery. Showcased at PEAK 2026 conference.
- ChatCrackers AI Application An AI-powered application built on the Cosmos Connect platform. Provides storytelling and picture-creation activities for AAC users using switch access (including NeuroNode) in an errorless, engaging way. The AI generates custom images and narratives based on user selections, enabling creative self-expression for individuals with complex physical needs.
- Oskol 2 Eye Gaze Device A speech-generating device designed exclusively for the 13-inch iPad Air, powered by Hiru, the world's first multiplatform eye-tracker. Part of the next-generation eye gaze communication product line.
- Funding Navigation Services Internal funding team guides users and professionals through Medicare, Medicaid, NDIS, and private insurance processes for obtaining AAC device funding. Includes assistance with assistive technology reports, NDIS plan navigation, and ALS Association grant applications.
Quantifiable outcome
- Up to 47% faster communication compared to traditional eye gaze alone through multimodal sensing on the NeuroNode Trilogy
- +3 more outcomes
Companies that use Control Bionics
Customer profileNamed customers9 records
Segments5 records
Ideal customer profiles4 records
Control Bionics technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Integration11 records
AI capability3 records
Feature7 records
Control Bionics partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
Four partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.
- NextLevel Assistive TechnologycoreExclusive US joint venture for manufacturing and distributing iOS-based speech-generating devices. The JV targets the growing US AAC market and aims to sell between 1,000 and 1,500 devices annually within a market valued at USD 100–150 million. The company continues efforts to expand its US presence through this strategic partnership despite current financial challenges.
- ApplecoreControl Bionics adopted Apple's Brain-Computer Interface Human Interface Device (BCI HID) protocol across its NeuroNode and NeuroNode Trilogy product lines for iOS-based AAC tools. The integration reduces setup complexity, improves neural signal feedback, and enables automatic Switch Control activation on iOS devices. Beta released to existing customers.
- Help Hope LiveminorHelp Hope Live is a nonprofit that partners with Control Bionics clients to start community-based medical fundraising campaigns for unmet medical expenses including AAC devices. Donations are tax-deductible, verified for medical diagnosis, and administered by Help Hope Live, meaning funds typically won't count against client asset-based benefits.
- Apple (as listed assistive technology partner)coreNeuroNode was listed as a third-party assistive technology device on Apple's official website, making it part of Apple's Apple-approved assistive technologies. This listing provides users and clinicians confidence that NeuroNode meets Apple's standards for assistive technology integration.
Scale indicators7 records
Recent moves7 records
Expansion highlights6 records
Control Bionics competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- Tobii Dynavox: Market-leading AAC and eye-gaze communication device vendor, part of Tobii AB. Directly comparable as a speech-generating device supplier serving the same ALS, CP, and pediatric AAC end markets, and currently a pilot channel partner for NeuroNode sEMG technology in the US.
- PRC-Saltillo: Leading US-based AAC device manufacturer offering the ChatPlus, TouchChat, and WordPower app ecosystem across iOS-based speech-generating devices. Directly competes in the same AAC funding and clinical workflow that Control Bionics targets through its NextLevel JV.
- Lingraphica: US AAC device and apps manufacturer focused on aphasia and adult speech-generating needs. Competes in the same Medicare/Medicaid-funded AAC segment with its TalkPath Therapy and dedicated speech-generating tablets.
- Smartbox Assistive Technology: UK-based AAC vendor behind the Grid 3 communication software, which Control Bionics bundles with NeuroNode devices. A direct peer through Grid 3's installed base and complementary AAC hardware (e.g., Grid Pad).
- Tolt Technologies: Maker of the Ability Drive powered-wheelchair control system, which integrates with NeuroNode Trilogy for eye-gaze-based wheelchair driving. Overlaps in the AAC-plus-powered-mobility niche and shares the same end-user population.
Broad incumbents
- Rehadapt: Established manufacturer of mounting systems for AAC devices, eye-gaze cameras, and assistive technology peripherals. Comparable as an ecosystem enabler whose VESA mounting hardware Control Bionics sells alongside its eye-gaze products.
- Ablenet: US assistive technology manufacturer of switches, AAC devices, and environmental controls. Comparable as a broad AAC and switch-access incumbent whose single-switch scanning ecosystem overlaps with NeuroNode's switch-control positioning.
Regional players
- Zyteq: Australian AAC and assistive technology distributor and reseller with deep NDIS and Australia-specific clinical relationships. Comparable as an Australia-headquartered AAC peer and a regional channel overlap with Control Bionics' home market.
Emerging players
- Inclusive Technology: UK-based assistive and AAC technology vendor offering eye-gaze devices and communication apps for special-needs education. Comparable as a fellow niche AAC vendor targeting schools and special-education settings similar to Control Bionics' education segment.
- Forbes AAC: US-based AAC app and speech-generating device developer (e.g., Forbes AAC apps on iPad) competing in the same lightweight, iOS-centric AAC category that Control Bionics addresses through its NextLevel JV and Oskol 2 devices.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat5 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights6 records
Customer concentration
Control Bionics social profiles
Digital presenceControl Bionics compliance and trust
Trust signalCompliance6 records
Control Bionics financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Control Bionics leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles5 records
Control Bionics subsidiaries and ownership
Company hierarchySubsidiaries2 records
Control Bionics funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds4 records
Investors1 record
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Control Bionics M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A1 record
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Control Bionics
What does Control Bionics do?
Control Bionics develops and sells a portfolio of non-invasive, EMG-based speech-generating devices (AAC systems) that convert bioelectric muscle signals, eye movements, or touch into speech and device control for individuals who have lost the ability to speak or have complex physical access needs. Core products include the NeuroNode wireless wearable sensor, the NeuroNode Trilogy multimodal speech-generating system, NeuroNode Duo, EyeGaze Duo, UNO Touch, Cosmos Connect, and the DROVE autonomous wheelchair module, sold with full communication software, accessories, and clinical support services.
Is Control Bionics a public or private company?
Control Bionics is a public company. It is classified as public and is currently operating.
When was Control Bionics founded?
Control Bionics was founded in 2006. It employs 11 to 50 people.
Where is Control Bionics based?
Control Bionics is headquartered in Milford, United States, in the North America region.
How does Control Bionics make money?
Three revenue lines are on record. AAC Device and Hardware Sales are the primary driver. The others are communication Software Licenses and professional Services and Clinical Support.
Who are Control Bionics's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are Tobii Dynavox, PRC-Saltillo, Lingraphica, Smartbox Assistive Technology and Tolt Technologies. Broad incumbents are Rehadapt and Ablenet. Zyteq is listed as a regional player. Emerging players are Inclusive Technology and Forbes AAC.
Does Control Bionics have an API?
No public API is recorded for Control Bionics.
What industry is Control Bionics in?
Control Bionics's product category is Assistive Communication Devices (AAC). Its primary akta.pro industry code is EDAKAIAB, AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication) Devices, Apps & Training, with a secondary code of HDACAFAL, Assistive & Accessibility Input Devices (Switches, Adaptive Controllers, Braille Keyboards). Its NAICS code is 334510 and its SIC code is 3845.