Thinkie is a neurofeedback-enhanced brain training platform combining a wearable fNIRS-based sensor with a proprietary app to optimize users' cognitive performance. Unlike conventional apps that do not include a sensor, Thinkie measures the brain's prefrontal cortex activity in real time using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). This capability provides immediate visual feedback on neural engagement during training.  

The Thinkie System includes:  

• Thinkie Band: A non-invasive sensor measuring cerebral blood flow via near-infrared light (700–900 nm wavelengths), worn in a comfortable cloth headband
• Thinkie App: Tracks brain activity during screen-based games and non-screen activities (e.g., puzzles, music, etc) via a color-coded feedback system
• Brain Age: Quantifies session performance as an average of neural activity per second, enabling personalized training adjustments 

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What makes the Thinkie System unique  

Thinkie diverges from conventional brain-training apps through three innovations:

1. Real-time neurofeedback  
   • While many apps rely on self-reported progress, Thinkie’s fNIRS sensor objectively measures prefrontal cortex activation, translating oxygenated hemoglobin changes into a visual spectrum (cool = low brain activity, warm = high brain activity)
   • This allows users to:  
     • Adjust strategies mid-activity to maximize engagement
     • Identify which tasks (e.g., Sudoku vs. trivia) elicit optimal neural responses
2. Clinically validated outcomes  
   • Thinkie’s methodology is grounded in research:
     • A 2021 randomized controlled trial (RCT) showed 4 weeks of Thinkie training improved working memory (15%), processing speed (22%), and attention (18%) in young adults
     • A separate Mitsui-sponsored study found significant gains in verbal memory (27%) and composite cognitive function in older adults using Thinkie vs. Tetris
3. Dual training modalities
   • Unlike other apps' screen-only approach, Thinkie supports:
     • Guided gameplay: Preloaded exercises targeting short-term memory, mental speed, prediction, attention-switching, and concentration
     • Activity monitoring: Thinke's Brain Meter mode tracks neural engagement during real-world tasks (e.g., reading aloud, playing a musical instrument, solving puzzles, etc)

How the Thinkie System works

Thinkie’s closed-loop training process combines biometric sensing, adaptive algorithms, and neuroscience principles:

1. Neural activity measurement
   • The Thinkie Band detects hemodynamic responses in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, the cortical region governing executive function
   • Data is streamed to the app via Bluetooth
2. Dynamic feedback loop
   • Visual cues: Screen background and color bar shift from blue (low activity) to purple, gold and pink (high activity)
   • Adaptive difficulty: Games automatically adjust complexity based on performance
3. Off-screen Brain Meter
   • Users validate cognitive impact of real-world activities:
     • Word or math puzzle (e.g., crossword or Sudoku) sessions showing sustained orange/red hues = effective training‍
     • Reading silently with minimal color shift = low neural activation
4. Progress analytics
   • Post-session reports highlight:
     • Peak activation periods
     • Activity-specific efficacy rankings
     • Longitudinal Brain Age trends
5. Science-backed cognitive games
   • Thinkie’s games are co-developed with neuroscientists to target specific functions:

Thinkie's key differentiators from conventional brain training app

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Thinkie’s fusion of biometric validation and dual-modal training redefines brain fitness by grounding improvement in measurable neurophysiological changes, not just behavioral performance.