Cybersecurity_MedicalDevices
Scientists have developed a device that they say can instantly “lift” an individual's mood. Pictured: the inside of a simple serial port device, which reportedly can be manipulated to affect the functioning of some insulin pumps. Reuters

Researchers have created a wearable device that they say can manipulate the human brain to feel either energized or calm. The device is regarded as the world's first “digital drug.”

The device, called Thync, is worn on the frontal lobe of its user's forehead. It is interconnected to a second pad, which is placed at the back of the head. The second pad is positioned depending on whether the user wants to feel calm or energized. The Thync device is then connected via Bluetooth to a device application installed either on a smartphone or tablet. The app lets user control the intensity and length of the session as the device works on the mode selected by its user.

According to Gizmag, each programmed mode in the device has its own control of intensity in terms of peaks and valleys. However, the user can control the intensity manually as well. The calming mode takes around 5 minutes to take effect. In addition, there are three different energizing modes that can last 5 to 10 minutes.

The Economic Times reports that the product uses "low levels of pulsed electrical energy to signal specific neural pathways, allowing users to dial up or dial down their stress responses and energy levels."

Thync costs around $299 and is marked as perfectly safe for human use. Since the product is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it is not being marketed as a medical device. Thync, approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), is being marketed as a lifestyle consumer product.