Revolutionizing cognitive assessment with newly developed eye-tracking technology

A research group led by Associate Professor Shuko Takeda at Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine has developed a novel technology that objectively evaluates cognitive function through eye-tracking data. To facilitate the clinical implementation of this technology, the group established Ai-BrainScience Inc., an Osaka University-based startup. By combining eye tracking using a tablet’s front-facing camera with proprietary gaze data analysis algorithms, this technology quantifies cognitive function in approximately three minutes. Since this technology is simpler and more accessible than conventional interview-based assessments, it is expected to be widely adopted in various settings, including early dementia diagnosis in hospitals, community health screenings, and driver’s license renewals.

Increasing Dementia Cases and the Demand for Simple Screening

As the global population ages, the rising prevalence of dementia has emerged as a critical social challenge. Current diagnostic procedures rely heavily on interview-based cognitive assessments; however, these methods are often hindered by lengthy administration times and the psychological burden they place on patients. Moreover, without accessible tools for routine monitoring in daily life, detecting the subtle, early signs of cognitive decline remains a significant difficulty for many individuals.

To address these issues, the research group focused on developing a technology that evaluates cognitive function using eye-tracking technology.

Quantifying Cognitive Function through Gaze Analysis: Toward Clinical Implementation

Cognitive assessment based solely on gaze data.

The research group has developed a method to measure cognitive function using eye-tracking technology^*1 that records gaze information on a tablet. By combining this technology with cognitive task videos^*2 designed to assess major cognitive domains such as memory and judgment, they established a system that evaluates cognitive function through gaze data. The procedure only requires subjects to watch an approximately three-minute task video. By analyzing the captured gaze data with a unique algorithm, the team found a high correlation with scores from the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the current gold standard for cognitive testing. These findings demonstrate that this technology has the potential to serve as an effective alternative to conventional assessments.

Since the assessment relies exclusively on visual information, it is minimally affected by language barriers or hearing loss. Consequently, this technology holds significant potential for global application across different countries and languages. Furthermore, the short duration of the test minimizes the physical and mental burden on elderly subjects, ensuring a stress-free experience.

*1 Eye-tracking technology
A technology that uses infrared light or sensors to record gaze points on a screen with high accuracy

*2 Task video designed for cognitive assessment
Videos designed to assess major cognitive domains including memory, judgment, attention, spatial cognition, and orientation.

Bridging Academia and Society: Business Development via University-based Startup

With support from the Program for Creating STart ups from Advanced Research and Technology (START), the research group established the startup Ai-BrainScience Inc. with the aim of socially implementing this technology. Based in the Saito area of Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture, the company is developing both Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) and consumer-grade solutions. The technology enables easy evaluation of cognitive function outside of traditional medical settings by simply installing the application on a standard tablet. In 2023, Ai-BrainScience was featured in the "Forbes Asia 100 to Watch"—a prestigious list of notable startups in the Asia-Pacific region—standing as one of only three companies selected from Japan.

A World where Early Dementia Detection is Accessible to Everyone.

The eye-tracking-based cognitive assessment holds great potential for diverse applications, ranging from diagnostic support in medical institutions to community health check-ups, employee health screenings, cognitive risk assessment for insurance, and driver’s license renewals for the elderly. Furthermore, its language-independent nature offers the possibility of establishing it as an international standard. It is well established that detecting cognitive decline at an early stage and seeking medical intervention can delay the progression of dementia. Therefore, the widespread adoption of a simple, accessible screening method will provide the necessary impetus for individuals to consult specialists, ultimately enhancing the likelihood of extending healthy life expectancy.

The eye-tracking-based cognitive assessment app received regulatory approval as a Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) in 2023. In January 2025, it achieved a historic milestone as the first eye-tracking-based solution in the field of dementia to be covered by public health insurance in Japan. Currently, in partnership with a Japanese pharmaceutical company, the SaMD is being utilized for clinical practice at medical institutions nationwide.

Furthermore, the team is actively driving global expansion. As of 2025, the technology has secured patents in 13 countries and has received regulatory approval as a SaMD in four countries. As a breakthrough technology in the fight against dementia, it is being increasingly adopted both in Japan and internationally.