A hands-free device that allows people to control computers and smartphones using their tongue has become publicly available in the United States.
Developed by technology company Augmental, the MouthPad is a custom-made mouthpiece designed to provide an alternative way of controlling digital devices for people who may not be able to use a traditional mouse, keyboard or touchscreen.
The device includes a small touchpad that can be controlled with the tongue. Users can combine tongue movements, head movements and sip gestures to move a cursor, click, drag and perform other commands.
The MouthPad connects through Bluetooth and works as a standard input device across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android, meaning users do not need specialised software on each device.
Around 150 people have participated in Augmental’s early access program, including people with spinal cord injuries, quadriplegia, multiple sclerosis and other disabilities affecting hand movement.
After several years of development and testing, Augmental opened public orders for the MouthPad in the US in July 2026. Each MouthPad is individually manufactured using a 3D dental scan and currently costs US$1,400, excluding the cost of the scan.
The MouthPad is not currently available in Australia. However, its public launch is an interesting development in accessible technology, particularly as alternative input methods can give people with disability more choice over how they independently access computers, phones and other everyday technology.
Read more about the MouthPad public launch on the Augmental website.