Can a smartphone app boost brainpower in autistic teens?
NCT ID NCT04562688
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study tested a digital app called CICADAS, designed to improve thinking skills in teenagers with autism. Sixty-eight teens aged 11-18 used the app for up to 40 hours, doing exercises that adapt to their ability. The goal was to see if the app is acceptable and easy to use, not yet to prove it works.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
digital cognitive training app (BrainHQ-based CICADAS)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a tool to help teens with autism improve attention, memory, and social thinking.
What could go wrong
This was a small, early-stage study (68 participants) focused on feasibility, not on proving the app works. It may not lead to clear benefits.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55454, United States