Brain Implant Enables Mind Control For Apple’s Spatial Computer

Minimally Invasive Approach to Brain-Computer Interfaces

Rather than removing part of the skull to install a brain-computer interface like Neuralink, Synchron uses electrodes that are introduced through the jugular vein to the motor cortex. Now, this technology has enabled an ALS patient to control the Apple Vision Pro hands-free.

Brain-computer interfaces (BCI) are devices that place electrodes next to certain areas of the brain. They convert electrical activity into signals, which interact with computers and other devices.

These interfaces have enormous potential for transforming the lives of people with spinal cord injuries, motor neuron diseases, and similar conditions. However, this often requires invasive surgery to remove part of the skull. Synchron’s technology takes a different approach.

The Stentrode: A Less Invasive Solution

The company’s Stentrode begins its journey with a “minimally invasive endovascular procedure” that inserts the BCI into the body via the jugular vein. From there, it is directed through the brain’s blood vessels until it reaches the motor cortex. Then, it is expanded so that several electrodes are positioned next to the target brain area.

Once implanted, the device detects and wirelessly transmits motor intent to restore the capability for severely paralyzed people to control personal devices with hands-free point-and-click, according to the company.

At the end of 2021, an Australian ALS patient became the first to text via Twitter (now X) using the system, reconnecting with family and colleagues. Last year, we spoke with Professor Nicholas Opie about the Stentrode technology and patient use following successful Series C funding.

Pioneering Use of Apple Vision Pro

Now, a recipient in the US has become the first person in the world to use an Apple Vision Pro AR/VR headset—launched last June—through a combination of eye tracking and mind control. Users of the system typically interact with the spatial computer using their eyes, voice, and hands to select items and control the interface. However, the loss of upper limb function in the 64-year-old ALS patient made this impossible.

Thanks to the Synchron BCI, the patient has been able to play Solitaire, watch Apple TV, and send text messages by controlling inputs with his direct thoughts. You can watch a video overview of the achievement by clicking on the Businesswire link below.

Future of Human-Computer Interactions

BCI is a platform to reconnect people with injury or disease to the fast-moving consumer technology landscape,” said Synchron founder and CEO, Tom Oxley. “Vision Pro is a powerful system, but it relies on hand gestures to control the UI. We are sending control signals directly from the brain to replace the need for hand gestures. We are moving towards a new Bluetooth standard for Human-Computer Interactions that don’t require touch or speech. This is a critical unmet need for millions of people with paralysis.

Read the oruginal article on: New Atas

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