Controlling the robotic arm or talking to AI just with your thoughts is now a reality because of the new advancement made by a Chinese startup called NeuroXess. Their latest brain-computer interface (BCI) is trying to help the people with disabilities by making it easy for them to interact with the world using thought-to-text technology. The technology translates the brain waves (thought) into speech in real time, and with further developments, they were able to control the robotic arm with these signals. This opened new possibilities of hands-free communication between user and robot.
This new BCI allows the user to interact with an AI model and control a digital avatar; this was done by implanting a 256-channel, flexible BCI into an epileptic patient's brain by neurosurgeons from Huashan Hospital. The device picks up the signals from the specific area that is responsible for the movement and sensory processing and then sends that information to analyze the thoughts and actions. The patients were able to play table tennis and other computer games within 48 hours after surgery and were able to use XessOS, NeroXess’ brain computer operating system, and smartphone apps like WeChat within two weeks. To enhance the functionality, they integrated this technology into smart home and wheelchair systems, which helps them to operate simple tasks like movement inside the home and operating appliances.
The new BCI accurately decoded 71% speech showcasing significant progress in the BCI technology. This technology provides new hope for people suffering from paralysis and other medical conditions, thus bridging the gap between thought and action. The company aims to improve the lives of people who are struggling with disabilities, those who have speech or motor function issues. These developments suggest that BCI technology has a huge potential to advance the healthcare system and improve the lives of people with disabilities.
