Synchron is developing a BCI that decodes brain signals to allow people with paralysis the ability to control digital devices with their thoughts alone. Recently, the company announced that its BCI can now be used with Alexa without the need for voice or physical interaction with a touchscreen. Synchron is one of several companies, including Elon Musk’s Neuralink, aiming to commercialize BCIs.
Researchers have been studying these interfaces for decades, mostly in university labs, but no company has received regulatory approval to sell one. Synchron has implanted its BCI in six people in the US and four in Australia as part of early-stage studies and is gearing up to begin a larger trial with more participants. Synchron has also connected the BCI to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and the Apple Vision Pro, a mixed-reality headset.
More information:
https://www.wired.com/story/synchron-amazon-alexa-brain-computer-interface-bci/