Researchers at UC San Francisco developed a technology that enabled a man with severe paralysis to communicate in full sentences. This is the first successful demonstration of direct decoding of full words from the brain activity of someone who is paralyzed and cannot speak.
The device is unique in that it works by translating signals from the brain to control muscles of the vocal tract, rather than signals to move the arm or hand. It then types the words on the screen.
The approach taps into the natural and fluid aspects of speech, resulting in more rapid and organic communication.
This development promises that one day millions of people, who lost the ability to speak due to stroke, accident, or disease, will be able to communicate fully again.
Additionally, the ability to interact with devices directly through thoughts could, in the future, lead to a world where keyboards, screens, and other interfaces become entirely obsolete. In fact, one day, we might even be able to communicate with one another telepathically, using just thoughts directly.
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