Brain-computer interface allows fast typing by people with paralysis

In a Stanford-led research report, three participants with movement impairment controlled an onscreen cursor simply by imagining their own hand movements.

Researchers pioneered the algorithms used to decode the complex volleys of electrical signals fired by nerve cells in the motor cortex, the brain’s command center for the movement, and convert them into actions ordinarily executed by spinal cord and muscles.

Check out how the first steps in digitizing thoughts are being done:

Some quotes from the researchers:

“Our study’s success marks a major milestone on the road to improving quality of life for people with paralysis.”

“We’re approaching the speed at which you can type text on your cellphone.”

“We’re achieving communication rates that many people with arm and hand paralysis would find useful. That’s a critical step for making devices that could be suitable for real-world use.”

Sources: Standford, 2045 initiative fb page