CyberKinetics' BrainGate enables thought-control
posted October 20th 2004 7:00AM
King of brings new meaning to "What will they think of next?" now
that CyberKinetics have developed BrainGate, a device that allows people to control computers entirely by their
thoughts. Using a small chip with 100 neuron sensors, BrainGate has allowed a 24 year-old quadriplegic man to
check email and play videogames using his thoughts. With a little chip that goes in one's noggin, the device can read
brain activity at the neuron level, a first of its kind. Because of this level of interaction, the "installed"
individual can control an electronic device while doing something else at the same time. So the next time you see a
quadriplegic complaining about being asked to do too much, point out the multitasking 24-year old with BrainGate, so he
had better get off his lazy paralyzed ass.
So...when I hack your BrainGate, do I have a personal slave?
I shall control my own robot slave army to take over the world... Until I accidently think of porn or something.
... those upgrades are gonna *hurt*
Olaf/Troy:
No, and even as a 'mental mouse' the chip doesn't perform that well. Other reports have claimed it fairly primitive technology as far as practical application is concerned (note that he can't respond to those emails unless he's got a java keyboard or a similar virtual input device).
Pixel:
There are no nerves in the brain. Cracking the skull on the other hand...