“A patient with ALS in the United States is the first person in the world to use Amazon Alexa via an implantable brain computer interface to interact with and control his environment,” the company said in an official statement.
The man suffers from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). He was able to do several activities like making video calls, play movies, control devices like lights, shop online and read books by using his mind to direct Alexa, according to the New York-based company.
How was this possible?
The patient used the Synchron brain computer interface to select customized tiles that perform pre-set Alexa actions, like turning on and off lights, making video calls, playing music and shows, controlling smart home devices, reading books on Kindle or purchasing items hands and voice-free.
“To be able to manage important aspects of my environment and control access to entertainment gives me back the independence that I’m losing,” the patient has said.
The simple to use and easy to learn system makes it more accessible and improves independence for those living with severe paralysis. “Synchron’s BCI is bridging the gap between neurotechnology and consumer tech, making it possible for people with paralysis to regain control of their environment. While many smart home systems rely on voice or touch, we are sending control signals directly from the brain, bypassing the need for these inputs,” said Tom Oxley, CEO & Founder, Synchron.
How is the implantation done?
The brain computer interface is implanted in the blood vessel on the surface of the motor cortex of the brain through the jugular vein. The implantation is done using a minimally invasive endovascular process. “Once implanted, it is designed to detect and wirelessly transmit motor intent out of the brain, intended to restore the capability for severely paralyzed people to control personal devices with hands-free point-and-click,” the company said.
(With inputs from AFP)
