Have you ever heard of a brain-computer interface? Well, it can be briefly explained as a system that connects the human brain to an external device in order to direct neural signals to perform a specific activity, such as moving the mouse cursor on a computer screen, or even making phone calls and opening various applications on a smartphone. It seems that Apple is determined to introduce a new control method for interacting with IPhone This time we will be able to use the Apple smartphone via mind control, not touch.
Control iPhone with your mind
Apple plans to let users automatically control iPhones, iPads, and other devices using brain signals later this year, 2025.
This new feature comes as part of a partnership between Apple and neurotechnology startup Synechron, which is developing an implantable brain-computer interface (BCI) device called Stentrode.
Stentrode enables users with severe motor disabilities, such as those caused by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), to control Apple devices using neural signals detected within blood vessels located above the brain's motor cortex.
Stentrode device specifications
To mentally control an iPhone, the Stentrode must be implanted through the jugular vein and nestled within a blood vessel on the surface of the brain. The device contains 16 electrodes that can detect movement-related brain activity without the need for open brain surgery. These neural signals are then translated into digital commands that enable users to interact with the interface smoothly and quickly.
To date, Synechron has implanted the device in ten patients since 2019 under an FDA exemption for the use of experimental devices.
One test participant with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) was able to use the Vision Pro glasses and devices. Camel Others are done by thinking alone, although it is slower than traditional input mechanisms.
Conclusion
Synchron's approach differs significantly from that of other companies, such as Neuralink, which is developing a more invasive implant called the N1. Neuralink's device contains more than 1000 electrodes embedded directly into brain tissue, providing a high-resolution stream of neural data. This enables more sophisticated control, including moving a cursor across a screen and typing using mental intent (using the mind to perform a specific action). But overall, if this feature is rolled out, Apple will undoubtedly lead the era of brain-controlled smartphones in the coming years.
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