While growing up, did you ever dream of a world where your thoughts could go beyond the boundaries of your mind and seamlessly control the devices around you? Perhaps you envisioned a scenario where, while watching a Minecraft YouTube video, you could effortlessly skip that one tiresome ad with the sheer power of your thoughts. Well, the future has arrived, and it’s not just the stuff of childhood fantasies. Welcome to the realm of Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology, where the extraordinary has become a reality, allowing us to tap into the incredible potential of our minds in terms of interacting with the digital world.
The allure of BCI technology began with the idea of controlling machines through thoughts, evoking the sci-fi charm that resonates with our childhood dreams. My fascination traces back to my first time watching the film Matilda, and seeing her wield telekinetic powers–effortlessly toggling lights, flipping book pages, and instilling fear in Ms. Trunchbull. This childhood desire for extraordinary abilities stayed with me. As my childhood contained an unhealthy amount of PopularMMO videos, I remember sitting at my television watching one, when a persistent ad disrupted my viewing. In an attempt to skip it with just a thought, my eyes strained in hopeful anticipation, yet the ad continued–I sheepishly picked up the remote and skipped the ad, and this short moment of embarrassment was shared with none other but myself. While my initial interest in mind-machine connection took a backseat along with that story, it has now managed to reach its peak as I recently delved into the fascinating realm of BCI Technology, which I’m more than excited to share.
BCI technology is a research topic that is quickly growing due to its potential to help people who have mobility difficulties due to conditions such as cerebral palsy, stroke, or spinal cord injury by either replacing or restoring useful functions. Essentially, Brain-Computer-Interfaces capture signals from the brain, figure out what they mean, and then use that information to control devices so they can perform specific tasks–it has been very useful as it enables individuals who cannot speak or use their limbs to communicate or control devices that may assist them. By decoding neural signals associated with language and commands, these BCIs open doors to a world where thoughts are translated into words through devices, enabling individuals to express themselves and communicate their needs effectively.
The first applications of BCIs relate to Locked-In Syndrome by providing a means for communication and interaction for individuals with complete paralysis. Locked-In Syndrome is a neurological condition that is characterized by complete paralysis of voluntary muscles in nearly all parts of the body, however are typically still cognitively aware. These BCIs enable users to convey thoughts and express themselves through brain signals, addressing the communication challenges associated with Locked-In Syndrome.
Another benefit of BCIs is their ability to allow users to receive real-time information about their brain activity–this form of cognitive training is extremely promising for enhancing attention, mitigating anxiety, and improving overall cognitive function.
BCIs come in diverse forms, each tailored to specific needs and applications. Non-invasive BCIs, such as those utilizing EEG, allow for mind-machine communication without the need for surgical procedures. On the other end of the spectrum, invasive BCIs which employ implanted electrodes offer extreme precision, which brings us closer to the seamless integration of mind and machine. While Brain-Computer-Interface is a cool thing to say, it isn’t just about fancy words and technology–it’s about giving power back to people who need it most.
In the realm of mind-meets-machine, Brain-Computer Interfaces are rewriting the script. From childhood dreams of mind-controlled gadgets to the reality of today, BCIs are not just tech; they’re a lifeline to some individuals. The ability to decode and interpret brain signals for communication and control of devices has already proven to be a transformative force. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the field of BCIs is still growing, and the potential of this field along with the numerous challenges ahead are a lot. As scientists continue to explore and refine this technology, there is a huge amount of research, innovation, and collaboration to be done. So while we may not yet have the ability to skip a Youtube ad with a mere thought, the high likelihood of such a thing underscores the exciting potential that lies ahead.
Bibliography:
Kübler, A. (2019, May 29). The history of BCI: From a vision for the future to real support for personhood in people with locked-in syndrome – neuroethics. SpringerLink. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12152-019-09409-4#:~:text=In%20the%201970s%2C%20Jacques%20J,build%20a%20working%20BCI%20(Fig.
Shih, J. J., Krusienski, D. J., & Wolpaw, J. R. (2012, March). Brain-computer interfaces in medicine. Mayo Clinic proceedings. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3497935/
What is BCI?. Cumming School of Medicine. (2023, July 10). https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/research/pediatric-bci/bci-program/what-bci
Super amazing stuff Ferhia! Super proud of you.
Thanks hassy!!