Synchron Shows ALS Patient Controlling iPad with Brain-Computer Interface

Synchron Unleashes the Power of Thought: iPad Control for ALS Patients

Synchron, a leading developer of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), recently released a compelling video demonstrating how patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a devastating neurodegenerative disease, can operate an iPad using only their thoughts. This achievement marks a significant breakthrough, offering these individuals the ability to natively control an Apple (AAPL.O) device without the need for manual, voice, or even eye movement input.

One participating patient, Mark, shared his poignant testimony, stating, "When I lost the use of my hands, I felt like I lost my independence. Now, through this iPad, I can message my family, read the news, and connect with the world just by thinking. It’s given me back a part of my life."

Image from Video Screenshot

How Does It Work?

This groundbreaking project leverages Apple's new device interface protocol, introduced in May. The BCI, such as Synchron's Stentrode implant, translates thoughts into signals that can be used to control devices. These signals are then seamlessly integrated with Apple's iPhones, iPads, and Vision Pro. The Stentrode is implanted through a minimally invasive procedure into a blood vessel in the brain, significantly reducing the risks associated with traditional craniotomies.

"This is the first time globally that a native, thought-driven control of Apple devices has been demonstrated," said Tom Oxley, founder and CEO of Synchron, in a statement. "Mark’s experience is a technological breakthrough and a sneak peek into the future of human-machine interaction, where cognitive input becomes a mainstream control modality."

Capabilities Beyond iPad

Synchron has previously demonstrated the compatibility of its Stentrode implant with Apple's Vision Pro headset, with Mark successfully operating the virtual reality device using his brainwaves.

The Stentrode is a stent-like device implanted in a vein above the motor cortex of the brain. It captures brain signals through electrodes and translates them into clicks on icons on a screen. The iPad operating system then feeds back the content displayed on the screen to the BCI decoding software, optimizing real-time performance and the accuracy of brain movement signals.

Earlier this year, media outlets reported that Apple was collaborating with brain-computer interface startup Synchron to develop technology that would allow users to control iPhones and other devices using brain signals. This technology is expected to help individuals who are unable to use their hands due to severe spinal cord injuries or diseases, such as ALS. Apple plans to release new technical standards later this year to improve the functionality and accessibility of brain-computer interfaces.

Traditionally, brain-computer interface companies have had to trick computers into thinking that the signals coming from their implanted devices are coming from a mouse. Oxley has stated that having a standard specifically designed for brain-computer interface implants will enable greater functionality.

How Does It Compare to Neuralink?

Elon Musk's Neuralink's N1 device is capable of capturing more brain data than the Stentrode because it has over 1,000 electrodes. In addition, its electrodes are implanted inside the brain rather than placed on top of it, resulting in more pronounced effects when signals are translated to mouse clicks or keyboard strokes.

Musk has stated that such implanted devices could not only help people with disabilities but also enhance the mental capabilities of ordinary people, and even enable humans to maintain parity in competition with super-intelligent AI systems.

Synchron has implanted the Stentrode device in at least 10 people since 2019. Morgan Stanley has estimated that approximately 150,000 people in the United States with severe upper limb impairments could be early adopters of brain-computer interface devices. Morgan Stanley anticipates that the first commercial approval for such devices will be obtained in 2030, but Oxley believes Synchron may obtain approval sooner.

The development of BCIs raises important ethical questions about privacy, security, and accessibility. Society must address these concerns to ensure that this technology is used responsibly and beneficially.

The progress made by Synchron represents a significant step forward in the field of brain-computer interfaces, offering hope for individuals with disabilities and opening new possibilities for human-machine interaction.