Scientists at the University of Sydney have created a non-invasive AI device that reads brainwaves and converts thoughts into text.
Artificial Intelligence: The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and neuroscience has given rise to a technology that is turning futuristic imaginations into today's reality. Scientists at the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) in Australia have developed a wearable device that can directly translate a person's thoughts into words. This technology is considered particularly useful for people who cannot speak, are paralyzed, or are unable to communicate due to a neurological disorder.
How Does This AI-Powered Device Work?
The most important feature of this device is its Electroencephalogram (EEG) system. The user has to wear a special EEG cap, which captures the brain's electrical waves (brainwaves).
- Data Capture: The EEG cap records the electrical activity of the brain in real-time.
- Data Transfer: This data is transmitted wirelessly to a computer or processing unit.
- AI Decoding: An AI-based Deep Learning model decodes this data and tries to identify what the person is thinking.
- Language Model Refinement: A large language model (such as a GPT-based system) refines these thoughts into correct and clear sentences.
- Output: Finally, what you were thinking appears on the screen as text.
What Stage of Development Has Been Reached?
This technology is currently in its early stages of development. Scientists have trained it based on a limited vocabulary and sentence structure to ensure accurate initial testing. Currently, this device is capable of converting user thoughts into text with approximately 75% accuracy. The goal of the scientists is to increase this accuracy to 90% or higher so that the technology can be put to practical use.
What is a Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) and Why is it Important?
A Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) is a technology that connects the human brain directly to a computer or any digital device. Its purpose is to eliminate the distance between thought and machine.
Many companies around the world are working in this direction today:
- Neuralink (Elon Musk's company): Controlling computers with thoughts by implanting a chip in the brain through surgery.
- Paradromics (USA): Reading neural data with high precision using microelectrodes.
But these technologies require surgery, which makes many people hesitant to adopt them.
What Makes Sydney's Technology Special?
The University of Sydney's technology is completely Non-Invasive. This means that it requires neither surgery nor any kind of chip implant. This device starts working simply by wearing an EEG cap. This feature not only makes it safe but also makes it suitable for widespread use.
Who Will Benefit the Most?
This technology is nothing short of a boon for people suffering from aphonia, paralysis, ALS, stroke, and motor neuron disease.
- People who cannot speak will be able to communicate simply by thinking.
- In the future, it can also be used to communicate directly with augmented reality (AR) and virtual assistants.
- People working in the military, space missions, or extremely noisy areas can also benefit from this.
Future Imagination: From Thought to Technology
The day is not far when you will write text, send emails, or interact in the virtual world simply by thinking. This technology is set to completely change the definition of communication between humans and machines. Researchers believe that in the coming years, it can be integrated with mobile apps, smart glasses, and IoT devices.
