Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is making waves in the medical field, particularly for patients with severe neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Neurotech firm Synchron has partnered with OpenAI to introduce mind-controlled communication for paralyzed individuals, revolutionizing the way they interact with the world.
By incorporating OpenAI’s GPT models into their brain-computer interface (BCI) system, Synchron has enabled paralyzed patients to send messages using only their thoughts. This breakthrough technology allows for more natural and real-time human-AI interactions, crucial for individuals with neurological disorders to convey complex and context-aware responses.
In a recent demonstration, an ALS patient named Mark used Synchron’s BCI to communicate with his doctor, book appointments, and describe his pain levels solely through his thoughts. Mark expressed his optimism for the future, stating that this technology gives him hope of maintaining connections with loved ones even as his disease progresses.
Founded in 2012, Synchron is at the forefront of developing implants that facilitate direct brain-computer interaction. Their minimally invasive procedure involves inserting the implant through the jugular vein and guiding it to a blood vessel on the motor cortex’s surface. Once implanted, the device wirelessly transmits motor intentions from the brain, empowering paralyzed users to control various devices.
In comparison, Neuralink, founded by Elon Musk, utilizes a more intricate surgical method involving the placement of a chip in the brain area responsible for movement intentions. Recently, Neuralink showcased its first human subject, Noland Arbaugh, a paralyzed man who successfully controlled a computer cursor and played games using only his mind.
These advancements in neurotechnology hold immense promise for enhancing the quality of life for individuals with severe motor impairments. By providing new avenues for communication and interaction, technologies like Synchron’s BCI and Neuralink’s brain implants are paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible future for those with neurological disorders.
