Apple’s Vision Pro headset can now be controlled with just your thoughts, thanks to a partnership with neurotechnology startup Synchron. A 64-year-old man named Mark, who has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), was the first patient to use the technology. He used his brain-computer interface (BCI) to play Solitaire, watch Apple TV, and send text messages without using his hands.
Mark had the BCI implanted in August 2023 and practices using it twice a week. He said that controlling the Vision Pro is similar to using his iPhone, iPad, or computer. Apple’s suite of accessibility features has been recognized for its excellence, which is why Synchron focused on integrating its BCI with Apple devices.
Synchron’s BCI allows people with severe physical limitations to control digital devices with their thoughts. The device is implanted in the blood vessel on the surface of the motor cortex and detects motor intent from the brain. It then wirelessly transmits these signals to external devices, enabling hands-free control.
Tom Oxley, CEO and Founder of Synchron, said that the BCI platform can reconnect people with injury or disease back to the consumer technology landscape. He believes that the Vision Pro is a powerful system, but it relies on hand gestures. With the BCI, they are replacing the need for hand gestures with direct brain control.
Synchron is preparing for larger-scale clinical studies and has already implanted its BCI in 10 patients in the United States and Australia. The company continues to seek approval from the FDA to commercialize its technology.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2024/07/30/vision-pro-can-now-be-controlled-with-brain/