In a remarkable technological breakthrough, Apple’s Vision Pro headset can now be controlled solely through thought, thanks to the integration of Synchron’s brain-computer interface (BCI). This innovation, showcased by 64-year-old Mark, a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), exemplifies the potential of BCI technology to transform the lives of individuals with severe physical disabilities.
Mark, who has lost the use of his arms and hands due to ALS, successfully used the Vision Pro to play Solitaire, watch Apple TV, and send text messages, all without the need for hand gestures. The BCI detects motor intent directly from the brain, transmitting these signals wirelessly to the headset. This hands-free interaction opens up new possibilities for those unable to engage with technology through traditional means.
“This is pretty cool, I’ve been wanting to try this for a while now,” Mark said in reaction to using his BCI to watch a video on the Vision Pro. “It’s like watching it in the theater, it really comes to life. Using this type of enhanced reality is so impactful and I can imagine it would be for others in my position or others who have lost the ability to engage in their day-to-day life. It can transport you to places you never thought you’d see or experience again.”
Synchron’s BCI is minimally invasive, implanted via the jugular vein to the motor cortex’s blood vessels. This system captures the brain’s motor signals and relays them to external devices, offering a new mode of communication for paralyzed patients. Synchron’s CEO, Tom Oxley, emphasized the significance of this integration, noting that it provides a platform to reconnect people with disabilities to the fast-paced digital world.
“BCI is a platform to re-connect people with injury or disease back to the fast-moving consumer technology landscape. Vision Pro is a powerful system, but it relies on the use of hand gestures to exert control over the UI. We are sending control signals directly from the brain to replace the need for hand gestures,” said Tom Oxley, CEO & Founder, Synchron, “We are moving towards a new Bluetooth standard for Human Computer Interactions that don’t require touch or speech. This is a critical unmet need for millions of people with paralysis.”
The Vision Pro’s integration with BCI is particularly noteworthy for its application in accessibility. Apple’s iOS platform, known for its robust accessibility features, provides an ideal ecosystem for Synchron’s technology. The company plans to expand its BCI integration to other devices, further enhancing accessibility for users with physical limitations.
This advancement is not just a milestone for Synchron but also a significant step in the evolution of human-computer interaction. The ability to control digital devices through thought alone represents a new frontier in accessibility and interaction. As Synchron prepares for larger-scale clinical studies, the potential applications of this technology extend beyond personal use, hinting at future possibilities in medical, educational, and professional fields.
Note that Synchron is still awaiting broader FDA approval for its technology.
