ALS Patient Tweets “Hello, World!” Using Brain Implant
Philip O’Keefe, an Australian man with ALS, has become the first person to tweet using only his thoughts.
O’Keefe received an endovascular Stentrode brain computer interface (BCI) in April 2020, which allows him to control digital devices with his mind.
In a tweet on December 25, 2022, O’Keefe wrote, “hello, world!” He used the hashtag #HelloWorldBCI to share his experience with the world and offer inspiration for the future.
O’Keefe’s tweet is a significant milestone for the field of BCI research. It shows that BCIs have the potential to restore independence and communication for people with ALS and other paralyzing conditions.
How does the Stentrode BCI work?
The Stentrode BCI is implanted in the brain through the jugular vein. It contains a small chip that records electrical signals from the brain. These signals are then sent to a computer, which converts them into commands that can be used to control digital devices.
The Stentrode BCI is designed to be user-friendly and dependable. Patients can learn to use it in a matter of weeks.
What are the benefits of the Stentrode BCI?
The Stentrode BCI can help people with ALS to regain a degree of independence. They can use it to control their computers, phones, and other devices. They can also use it to communicate with their loved ones.
The Stentrode BCI could also be used to help people with other paralyzing conditions, such as spinal cord injury and stroke.
What are the limitations of the Stentrode BCI?
The Stentrode BCI is still in its early stages of development. It is not yet clear how long it will last or how effective it will be in the long term.
The Stentrode BCI is also not a cure for ALS. It cannot stop the progression of the disease.
What is the future of BCI research?
BCI research is rapidly advancing. Scientists are working on developing BCIs that are more powerful, more user-friendly, and more durable.
BCIs have the potential to revolutionize the way we treat a wide range of neurological conditions. They could help people with ALS, spinal cord injury, stroke, and other paralyzing conditions to regain their independence and quality of life.
More information on BusinessWire here.
