64-Year-Old Man Controls amazon Alexa Using Only His Thoughts

A groundbreaking achievement has been made by a 64-year-old man from California, who has become the first person to control an amazon Alexa using just his brain. This remarkable feat, revealed by New York-based company Synchron on september 17, 2024, showcases a significant advancement in brain-computer interdata-face (BCI) technology. This innovation offers new possibilities for individuals with severe mobility issues or paralysis.

The man, referred to as Mark to maintain his anonymity, has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a condition that causes progressive muscle weakness and loss of control. In august 2023, Mark participated in a clinical study where he received a BCI implant aimed at improving treatments and assistance for his condition. The implant, which was minimally invasive, was introduced by Synchron and is designed to translate brain signals into commands for technology, allowing interaction without physical touch.

How the technology Functions

Mark’s BCI was implanted through a surgical procedure that involved placing the device via the bloodstream at the nape of his neck and positioning it on the motor cortex—the brain region responsible for voluntary movements. This device wirelessly transmits brain signals related to Mark’s intentions, enabling him to interact with his environment despite his ALS.

With this technology, Mark can perform various tasks, including:

• Making video calls
• Playing music
• Streaming shows
• Controlling smart home devices (such as lights and security cameras)
• Shopping online
• Reading books on Kindle

Mark expressed his gratitude for regaining a degree of independence, stating, “To be able to manage important aspects of my environment and control access to entertainment gives me back the independence that I’m losing.”

Synchron’s CEO, tom Oxley, highlighted that this success not only restores some autonomy and meaning for patients like Mark but also marks a step forward for BCI technology. Oxley noted that such advancements could significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with similar conditions.

Synchron is one of several companies working on BCI technologies, with competitors like Elon Musk’s Neuralink also in the field. While many firms have been exploring these interdata-faces for years, Synchron is among the few that have successfully begun human trials. Currently, Synchron has implanted their BCI in ten patients across the U.S. and australia and is preparing for larger trials.