Neuralink demonstrated the work of a neuroimplant for restoring speech

Company Neuralink has published a video demonstration of its neurointerface, which allows a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to communicate using a text-to-speech synthesizer. In the video, a patient named Terry uses the implant to control the cursor and type text with the power of thought.

The technology is based on reading the neural activity of the motor cortex of the brain. During the demonstration, the system converts neural signals into commands for the interface, allowing the user to select letters on a virtual keyboard. The text input speed in the current iteration allows the patient to maintain a full-fledged dialogue in real-time.

Earlier, the company received permission to conduct clinical trials on humans to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the device. The main task of the current stage is to minimize the delay between the user's intention and the output of a character on the screen. Engineers are working on decoding algorithms that adapt to the individual patterns of brain activity of a specific patient.

This case confirms the possibility of restoring communication functions in people with severe motor activity disorders. The development of Neuralink continues a series of tests aimed at integrating neurocomputer interfaces into everyday medical practice. In the company's near plans is the expansion of the system's functionality to control external devices, including limb prostheses and smart home systems.