Brown University Creates First Wireless, Implanted Brain-Computer Interface

From ExtremeTech:

Researchers at Brown University have succeeded in creating the first wireless, implantable, rechargeable, long-term brain-computer interface. The wireless BCIs have been implanted in pigs and monkeys for over 13 months without issue, and human subjects are next.

We've covered BCIs extensively here on ExtremeTech, but historically they've been bulky and tethered to a computer. A tether obviously limits the mobility of the patient, and also the real-world testing that can be performed by the researchers. Brown's wireless BCI allows the subject to move freely, dramatically increasing the quantity and quality of data that can be gathered - instead of watching what happens when a monkey moves its arm, scientists can now analyze its brain activity during complex activity, such as foraging or social interaction. Obviously, once the wireless implant is approved for human testing, being able to move freely - rather than strapped to a chair in the lab - would be rather empowering.

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