Scientists have developed a brain-computer interface device that can translate thoughts about speech into spoken words in real time. This experimental technology aims to help individuals who are unable to speak, such as those with quadriplegia. The device was tested on a 47-year-old woman who had been unable to speak for 18 years after a stroke. By implanting the device in her brain, researchers were able to convert her intent to speak into fluent sentences.
Unlike other speech BCIs that have delays between thoughts and verbalization, this new device allows for a more natural flow of conversation. Researchers recorded the woman’s brain activity while she silently spoke sentences in her brain, and then used an AI model to translate this neural activity into speech sound units. This approach allows for real-time processing of speech without waiting for sentences to finish.
The implant sits on the speech center of the brain and continuously listens in to translate signals into speech pieces that form sentences. This approach could potentially keep up with the fast pace of natural speech. While more research is needed before the technology is widely available, with sustained investments, researchers believe it could be ready for patient use within a decade. This innovation has the potential to significantly improve communication for individuals who have lost their ability to speak.
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