Apple's Vision Pro headset has achieved a significant milestone by integrating with Synchron’s brain-computer interface (BCI), allowing users to control the device using only their thoughts. This development was demonstrated by Mark, a 64-year-old ALS patient, who showcased the BCI's capabilities with the Vision Pro.
Mark, who has lost the ability to use his hands due to ALS, managed to navigate the Vision Pro interface to play Solitaire, watch Apple TV, and send text messages entirely through brain control. This integration addresses a critical barrier, as Vision Pro typically relies on hand gestures, which are not feasible for users with limited upper-limb functionality.
Since his BCI implantation in August 2023, Mark has been practicing with the technology twice a week. He reported that using the BCI with the Vision Pro is akin to its use with other Apple devices like the iPhone and iPad. Synchron chose to integrate its BCI with Apple’s ecosystem due to Apple’s renowned accessibility features.
Synchron's BCI enables individuals with severe physical limitations to control digital devices through neural signals. The BCI is implanted via a minimally invasive procedure into a blood vessel on the motor cortex's surface, where it captures motor intent and transmits signals wirelessly to external devices. Tom Oxley, Synchron's CEO and Founder, highlighted the breakthrough:
"Our BCI is designed to connect individuals with injuries or diseases to modern technology without needing touch or speech. Vision Pro's reliance on hand gestures was a limitation we overcame by directly transmitting control signals from the brain. We are advancing towards a new standard in human-computer interaction, crucial for millions with paralysis."
Synchron is gearing up for larger clinical trials and has implanted its BCI in ten patients across the U.S. and Australia. The company is also seeking FDA approval to commercialise its technology.
