Scientists have developed a brain-computer interface that can translate thoughts about speech into spoken words in real time. This experimental device could potentially help individuals who are unable to speak, such as those with quadriplegia. In a recent study, a 47-year-old woman with quadriplegia who had lost the ability to speak for 18 years due to a stroke was able to produce fluent sentences using the device. Unlike other brain-computer interfaces for speech, this device has minimal delays, allowing for more natural communication.
The device works by recording the woman’s brain activity while she silently formulates sentences, then translating this neural activity into speech sounds using a synthesizer trained on her pre-injury voice. The implant sits on the speech center of the brain, processing speech on the fly in 80-millisecond chunks. This rapid decoding of speech has the potential to match the pace of natural conversation.
Although further research is needed before the technology can be widely used, the scientists hope that with sustained investments, it could become available to patients within a decade. The device represents a significant advance in the field of brain-computer interfaces for speech and could offer a promising solution for those who are unable to speak due to neurological conditions.
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