Scientists have developed a brain-computer interface device that can translate thoughts about speech into spoken words in real time. This experimental device has the potential to help individuals who are unable to speak, such as those with quadriplegia. A recent study tested the device on a woman who hadn’t spoken for 18 years due to a stroke, with promising results.
Unlike other speech-related brain-computer interfaces, this device minimizes delays between thoughts and verbalization, which could improve communication and reduce frustration for users. The device works by recording brain activity while the individual thinks about speaking, translating this neural activity into speech sound using a synthesizer trained by the person’s pre-injury voice.
The device is implanted in the speech center of the brain and processes speech in real time, sending 80-millisecond chunks of speech into a recorder as the person thinks about speaking. This enables the device to keep up with the natural pace of speech and provide a more natural-sounding output. While further research is needed before wide use, the technology could potentially be available to patients within a decade with continued investments.
Overall, this innovative brain-computer interface device shows promise in helping individuals who are unable to speak by translating their thoughts into spoken words in real time, potentially improving their ability to communicate effectively.
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