Apple's Vision Pro can now be controlled by thought, thanks to Synchron's brain-computer interface technology, opening new possibilities for individuals with mobility impairments.

Revolutionary Mind Control: Apple’s Vision Pro and Synchron’s BCI Technology


Apple has taken a monumental step forward with its latest product, Vision Pro, designed for control through eye and hand movements. In a groundbreaking development, this device can now be operated hands-free, using thought alone, thanks to new brain-computer interface (BCI) technology from US-based developer Synchron.

Pioneering Integration of Brain-Computer Interface and Apple’s Vision Pro


Synchron recently announced a historic achievement: the successful connection of a patient's brain directly to Apple’s augmented and virtual reality device, Vision Pro. This milestone represents the first instance of such an integration, showcasing the potential of BCIs in enhancing human-computer interaction.

The patient, a 64-year-old man with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, has lost the use of his hands due to his condition. However, with Synchron’s neurotechnological implant, he can now control the cursor within the VisionOS interface using only his thoughts. This technology enables him to perform tasks such as playing games, watching television, and sending messages without physical gestures.

Brain-Controlled Interfaces: A New Era of Accessibility


This success highlights the feasibility of directly connecting brain-controlled interfaces to computers, allowing users to bypass traditional gesture controls. The patient’s ability to interact with Apple’s Vision Pro using thought alone demonstrates the transformative potential of BCIs in providing accessibility solutions for individuals with severe mobility impairments.

"Vision Pro is a powerful system, but it relies on using hand gestures to control the user interface. We send control signals directly from the brain to replace the need for hand gestures," said Tom Oxley, founder of Synchron. He emphasized the simplicity and adaptability of their interface, which holds the promise of restoring technological access to those affected by injury or illness.

Future Prospects: Expanding the Horizons of Brain-Computer Interaction


Synchron’s achievement with Vision Pro marks the beginning of a new chapter in human-computer interaction. The company is now focused on developing a new Bluetooth standard for interactions that do not require touch or speech. This innovation aims to address a critical and unmet need for millions of people with paralysis.

Their BCI technology, known as the Stentrode Endovascular Electrode Array, is implanted in a blood vessel on the surface of the neuromotor cortex via the internal jugular vein. This minimally invasive endovascular procedure allows the chip to detect the brain's motor "goals" and wirelessly transmit these signals to control a cursor on electronic devices.

While Synchron's BCI is currently in the experimental stage and approved for research purposes only, its potential applications are vast. The technology promises to revolutionize how people with mobility challenges interact with digital devices, providing them with newfound independence and capability.

Conclusion: A Leap Towards a Thought-Controlled Future


The integration of Synchron's brain-computer interface with Apple’s Vision Pro is a groundbreaking development in the realm of digital accessibility. By enabling thought-controlled operation of electronic devices, this technology offers a glimpse into a future where physical limitations are no longer barriers to digital interaction.

As research and development continue, the prospects for BCIs are boundless, paving the way for innovative solutions that enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Apple’s Vision Pro, combined with Synchron’s pioneering technology, stands at the forefront of this exciting frontier, heralding a new era of human-computer interaction powered by the mind.