In a major breakthrough, Synchron, a neurotechnology and medical device development company, has shown the first public demonstration of a person controlling an Apple iPad solely with neural signals. This innovation is made possible by Apple’s latest Brain-Computer Interface Human Interface Device (BCI HID) protocol, which allows devices to recognize brain signals as a form of input.
This is the first time Apple’s operating system has been able to interpret brain signals as a native input. The new BCI HID protocol, announced earlier this year, enables its devices like the iPad and iPhone to recognize neural signals and allow direct brain control.
Synchron’s system uses a small, minimally invasive implant that detects motor intentions from blood vessels inside the brain. These signals are wirelessly sent to an external decoder, which communicates directly with the iPad using Apple’s new protocol. The system also takes advantage of existing accessibility features like Switch Control, making the experience more natural and intuitive.
A New Way to Interact with Technology
The demonstration features a participant in Synchron’s ongoing clinical trial using an implant called the Stentrode. They were able to navigate their iPad, open apps, and send messages — all without using hands, voice, or eyes. Their brain signals are wirelessly transmitted to the device, translating his thoughts into commands.
The entire setup operates in a feedback loop, where the device shares contextual information back with the decoder to improve responsiveness. This creates a smooth, real-time interaction based purely on neural activity.
This demonstration offers a glimpse of what’s possible when brain-computer interface technology is integrated into consumer devices. While initially developed to help those with motor impairments, this development could bring brain-controlled devices to the everyday life for many people.
To learn more and see demonstrations, check out Synchron’s official YouTube channel here.
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