In recent weeks, it was reported that Elon Musk’s company Neuralink has successfully implanted a brain-computer interface (BCI) in a human subject. The BCI, called Telepathy by Musk, is part of the company’s aim to create a new way for people, especially those with conditions like paralysis, to interact with devices.
Neuralink explains that the implant works by capturing and transmitting neural activities from the brain wirelessly to an app, which then interprets these activities into specific actions on a device.
This is one example of alternative control methods created for differently-abled individuals to improve independence through assistive technology, especially in an increasingly digital world.
Another example is eye trackers, which allow individuals with limited mobility to use a computer using only their eyes. Eye tracker providers include Tobii Dynavox, myGaze, and Zyteq.
In Sweden, a study revealed that 96% of adults with severe physical and communication impairments utilize eye tracking technology when interacting with a computer.
These trackers use cameras placed on top of a computer screen to track the user’s eye movements and interpret them into interactions such as clicks and keyboard inputs.
Former NFL player Tim Green, diagnosed with ALS, wrote a bestselling novel entirely with an eye tracker and a specialized tablet keyboard which indicates the capabilities of this technology.
Stephen Hawking also utilized eye tracking technology with a speech synthesizer, and recent advancements include head-mounted trackers for improved accuracy and compatibility with webcams.
Microsoft has integrated native support for eye trackers in Windows 10 and 11, as well as accessibility features for low vision users.
Additionally, users with limited mobility can use native speech-to-text dictation and voice commands. Other features such as screen readers and high-contrast themes are also available.
Similar accessibility options are available on MacOS, iOS, and Android, including recent additions to iOS 17 such as Point and Speak and Live Speech which open new communication possibilities.
Foot pedals and adaptive accessories offered by Microsoft can serve as solutions for limited upper-body mobility when combined with assistive technology.
For speech disabilities, there are paid and free text-to-speech options that allow individuals to communicate in voice chat programs and games.
Both Microsoft and Sony have developed customizable controllers for individuals with mobility limitations, while AI technology has the potential to revolutionize assistive technology for those with disabilities.
Last year, a woman named Ann Johnson, who had become paralyzed after a stroke, received a brain implant that allowed her to communicate verbally through a digital avatar created in her likeness. This shows the potential of AI for those with disabilities.
