The Future of Brain-Computer Interfaces

Operating a drone, playing video games, or controlling a robot simply by thinking are exciting applications of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) that pave the way for more mind-bending breakthroughs. Crucially, BCIs, which enable the brain to exchange signals with an outside device, also represent a powerful tool to restore movement, speech, touch, and other functions to patients with brain damage. Despite recent progress in the field, technological innovation is needed and plenty of scientific and ethical questions remain unanswered. Still, researchers say BCIs hold great promise for patients with the most severe impairments-and that major breakthroughs are within reach.