Caltech researchers crack code to decode thoughts with 79% accuracy
In a breakthrough development, scientists from Caltech have made significant strides in directly interpreting individuals’ thoughts into words with a 79% accuracy rate through brain decoding technology.
According to reports, the T&C Chen Brain-Machine Interface Centre team implanted small devices in specific brain regions of two participants. The devices read signals and translated them in real time to convert thoughts into text without any outward verbalization or movement.
When asked to think of certain words, their internal speech patterns were decoded on the spot accurately at nearly four-fifths success. Some strategies involved silently reading or visualizing objects described by words that were effectively interpreted.
Published in Nature Human Behaviour, the study captured neural activity tied to inner speech within the mind. The researchers focused on the supramarginal gyrus, which is crucial for language understanding and processing.
Notably, the technology functions similarly to other brain-machine interfaces in development, including Elon Musk’s Neuralink. Experts say this could revolutionize assistance for those with speech or communication impairments.
While raising hopes for future applications, the breakthrough has fueled privacy concerns regarding thought surveillance. However, developers emphasize consent and currently benefit those with disabilities.
