A significant advance in technology and accessibility has emerged, showcasing the remarkable feat of an individual controlling an iPad using solely brain signals. This extraordinary development involves no physical interaction, no vocal instructions, and no eye tracking—only the power of thought. Mark, who lives with ALS, a condition that severely restricts voluntary movement, has utilized Apple’s innovative brain-computer interface (BCI) along with Synchron’s Stentrode device to operate an iPad purely through his cognitive commands.
Revolutionizing Control: Apple’s iPadOS 26 and a Breakthrough Brain Implant
Recent innovations have transformed tasks as simple as sending texts or navigating the web into achievable activities for individuals with severe mobility challenges. With the integration of a cutting-edge brain implant and Apple’s advanced BCI technology, Mark can now effortlessly open applications, navigate menus, and compose messages solely through his thoughts. This remarkable breakthrough is facilitated by the Synchron Stentrode, a compact device implanted in a vein close to the brain’s motor cortex. It detects neural signals associated with movement and transmits them wirelessly to a decoder positioned outside the body. Subsequently, Apple’s BCI support in iOS 26 interprets these signals, translating them into immediate actions on the device’s screen.
Notably, the minimally invasive design of the Stentrode is particularly compelling, as it is inserted via a blood vessel in the neck, akin to standard stent procedures, thereby avoiding the risks associated with open-brain surgery. This aspect greatly enhances accessibility and safety for patients globally. Dr. Tom Oxley, co-founder of Synchron, remarks that this achievement offers “a glimpse into the future of human-computer interaction.”
This is the first time the world has seen native, thought-driven control of an Apple device in action. Mark’s experience is a technical breakthrough and a glimpse into the future of human-computer interaction, where cognitive input becomes a mainstream mode of control.
Apple’s BCI functionalities are now embedded in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 as part of their accessibility suite, with further developments anticipated later this year. These upcoming developer tools will facilitate the creation of thought-controlled applications across various use cases. While this method may not match the speed of traditional touch or voice commands, its implications for individuals with conditions such as ALS or spinal cord injuries are monumental. This breakthrough represents a significant stride toward a future where operating devices through pure thought may not only be feasible but could also become a commonplace interaction method with technology.
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