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Scientists have made progress in developing a brain-computer
interface (BCI) that translates thoughts about speech into spoken
words in real time, potentially aiding individuals unable to speak. This
experimental device was tested on a 47-year-old woman with
quadriplegia who had not spoken for 18 years due to a stroke. During
a clinical trial, researchers implanted the device in her brain, aiming to
convert her intent to communicate into coherent sentences.
The study, detailed in the journal Nature Neuroscience, highlights that
existing BCIs often experience delays between a person’s thoughts
and the generated speech. These delays can hinder effective
communication. The new approach aims to eliminate such
interruptions. According to Gopala Anumanchipalli, a co-author of the
study, the device operates by translating the user’s neural activity into
speech units in real time, which could enhance the natural flow of
conversation.
Researchers in California recorded the participant’s brain activity while
she silently formed sentences in her mind. Using her pre-injury voice
samples, they trained an AI model to synthesize her speech. The
device is designed to process speech in small segments, transmitting
approximately half a syllable every 80 milliseconds without waiting for
complete sentences.
Experts, including Jonathan Brumberg from the University of Kansas,
have recognized this as a significant advancement in speech
technology. While further research is necessary before the device can
be widely implemented, Anumanchipalli believes that with continued
investment, this technology could be available for patient use within
the next decade. The project has received partial funding from the
National Institutes of Health, although it has not been affected by
recent budget cuts.
