A new speech prosthetic offers hope for those with speech-impairing neurological disorders. By converting brain signals into speech using high-density sensors and machine learning, the technology represents a significant advancement over current slower communication aids.
Duke University researchers have created a groundbreaking speech prosthetic that translates brain signals into spoken words, offering hope to people with neurological disorders affecting speech. Current communication tools for such patients are slow and cumbersome, speaking at about half the speed of natural speech due to limited brain sensors. Neuroscientists and engineers, led by Gregory Cogan and Jonathan Viventi, developed a postage stamp-sized implant with 256 microscopic sensors to accurately decode speech-related brain activity. During tests, the device demonstrated 40% accuracy in predicting sounds based on 90 seconds of data, paving the way for future advancements in cordless speech prosthetics.
However, despite promising results, the technology’s widespread availability is still a distant prospect. While the speech prosthetic offers hope for faster communication, it remains slower than natural speech. Researchers are optimistic about the progress made and are actively working on cordless versions of the device, yet significant development is required before it becomes accessible to the public.
Source NeuroScienceNews
