Mind-controlled computers

Nick Verhaar
Researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute in Berlin and the medical school of Berlin Humboldt University in Germany have developed the Berlin Brain-Computer Interface (BBCI), which makes it possible to type, control and mentally manipulate a cursor on a computer screen.
This technology requires that a user must “plug in” to the computer by wearing an electronic cap that is capable of measuring what is called electroencephalogram brain activity, or EEG.
As it stands, you cannot simply jump onto the BBCI and start typing documents and navigating the internet with your mind. First time users are required to sit through a 20-minute training program to calibrate and customise the BBCI to their individual thought patterns.
From that point forward, the user can then control the computer entirely with their mind by imagining moving their left or right arm.
Not only could such a technology be used for typing documents and controlling a mouse cursor, but it also has the potential to become the ultimate controller for gamers. Imagine you are playing your favourite game online, controlled completely by your mind.
You would not be restricted to the functionality of the keyboard and mouse or joystick, the only restriction as to how good you could become would be your mind.
The BBCI could also be an invaluable tool for paralysed or disabled people as they may not be able to effectively operate computer equipment under normal circumstances.
Technology such as this is still a fair way from becoming readily available for consumers.
However, as it is further developed and the technology becomes more advanced, we can expect to see it pop up in the near future.