Brain Breakthroughs: How Brain-Computer Interfaces Are Redefining Human-Tech Interaction

By: Pragun Pudukoli

In the realm of Human-Computer Interaction which aims to improve how people communicate with and utilize technology, few advancements are as groundbreaking as brain-computer interfaces or BCIs. BCIs promise to transform how we interact with devices and enhance human cognition.

What exactly is the field of HCI, and what does it focus on?

Human-Computer Interaction, or HCI, is a multidisciplinary field that explores and researches the design and use of computer technology. This field primarily focuses on the interfaces between users and computers. Hardware and software that facilitate seamless communication between users and computers come under HCI. At its core, HCI focuses on creating interfaces that are intuitive, efficient, accessible, and easy to understand.

One of the fundamental goals of HCI is to improve usability by studying how users interact with technology. Systems that are functional, user-friendly, and easy to learn are much easier to use. HCI also attempts to address accessibility and inclusivity by ensuring that technology can be used by people and users with a wide range of abilities and disabilities.

What are Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs)?

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are technologies that establish a direct communication pathway or link between the brain and external devices, like computer systems. Such an interface translates brain signals into commands that can control computers, prosthetics, or other devices. BCIs allow for more intuitive interactions with technology. BCIs are a subset of HCI. While HCI broadly encompasses different forms of interaction between humans and computers, BCIs specifically focus on establishing direct communication pathways and links between the human brain and computer systems.

The classification of BCIs

BCIs can be classified into different types on the basis of how invasive they are. 

• Invasive: Invasive BCIs require surgery to be implanted. Such BCIs are implanted under the scalp to communicate brain signals. More accurate readings are received in such systems, but such systems have some disadvantages as well. After the surgery, scar tissues may be formed, weakening the signals. Further, the human body may not accept the electrodes, leading to medical complications. 

• Semi-invasive: Such BCIs are implanted inside the skull but rest outside the brain. They produce signals having a better resolution than non-invasive BCIs. Since semi-invasive BCIs are present outside the brain, they have a lower risk of forming scar tissue in the brain.

• Non-invasive: Non-invasive BCIs encompass all the technologies that allow for brain-to-computer stimulation without requiring penetration into the skull. Most non-invasive BCIs rely on electrodes strategically placed onto certain areas of the scalp to record brain activity.

Picture depicting non-invasive BCI where electrodes are strategically placed on the scalp instead of penetrating the skull

Potential applications of BCIs

The potential applications of BCIs are vast, ranging from medical rehabilitation and assistive technology to enhanced cognitive abilities. The possible applications are extensive and transformative.

• Medical Rehabilitation: BCIs could revolutionize the treatment of neurological disorders. For individuals with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, or spinal cord injuries, Neuralink’s technology could offer new ways to manage symptoms or restore lost functions.

• Enhanced Cognitive Abilities: BCIs can enhance cognitive functions. By directly interfacing with the brain, it might be possible to improve memory, learning, and problem-solving capabilities. Such enhancements to the capabilities of an individual have profound implications for education, personal development, and productivity.

• Virtual and Augmented Reality: BCIs can revolutionize our experiences of virtual and augmented reality. Direct brain interfaces can create more immersive and interactive experiences by allowing users to perceive digital elements as seamlessly integrated into their physical surroundings and have control using just their thoughts.

Ethical and societal concerns related to BCIs

The development of such technologies raises several ethical and societal concerns and considerations. Although such technologies offer several advantages to humans, a future where these technologies become much more common also has some downsides.

• Privacy: Direct access to brain activity introduces and raises concerns about the privacy of individuals' thoughts and mental states. Ensuring that neural data is protected from unauthorized access and misuse is a significant challenge but a crucial one that must be overcome.

• Security: The hacking of such devices could have disastrous consequences, like, for example, the manipulation of brain signals. BCIs could potentially influence or control mental processes. Thus, security challenges are present in the domain of BCIs. 

• Long-term effects: The long-term impact of BCIs and brain implants is yet to be fully understood. Such brain implants may affect cognitive function, mental health, and overall well-being.

• Consent: A critical consideration to be kept in mind is that, just like any other medical or technological intervention, the informed consent of individuals is essential. Individuals must understand the risks, benefits, and limitations of BCIs before deciding to proceed with the implementation and use of such technologies. 

Several features offered by BCIs are present in several episodes of the British anthology TV series Black Mirror, which covers advanced technology's dark and dystopian implications, serving as a powerful narrative device to probe complex themes about human consciousness, privacy, and societal impacts.

How is Elon Musk’s Neuralink related to BCIs?

One of the most talked about developments in this domain is Neuralink, an American neurotechnology company founded by Elon Musk in 2016. The company, currently at the forefront of brain-computer interface technology, has garnered significant attention for its ambitious goal of achieving “symbiosis” between the human brain and artificial intelligence. 

Pictures showing the Neuralink brain implant

On the Lex Fridman podcast, Musk recently revealed that the company has successfully implanted its device in a second patient. This device is designed to allow paralyzed patients to use digital devices by thinking alone, Elon Musk. The device has allowed the first patient to play video games, browse the internet, post on social media and move a cursor on a laptop. Controlling a computer cursor with thoughts alone could soon become common. 

Noland Arbaugh, who received the implant in January, also spoke on the Lex Fridman podcast about how the implant changed his life. Before receiving the implant, he used a computer by employing a stick in his mouth to tap the screen of a tablet device. Now, he can merely think about what he wants to happen on the computer screen, and the device makes it happen. The device has helped him become more independent and less reliant on others. 

Conclusion

The advent of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) marks a shift in how we interact with technology. BCIs promise to revolutionize fields ranging from medicine to cognitive enhancement. However, as we advance further into this realm, addressing the accompanying ethical and societal challenges is imperative. Balancing the promises of BCIs with these ethical considerations with care and foresight is crucial for integrating this transformative technology into society in a way that respects individual rights and promotes overall well-being.