Chinese researchers are using AI algorithms to translate brain signals into real-time indicators, allowing users to control computer inputs with their mind -- and even control the motion of a wheelchair.
Scientists at Zhejiang University's State Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence are making significant strides in the area, known as brain-computer interface (BCI) technology.
The emerging field holds particular promise for healthcare applications. The Hangzhou-based laboratory is exploring both invasive and non-invasive approaches to help patients with physical disabilities and other conditions.
"Our lab primarily researches brain-computer interfaces, including invasive and non-invasive BCIs. We mainly study how to use artificial intelligence technologies to read and control the brain, and how to achieve mutual enhancement between computers and the human brain," said Wang Jiquan, a research fellow at the laboratory.
The lab has developed wearable EEG headbands capable of monitoring attention levels in real time. During a demonstration with a China Global Television reporter wearing the device, the technology detected an instant drop in concentration when the reporter's focus shifted.
The reporter was also able to sit in a wheelchair and control it using only mental commands, including forward motion and turning at will.
According to Wang, the widespread dispersion of these wheelchairs and other thought-controlled devices could transform the livelihoods of patients all over the world.
"In real life, BCI technology could help many people, including those with physical disabilities, mental health conditions, or other illnesses, enabling them to live better lives," he said.
Researchers said the next challenge involves transitioning BCI technology from laboratory settings to safe, reliable everyday use. The objective, they emphasized, is not to replace human capabilities but to expand the ways in which minds interact with the world.
Chinese scientists advance brain-computer interfaces, realizing thought-controlled wheelchair
Chinese scientists advance brain-computer interfaces, realizing thought-controlled wheelchair
Japanese protesters gathered outside the Prime Minister’s Office in Tokyo on Monday, voicing opposition to proposed revisions to three security documents.
The demonstration came the same day Japan’s government held its first expert panel meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office to discuss updates to the three documents, including the National Security Strategy.
Protesters said the government is taking steps they view as dangerous, including easing restrictions on the export of lethal weapons and seeking changes to Japan’s pacifist constitution.
"The export of lethal weapons in itself violates the constitution. From the beginning, they should never have had such weapons. So it is absolutely something we can not allow,” said one protester.
"This will evolve into a situation where wars can be constantly launched, thereby leading to the spread of war. That’s why I believe this is absolutely unacceptable. Since we cannot stop the weapons industry, they’ll try to start wars to keep it going. Profiting from weapons is absolutely not allowed and this itself also violates Article 9 of the constitution, so it must not be done," another protester warned.
Several protesters also argued that amending the constitution is unacceptable.
"I believe amending the constitution is absolutely not allowed. I think we have been able to live in peace until now because the constitution exists. With excuses like ‘the times have changed’, they’re trying to change it casually, turning our country, which has long taken an anti-war stance, toward war. Anyone can clearly see that intention. So I believe we must firmly oppose it," said a man.
"I feel an extremely strong sense of crisis. I also work in an educational institution. The children we have worked so hard to raise being sent to the battlefield - that is completely unacceptable," said a woman.
Japan's current National Security Strategy and two related documents, formulated in 2022, were designed to cover the next 10 years, but the government led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has decided to move up the timetable to accelerate the revision process.
Increasing defense spending is one of the key topics of the meeting.
The expert panel will meet once a month before finalizing a proposal around the fall, after which Takaichi's cabinet aims to approve the revision by year-end.
Japanese protesters rally against proposed revisions to three security documents
