Synchron partners with Nvidia for advanced brain-computer interface

Synchron has teamed up with Nvidia to create a new brain-computer interface (BCI) that aims to help people with severe physical disabilities communicate more naturally. This collaboration focuses on developing what they call "cognitive AI." This technology aims to make the interaction with the world smoother and more effective. Most BCIs today can perform single tasks, like playing games or controlling robotic arms. However, Synchron wants to create a BCI that can handle multiple tasks in a real home environment. CEO Tom Oxley mentioned that their system will be operational 24/7, making it responsive and adaptive to users' needs in everyday situations. To build this advanced BCI, Synchron needs a large amount of brain data. In their partnership, both companies are working to combine brain data with powerful computational tools. Oxley believes that this cognitive AI represents the next step in AI evolution, moving beyond current capabilities. Currently, BCIs rely on data from individual users performing specific tasks. Researchers record brain activity during these tasks and use that data to train AI models. Synchron plans to enhance this approach by pooling brain data from various trial participants. According to Maryam Shanechi, a researcher at the University of Southern California, this broader data set will help create a more accurate BCI that can perform a wider range of functions without needing extensive training for each user. While some training will still be necessary, the goal is to streamline the process. Users may receive instructions to perform specific movements, even if they cannot physically do them. Their brain activity can still indicate intended movements. Synchron aims to use Nvidia’s advanced AI models to create realistic simulations, helping users visualize their movements and practice mentally.