Science Fiction Becomes Reality With AI-Powered Mind Reading; The Consequences of the Data Gold Rush

As tiny chips and artificial intelligence algorithms become more powerful, a possible future where people control computers just by thinking has become more realistic, according to Brian Otis, the cofounder and former chief technology officer of Alphabet’s Verily life-sciences unit. Otis in February joined Precision Neuroscience as chief technology officer, a move that hasn’t been reported previously. 

Launched in 2021 by a group of founders including Neuralink cofounder Ben Rapoport, Precision has raised $53 million from investors including B Capital, Forepont and Mubadala.

Precision develops a tiny device that sits on the surface of a person’s brain, where it can analyze electrical signals. Sophisticated machine-learning algorithms analyze those data and attempt to determine the person’s intent, allowing them to control software without moving their body. Roughly a dozen people have tested the device so far while Precision collected data, but none has used it to control a computer.