Since the first experiments of Electroencephalography (EEG) on humans by Hans Berger in 1929, the idea that brain activity could be used as a communication channel rapidly emerged. EEG, a technique that measures small electrical currents reflecting brain activity in real-time, has opened up avenues for researchers to decode human brain activity and explore its potential.
Exploring EEG as a Brain-Computer Interface
In the early days of Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) research, one major challenge was the extensive training required before users could effectively interact with the technology. However, with EEG signals being easily recorded in a non-invasive manner through electrodes placed on the scalp, it quickly became the most widely used recording modality. Despite its popularity, EEG signals face challenges due to the weak and poor-quality signals caused by their traversal through the scalp, skull, and other layers. Additionally, background noise, originating both internally in the brain and externally on the scalp, significantly affects the reliability of EEG signals.
Despite these challenges, EEG remains the most studied non-invasive interface due to its fine temporal resolution, ease of use, portability, and low setup cost. Recently, several companies have made medical-grade EEG technology more accessible by developing affordable BCIs, some of which have even been incorporated into toys and gaming devices. Let’s take a closer look at some of the noteworthy consumer-based EEGs that have been released.
1. NeuroSky’s NeuroBoy and the Adventures of MindSet
In 2007, NeuroSky introduced the first affordable consumer-based EEG along with a game called NeuroBoy. The Adventures of NeuroBoy is a game that monitors brain activity through a Bluetooth headset, known as a “MindSet,” and utilizes that data to interact with virtual objects. While the technology is still limited to measuring “concentration” and “meditation,” the game incorporates keyboard and mouse commands for maneuvering NeuroBoy on the screen. Players can choose from four abilities: pushing, pulling, levitating, and burning. NeuroSky’s EEG device was also the first to utilize dry sensor technology on a large scale.
2. OCZ Technology’s Neural Impulse Actuator (NIA)
In 2008, OCZ Technology developed the Neural Impulse Actuator (NIA), a device primarily designed for use in video games. The NIA combines neural and electromyography signals with mouse and keyboard commands, particularly in first-person shooter (FPS) games. The headband of the NIA features three visible neural sensor pads that pick up neural activity and classify it into three classes of signals: electro oculographic, electroencephalographic, and electromyographic. These signals correspond to the behavior of the extraocular muscles, brain, and facial muscles, respectively.
3. Square Enix’s “Judecca” and the NeuroSky Mindset
In 2008, Japanese publisher Square Enix released a mind-controlled video game called “Judecca,” specifically designed for use with the NeuroSky Mindset. The game leverages the EEG technology to enable players to interact with the game world using their brain activity.
4. Mattel’s Mindflex and the Power of Concentration
In 2009, Mattel partnered with NeuroSky to release one of the first commercial brain wearables, an EEG headset used to play a game called Mindflex. Mindflex allows users to navigate a ball through an obstacle course using their “brain power.” Increased concentration raises the ball in the air, courtesy of a motorized fan, while relaxation lowers it.
5. Uncle Milton Industries’ Star Wars Force Trainer
Also in 2009, Uncle Milton Industries collaborated with NeuroSky to release the Star Wars Force Trainer. This game aimed to create the illusion of possessing “The Force” by utilizing the EEG technology embedded in the headset.
6. Emotiv Systems’ EPOC: Gaming with Your Brainwaves
In 2009, Emotiv Systems introduced the EPOC headset, allowing users to play video games using only their brainwaves. This groundbreaking device can detect 4 mental states, 13 conscious states, facial expressions, and head movements. The EPOC stands out as the first commercial BCI to utilize dry sensor technology, which can be enhanced with a saline solution for optimal connection.
7. Neurowear’s Necomimi: Mind-Reading Plush Cat Ears
In November 2011, Japanese company Neurowear unveiled a unique creation called Necomimi, a pair of plush cat ears that supposedly read the wearer’s moods. These mind-reading ears utilize EEG technology to detect brain activity and react accordingly. Powered by four AAA batteries, the ears feature motors along the headband that respond to the signals emitted by the wearer’s brain.
8. g.tec’s intendiX-SPELLER: A Commercial BCI System for Home Use
In March 2012, g.tec introduced the intendiX-SPELLER, the first commercially available BCI system designed for home use. This system enables users to control computer games and apps using their brain signals with an impressive accuracy of 99%. g.tec has also organized workshops to showcase the intendiX system and other related hardware and software to the public.
9. They Shall Walk’s Wireless BCI Collaboration
In February 2014, nonprofit organization They Shall Walk partnered with James W. Shakarji to develop a wireless BCI. The focus of this collaboration was on constructing exoskeletons, known as LIFESUITs, for paraplegics and quadriplegics.
10. Open-Source BCI Development
In 2016, a group of hobbyists created an open-source BCI board capable of transmitting neural signals to the audio jack of a smartphone. This development significantly reduced the entry-level cost of BCIs, making them more accessible to a wider audience. The basic diagnostic software is available for Android devices, along with a text entry app for Unity.