FutureWire - futurism and emerging technology

Friday, June 02, 2006

Where Mind Meets Machine

Scientists are making huge strides in developing computing devices that interface directly with the human mind. CNET profiles several such experiments, including:

  • BrainGate, a computer that allows those with spinal cord injuries and other immobilizing conditions to control electronic devices through their thoughts.

  • BioBricks, an open source library of DNA sequences and other biological components for synthetic organisms (or "genetically engineered machines").

  • DARPA's "BioCOMP" biocomputation project, which strives to use DNA for storage and computation (perhaps the ultimate man-machine interface).