Neuroheadset Launched To Harness Brain Power

In the US, Emotiv Systems, which creates brain computer interface technology, has launched a neuroheadset that allows players to control gameplay with their thoughts, expressions and emotions. The firm believes that this technology could be applied to market research to demonstrate products to consumers.

The Emotiv EPOC is a wireless device, featuring sensors that detect around 30 different conscious thoughts, expressions and non-conscious emotions based on electrical signals around the brain. These could include smiling, laughing, winking, shock, anger, smirking and grimacing; excitement, meditation, tension and frustration; and cognitive actions such as push, pull, lift, drop and rotate. In addition, the technology can respond to action based on visualisation, such as the ability to make objects disappear.

'Being able to control a computer with your mind is the ultimate quest of human-machine interaction,' said CEO Nam Do. 'When integrated into games, virtual worlds and other simulated environments, this technology will have a profound impact on the user's experience.'

Future planned development of the Emotiv EPOC will offer access to a portal providing an opportunity for social interaction with other users through chat or community areas.

Founded by four scientists and technology entrepreneurs, Emotiv is headquartered in San Francisco, with offices in Sydney, Australia. The firm is online at www.emotiv.com.

Last autumn, emotional intelligence technology developer EmSense launched a high-tech brain-scanner to measure the brain waves, heart rates, and sweat responses of a test group playing an online military-themed game (www.mrweb.com/drno/news7215.htm ).