Neurotechnology Lets a Paralyzed Person Use Their Brain to Fly a Virtual Drone

Learn how a brain-computer interface allowed a paralyzed patient to guide a quadcopter through a virtual course by thinking of moving their fingers.

By Jack Knudson
Jan 21, 2025 10:45 PMJan 21, 2025 10:37 PM
Neurotechnology test
This person does not represent a paralyzed patient, but represents the topic of neurotechnology in this article. (Credit: Microgen/Shutterstock)

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Innovative technology linked with the brain is already helping restore the quality of life for many disabled individuals, such as one paralyzed patient who piloted a virtual drone by simply thinking. This breakthrough in neurotechnology, detailed in a recent study, demonstrates the exciting possibilities becoming available for those with motor impairments who want to enjoy recreational activities like playing video games. 

The study, published in Nature Medicine, was founded on paralyzed individuals' desire to engage in hobbies like sports or gaming, activities that may normally be difficult due to loss of movement in the body. By designing a brain-computer interface (BCI) to address this issue, researchers have made tremendous progress in showing how people who have developed physical impairments can enjoy games and socialize with friends in unprecedented ways.

Implementing a Brain-Computer Interface

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