AVNRWORLD

For people suffering from disabilities, here is some good news. Researchers have developed systems that read brainwaves in the form of electroencephalogram (EEG) signals in order to help the disabled control wheelchairs, play games or type on a computer. Two companies are already preparing to sell such devices to mainstream consumers. Australian company Emotiv will release a helmet equipped with 16 sensors that make it possible to direct twelve different movements in a computer game. The helmet can also detect emotions, says the company. It will be compatible with any PC running Windows and ship later this year for $299. Californian company NeuroSky too has come up with a device that can detect emotions, the firm says it can tell whether you are focused, relaxed, afraid or anxious, for example. NeuroSky does not sell it directly to the public. Instead, it is licencing its technology to other companies including Mattel, Nokia and Sega. These licensed developers will bundle the technology with their applications and sell into the retail market. Mattel, for example, will soon sell a game that involves players levitating a ball using thought alone.