Meta researchers are developing a wristband that will allow users to control their computer with a wave of their hand. The device uses surface electromyography (sEMG) to detect electrical signals from muscle activity. These signals can be used to determine what movement a user is making, sometimes even before they’re made. Wearers can use the device to complete multiple actions on a computer like writing messages by mimicking writing with a pencil in the air.
Meta and Carnegie Mellon have partnered to test the wristband with users who have spinal cord injuries that limit their ability to move their arms or hands. Medical professionals have found that some people with complete hand paralysis still exhibit some muscle activity, meaning the device could work for them as well since it can interpret intended motions.
This isn’t the first project to find alternative methods for controlling computers. There are other non-invasive methods that use headsets to interpret electroencephalogram (EEG) signals, but EEG signals aren’t as strong as sEMG. This device is both non-invasive and operates at a higher frequency than tech that uses EEG.
