Meta's new wristband lets you control your computer with gestures
What's the story
Meta, the tech giant behind Facebook and Instagram, has unveiled a prototype wristband that can control computers with hand gestures. The device uses electromyography (EMG) to read electrical signals from muscles in the forearm. These signals are generated by alpha motor neurons in the spinal cord that connect to individual muscle fibers. The technology is still experimental but could revolutionize human-computer interaction.
Technology breakdown
How the wristband works
The wristband works by translating the electrical signals from muscles into computer commands. A slight wrist movement can move a cursor on a laptop screen, while tapping the thumb against the forefinger can open an app on a desktop. Even writing in mid-air with an imaginary pencil makes letters appear on your smartphone. The technology is based on reading these muscle-generated signals, which are strong enough to be detected through the skin.
AI integration
AI helps the device understand patterns
Meta's wristband leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to improve its performance. Dr. Thomas Reardon, Meta's VP of Research and project lead, said the technology can even move a laptop cursor just by thinking about it. This is possible because the device has been trained with data from 10,000 people who tested the prototype. It now recognizes common patterns in this data and can work with new users it has never seen before.
Market prospects
The technology could help people with disabilities
Meta plans to integrate the wristband technology into its products in the coming years. Last year, the company demonstrated how the device could control an experimental version of its smart glasses. The wristband could also be a game-changer for people with disabilities, as it allows them to use smartphones and computers even if they don't have full control over their arms or hands.