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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AI-Powered Brain-Computer Interface Makes History
San Francisco, California – August 28, 2024 – EMOTIV, the global leader in brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, has made history with its pivotal role in the Prometheus BCI Project, a revolutionary initiative that empowers individuals with paralysis and motor disabilities to control an exoskeleton arm using only their thoughts. This groundbreaking achievement debuted during the Paralympic torch relay, where participants overcame immense physical challenges to fulfill their dreams as torchbearers, demonstrating the transformative potential of neurotechnology.
A Triumph of Technology and Human Spirit
In a world-first, Nathalie Labrégère, born with a cerebral motor disability, made headlines as she controlled an exoskeleton arm with her brain during the Paralympic torch relay. Using EMOTIV’s EPOC X EEG headset, paired with Multimodal Cognitive AI Agents™ developed by Inclusive Brains, Nathalie operated the Orthopus exoskeleton arm mounted on her Permobil smart wheelchair. Her facial expressions were tracked via camera, adding a new dimension to assistive technology.
Nathalie's twin brother, Denis, who has autism, played an essential role in guiding her wheelchair throughout the relay. Equipped with EMOTIV’s MN8 brain-sensing earbuds, Denis’s stress levels were monitored in real-time, helping him stay calm amid the excitement. Together, they exemplified the power of BCI technology to break down barriers and create new possibilities for individuals with physical and cognitive challenges.
The torch relay also featured Pierre Landerretche, a paraplegic since childhood, who used the same groundbreaking technology to control an exoskeleton arm and complete his leg of the relay. Like Nathalie, Pierre demonstrated that with determination and accessible noninvasive technology, anything is possible. His inspiring journey was a powerful reminder of the potential for neurotechnology to transform lives.
Both torchbearers utilized EMOTIV’s innovative BCI technology to accomplish what once seemed impossible, highlighting the company’s commitment to creating inclusive solutions for all.
Commitment to Accessibility
In a commitment to fostering inclusivity, EMOTIV, and its partners will donate exoskeleton arms and EEG headsets to nonprofits supporting individuals with paralysis. The Prometheus BCI, a mental command algorithm, will be made open-source, enabling broader access to this transformative technology. This initiative is supported by the Assistive Tech and AI for Inclusion Impact Initiative (AT4i) of the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders community, co-founded by Olivier Oullier, CEO of Inclusive Brains, and Tan Le, CEO of EMOTIV.
Empowering a New Future
"The success of Nathalie, Denis, and Pierre showcases the transformative potential of BCI technology in opening up new possibilities for individuals across the neurodiversity spectrum and those facing physical and cognitive challenges," said Kim Old, Chief Commercial Officer of EMOTIV. "Their achievements are a powerful reminder of how innovation and collaboration can break down barriers and improve lives. EMOTIV is proud to lead the way in making this technology more accessible and inclusive for everyone."
"Our mission at Inclusive Brains is to harness neurotechnologies and cognitive AI to improve lives and promote inclusivity," said Prof. Olivier Oullier, CEO and Co-Founder of Inclusive Brains and Chairman of the Institute for Artificial Intelligence by Biotech Dental. "Prometheus BCI exemplifies how AI, neurotech, and robotics can serve humanity—ensuring that technology benefits everyone. This inclusive assistive technology empowers individuals, like Nathalie and Pierre, and countless others, regardless of their physical abilities, needs, or unique challenges."
Prometheus BCI’s success highlights EMOTIV’s leadership in advancing BCI technology and its applications across mobility, research, and rehabilitation. By empowering individuals to interact with technology in innovative ways, EMOTIV is shaping a future where the brain becomes the ultimate interface.
For more information about EMOTIV and its social impact globally, please visit www.emotiv.com.
Media Contacts:
Kim Old
Chief Commercial Officer, Emotiv
NOTES TO EDITOR
About EMOTIV:
EMOTIV, a global leader in wireless neurotechnology, is on a mission to revolutionize the understanding of the human brain by democratizing brain measurement and making cutting-edge brain measurement accessible through its versatile range of EEG headsets and research software. By leveraging advanced AI-driven products and the world's largest brain data collection, EMOTIV offers unparalleled precision in decoding brain signals, fostering novel applications from clinical diagnostics to cognitive enhancement. With a robust customer base in over 140 countries, EMOTIV technology has been validated and included in over 21,000 publications. EMOTIV empowers individuals, researchers, and organizations to harness brain power for diverse applications, promoting total mind-body well-being. As EMOTIV moves towards mass-market consumer adoption, it aims to extend its EEG and AI capabilities to consumer devices and partner ecosystems, making cutting-edge neurotechnology accessible to a broader audience. EMOTIV has been and continues to be dedicated to advancing neurotechnology while strongly focusing on neuro rights and neuroethics and fostering a community-driven approach to ethical stewardship and engagement.
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