Researchers at Zhejiang University in China are reporting development of the brain-computer interface through which a monkey is able to control an external robotic arm. The device senses the state of 200 neurons, which is sufficient to translate the signals into complicated finger movements, an advancement over previous systems.
The monkey, named Jianhui, is able to grab, hook, grip, and pinch, a development that may eventually help the severely paralyzed.
Press release: A Mechanical Hand Performing Movements Controlled by a Monkey’s “Mind Power”
(hat tip: New Scientist)