You probably associate EEG headsets with hospitals and research labs, and although the technology is invaluable within these industries, the sheer expense of headsets in the past meant that it was rare for individuals and smaller teams to have the opportunity to utilize them. Today however it’s a different story, as democratizing EEG technology was exactly what CEO Tan Le had in mind when she started developing the Emotiv headsets. The affordability of these headsets means that small research teams, schools and even individual techies will all have the chance to use the software for their own research and experimentation.
Whilst the software is still in its infant stages in terms of application, it has the potential to achieve feats more associated with sci-fi films than real life. Already it’s been used to move a skateboard and play video games using mind control but more frequently the software has been used to assist with everyday applications:
1. Market Research
The Emotiv headset works by reading your brain activity and facial expressions and from this infers what your emotions are. This makes it the perfect tool for market researchers. Just think, people might lie about what they actually think about your company’s new advert or that trailer for your new film. By using the Emotiv headset you will be able to ‘read’ your subject’s emotions and measure key points such as level of engagement.
2. Data from Studies
The headsets can record the brain waves of individuals, and these can then be converted into brain maps and videos to visualize the results. A recent study into the brain activity of poker players of varying levels was greatly enhanced by the brain maps provided by this headset.
3. Gamer Interaction
Every gamer dreams of the day that they can put on a headset and become part of the game. Just imagine how epic the likes of Call of Duty or Grand Theft Auto will become when you can actually step into the game. Of course, just how easy gamers will find the shift from controllers to using their minds could be pretty difficult.
4.Virtual Controller
It might seem easy enough to use your mouse or trackpad to open a tab or document on your computer, but as headsets like the ones from Emotiv become an everyday reality then using anything other than your brain will one day seem like a terribly slow process. Forget remote controls – these EEG headsets can be used to control everyday objects.
5. For Those with Paralysis
One of the best applications of the Emotiv headset is the potential it has to help people with physical disabilities to communicate more effectively and gain more independence using the power of their mind.
“One of the most humbling aspects is when you see someone adopt your technology in a way that transforms their lives…What we’ve been able to do is really fascinating, it’s very exciting, but it’s only just scratching the surface of what is possible.” Tan Le, CEO
6. Brain Training
Of course, just like lifting weights in a gym will improve your body strength, using your brain with Emotiv will also improve the fitness of your brain. The headset function improves with the extent to which you hone your mind. As you become better at controlling with your headset, your brain strength is similarly evolving.
No one will wear these gadgets on their heads. This has proven to be a barrier to entry in the consumer markets. A company called Freer Logic has a body based wearable that sits on the wrist or arm. Think ‘Fitbit’ looking device that does the same thing as a weird headset. We use it to train kids with ADHD to increase cognitive ability.