In recent years, promising technologies have emerged for individuals suffering from conditions like paralysis or stroke. Implants and brain-computer interfaces, such as Neuralink, have shown highly successful results in their testing phases. However, these technologies are currently prototype projects, inaccessible to everyone. Non-invasive versions, in particular, which do not require surgical intervention, may take years to reach the general public. Yet, during this period, alternative solutions that can assist many patients have begun to appear. Among the most notable of these is the MouthPad, which has now become a commercially available product. The device, which garnered significant attention with its introduction two years ago, went on sale this week.
What Does MouthPad Do?
With a price tag of $1,400, the MouthPad resembles a thin, transparent plate worn on the upper teeth. However, this special oral device tracks the user's tongue movements and head movements, allowing them to control computers, tablets, or smartphones entirely hands-free. Developed especially for users with limited mobility, the device is seen as one of the primary alternatives to brain implants that require surgical intervention.
Converting Tongue Movements into Computer Commands
To order a MouthPad, which is custom-made for each user, a dental scan of the user is first required. Weighing approximately 10 grams, the device detects tongue movements via a pressure-sensitive touch surface placed on the palate. Its internal motion sensors track head movements to determine cursor direction.
The device operates via Bluetooth, connecting wirelessly with Windows computers, Macs, smartphones, and tablets. Users can direct the mouse cursor simply by moving their tongues, and also perform actions like clicking, scrolling, and drag-and-drop. Additionally, a sucking motion can be used as an extra input method.
Furthermore, Augmental's second-generation MouthPad has evolved beyond just a computer mouse. Users can assign keyboard shortcuts to different tongue movements. This makes not only daily computer use but also more complex tasks like gaming or 3D modeling possible.
In promotional videos shared by the company, users are seen performing precise cursor control and even playing some games using only tongue movements. According to data provided by Augmental, there are over 6,300 people on the waiting list.
One of Augmental's most striking claims concerns performance. According to the company, MouthPad's speed and accuracy in cursor control can reach levels similar to brain-computer interfaces like Neuralink. Of course, the two technologies operate on entirely different principles. While Neuralink reads neural signals directly through electrodes implanted in the brain, MouthPad achieves this entirely by utilizing tongue movements. Therefore, MouthPad is a much lower-risk alternative that does not require any surgical operation.
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