All in your Mind

Two newly announced products based around technology from NeuroSky round out a number of recent BCI (Brain-Computer Interface) consumer devices.

The Mattel Mind Flex and The Force Trainer from Uncle Milton both leverage NeuroSky’s bio-signal technology to interpret brainwaves, eye movements, facial muscles and heartrate. NeuroSky’s developer kit may be the gateway to many other interesting products.

Of more interest as a dedicated BCI is the OCZ NIA (Neural Impulse Actuator). Geared toward PC gamers, the NIA uses bio-signals to trigger keyboard commands. Software such as MIDI-OX can further parse these commands into MIDI data streams useful for audio and video programs.

Another game oriented device is the long-awaited Emotiv Epoc. The Epoc has been demonstrated at the GDC for the past two years, but has not yet made it to market. In February 2008 Emotiv opened up their API and provided an SDKLite version for free.

The godfather of these recent products is the IBVA (Interactive Brainwave Visual Analyzer). Developed by Masahiro Kahata, the IBVA has been over 15 years in the making. The accompanying analysis software is the most sophisticated and up to date. Masahiro continues to leverage the latest Apple technologies. In addition to a full featured MIDI mapping implementation, there is a QuartzComposer plugin and a soon to be released iPhone app.

The IBVA is in heavy use at the studio of Duncan Laurie to provide input for Ableton Live and MAX/MSP patches.