'Things to Come Series' Part III:

This week I’ve been talking about neckband that is capable of interpreting nerve signals sent from the brain to the vocal cords. As discussed in yesterday’s entry into this series ‘Things to Come’, the device’s practical applications can possibly change they way we learn new information. However, I must admit that initially the idea is almost laughable in that it forces one to become so ingrained with technology that it’s difficult to embrace. However, as a general rule, where practicality outweighs cultural norms, the former wins. Just look at cell phones, which over the past 20 years have gone from discrete, private use in conformity to the notion that talking on a phone in the midst of a restaurant is rude, to near wide-spread, any-time-is-a-good-time utilization. Through and through, cell phones are just a practical means of communication, and by and large that trumps notions of what is considered polite and acceptable. If this neckband that Ambient Corporation is developing delivers on the fronts of voiceless communication as well as providing a direct connection with the wealth of information that is the internet, then we may find ourselves, one day, wondering how we got on without it. And if practicality is what determines the acceptance of a product, consider that most modern devices can either be networked with a PC or come Wi-Fi enabled. That means nearly all electronic devices have the potential to be under your control via this technology. Quite literally, you could configure a system whereby with little more than a thought, you could change television channels, turn on the radio, even start your car! How practical is that?! As bold (and assuredly absurd) as this sounds, what we have here is the potential for what is essentially telepathy, founded on the basis of science and technology. If you want to learn more about this technology check out this footage from the conference where the device made its public debut: [If you watched the video, you’ll note that the device is quite slow. Keep in mind that it is in the early stages of development and translation speed is no doubt something the developers are looking into] Source