An open interface system for non-invasive brain-to-brain free communication between naive human participants

Abstract

Free and open communication is fundamental to modern life. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), which translate measurements of the users brain activity into computer commands, present emerging forms of hands-free communication. BCI communication systems have long been used in clinical settings for patients with paralysis and other motor disorders, and yet have not been implemented for free communication between healthy, BCI-naive users. Here, in two studies, we developed and validated a high-performance non-invasive BCI communication system, and examined its feasibility for communication during free word association and unprompted free conversation. Our system, focusing on usability for free communication, produced information transfer rates sufficient and practical for free association and brain-to-brain conversation (~5.7 words/minute). Our findings suggest that performance appraisals for BCI systems should incorporate the free communication scenarios for which they are ultimately intended. To facilitate free and open communication in healthy users and patients, we have made our source code and data open access.