Facebook Goes Sci-Fi With Purchase of New ‘Computer-Brain’ Startup

The social media giant continues to surprise the world with new developments and acquisitions. Some make it look like the company is trying to deliver some rather futuristic solutions and products. For example, It announced on Monday that it is in the process of acquiring a company known as CTRL-labs.

Futuristic Facebook

According to what is known about the firm, CTRL-labs is a neurotechnology startup. Facebook admitted that the purchase of the startup comes as part of its efforts to come up with a wristband that would allow people to control computers, smartphones, and similar devices without the need for physical contact. The startup appears to underscore Facebook’s efforts to revolutionize the way we interact with computers, as well as with each other. Facebook initially revealed that it was working on a computer-brain interface all the way back in 2017. The company hinted that its efforts might allow people to type words and send messages simply by thinking about them. The plan was to create a wearable device and avoid the hassle of getting a surgical implant. Facebook’s VP of augmented and virtual reality, Andrew Bosworth, stated in a post that there are more natural and intuitive ways to interact with technologies and devices around the world. It would appear that Facebook is still determined to make this goal a reality.

Mom, can you pick me up? I'm scared.https://t.co/y1YlzhrrGQ

— CNET (@CNET) September 24, 2019

The Brain Game

The company seems to believe that the startup could help make this vision a reality. They have supposedly started developing a special wristband which could decode various electrical signals that are sent by the neurons in the spinal cord and delivered to muscles in people’s hands. These are the signals that control movement, deliver instructions of what the hands should do, and in which way they should move — including pressing a button or clicking a mouse. Facebook clearly believes that these plans have great potential and that its plans could become a reality thanks to this technology. If it does happen as the company is plans. it might become a lot easier to send messages, post photos, and make status updates, all without lifting a finger. At this point, it still remains unclear how the startup might be incorporated into Facebook’s future AR and VR projects and products. However, the startup’s employees will surely become a part of Facebook Reality Labs, which is run by Michael Abrash, as well as Bosworth himself. Facebook did not reveal how much it paid for the purchase of the startup, nor did the company give any hint as to when its wristband might be completed. What do you think about Facebook’s new acquisition? Do you like the idea of controlling your phone, computer, and other devices with your mind? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know.

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