Dutch electronics group Philips on Tuesday announced it is to invest in brainwave technology which will make it possible for electronic equipment to be directed by brainwave commands.

The technology will make it possible for patients with, for instance, muscle-wasting diseases to remain at home and use their television, tablet and other electronic equipment simply by thinking about it, the company said.

It will also be of benefit to people who have lost the use of their vocal chords or their eyes. 

First version

Philips has already developed, together with partner Accenture, a first version of the technology which will be further developed in the coming years.

With budget cuts in health care, Philips thinks that brainwave technology will fulfill an important role in allowing patients to stay at home.

Thermostat

‘Things like turning down the thermostat or closing the curtains will eventually be possible just by thinking,’ project leader Bob Koppes told news agency ANP. ‘And it will allow hospital patients to raise or lower their bed without having to call a nurse.’

Koppes could not say how much Philips will invest in brainwave technology. Nor could he say how long it would take to make the system available to the public.