Technology
With 90% accuracy... a brain chip that converts thoughts into text!
In a significant development in the field of neurotechnology, researchers from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) have developed a brain-computer interface
In a significant development in the field of neurotechnology, researchers from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) have developed a miniature brain-computer interface capable of converting thoughts into text with an accuracy exceeding 90%.
According to a report published by Brighter Side, this innovation is known as the “Miniature Brain-Machine Interface” (MiBMI), and is an important step towards developing fully implantable, low-power communication tools that could provide people with paralysis or speech disorders with an effective means of communication.
Unlike traditional systems that rely on large, high-power external devices, the “miniature brain-machine interface” integrates all its basic components onto two silicon chips with a total area of no more than 2.46 square millimeters, which is smaller than a fingernail.
This extreme miniaturization allows the system to be implanted entirely within the body without the need for external equipment, greatly improving user comfort and ease of use.
The “miniature brain-machine interface” relies on capturing neural signals associated with thinking about handwriting. Electrodes implanted inside the brain record patterns of neural activity resulting from “imaginary writing,” then analyze these signals and convert them in real time into text displayed on the screen.
Tests show that the chip is capable of translating up to 31 characters with an accuracy of up to 91%, thus outperforming previous systems.
Lead researcher Mohammad Ali Shaeri said: "We believe we can decipher up to 100 characters in the future, but we need a larger handwriting database to achieve this.".
The technology relies on what are known as "DNCs" (Dense Neural Codes), which are simplified signals used to reduce the complexity of the encryption and decryption process, allowing for speed and efficiency in converting ideas into written text.
One of the most notable advantages of the “miniature brain-machine interface” is its energy efficiency, as the entire system consumes no more than one milliwatt, making it suitable for continuous operation inside the body.
This is a significant leap forward compared to previous models that required external computers and frequent charging, which limited their clinical usefulness.
Maha Shairan, director of the Integrated Neurotechnology Laboratory at the institute, said: “The miniaturized brain-machine interface allows us to convert complex neural activity into highly accurate, energy-efficient, readable text. This development brings us closer to practical solutions that restore communication for people with severe motor disabilities.”.
The “Miniature Brain-Machine Interface” chip uses a simplified type of machine learning technique known as “Linear Discriminant Analysis” (LDA), which allows for a 100-fold reduction in memory consumption and a 320-fold reduction in the complexity of calculations compared to traditional models.
This structure allows for instantaneous decoding with almost zero delay, a feature essential for natural and efficient interaction.
The system's use goes beyond simply recognizing writing, as researchers are currently exploring its ability to decode neural signals associated with speech and control fine motor movements.
In animal experiments, the “miniature brain-machine interface” was able to distinguish auditory responses in the brains of mice with an accuracy of 87%, opening the door to wider uses in neuroscience.
Technology
America airlifts its first miniaturized nuclear reactor: details of the historic achievement
In a historic first, the United States successfully transported a miniature nuclear reactor by air using a military aircraft. Learn more about the operation and its impact on the future of energy and national security.
In a first of its kind globally, the United States Departments of Energy and Defense announced the successful execution of the first airlift of a miniature nuclear reactor, in a strategic step aimed at demonstrating readiness to deploy advanced nuclear energy solutions quickly and effectively to serve both military and civilian purposes.
Details of the complex logistical process
The successful operation involved transporting the reactor from California to Hill Air Force Base in Utah aboard a C-17 Globemaster strategic military transport aircraft. To ensure maximum safety during air transport, the reactor was shipped without nuclear fuel, demonstrating the ease with which reactor infrastructure can be moved before fueling at the operating site.
This achievement was accomplished through close collaboration between government agencies and California-based Valar Atomics, which selected one of the company’s Ward miniature reactors to carry out this pioneering experiment.
A strategic shift in the concepts of energy and national security
This move is of paramount importance, extending far beyond mere logistical transport; it represents a shift in American military and industrial doctrine toward the adoption of "mobile nuclear power." Historically, nuclear reactors have been massive, fixed civilian facilities requiring years to construct, but the move toward micro-reactors offers flexible energy solutions.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael Duffy were aboard the aircraft to closely monitor the operation, hailing it as a pivotal achievement in military logistics. Duffy emphasized that this operation "brings the United States closer to deploying nuclear power at the right time and place," which means enhancing the U.S. military's ability to support forces in combat missions and at remote bases without relying entirely on vulnerable conventional fuel supply chains.
Political support and a future-oriented approach
This experiment aligns with the policies of US President Donald Trump's administration, which has adopted a strategy of expanding small nuclear reactors as a key pathway to increasing energy production. This approach is driven by growing national security demands, as well as the immense needs of data centers and artificial intelligence applications, which require sustainable and reliable energy sources. Last May, Trump issued four executive orders aimed at promoting and expanding the deployment of nuclear power, and in December, the Department of Energy awarded grants to accelerate the development of these technologies.
Technical specifications and promising business plans
Technically speaking, Isaiah Taylor, CEO of Valar, explained that the mobile reactor is compact, slightly larger than a small bus, yet has a tremendous capacity to generate up to 5 megawatts of electricity, enough to supply about 5,000 homes with continuous power.
Taylor revealed the operational timeline, stating that work will begin next July with an initial capacity of 100 kilowatts, gradually increasing to 250 kilowatts later this year, and eventually reaching full capacity. The company aims to begin trial power sales by 2027, with plans to transition to full commercial operation in 2028. The company emphasized the need for enabling federal regulations to allow fuel manufacturing and uranium enrichment within the United States to ensure the independence of this vital sector.
Technology
Conclusion of the CISO500 program to enhance cyber leadership in Saudi Arabia
Sirar by stc and PwC concluded the fifth edition of the CISO500 program, with the aim of empowering cybersecurity leaders in Saudi Arabia and discussing the challenges of artificial intelligence.
The fifth edition of the “CISO500” program, a leading initiative organized in strategic partnership between “PwC Middle East” and “Sirar by stc”, recently concluded after five days of intensive sessions and rich discussions aimed at honing the skills of cybersecurity leaders in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The context of digital transformation and the importance of cybersecurity
This program is being held at a crucial time, as Saudi Arabia is experiencing rapid technological advancements in line with the goals of Vision 2030, where digital transformation is a cornerstone of diversifying the national economy. With the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure in both the public and private sectors, the urgent need arises to develop national leaders capable of protecting cyberspace from evolving threats. The program's role extends beyond technical training; it also aims to promote the strategic concept of cybersecurity as an enabler of business, not merely a defensive tool.
Program themes: From governance to artificial intelligence
The fifth edition of the program focused on developing the skills of Chief Cyber Security Officers (CISOs) to enable them to play a pivotal role in strategic decision-making within their organizations. The program covered advanced topics including:
- Cyber transformation pitfalls: Reviewing common challenges and how to avoid them to ensure a secure digital transition.
- Financial management and governance: How to manage cybersecurity budgets and translate technical risks into financial metrics that support board decisions.
- Emerging Technologies: Discussing the impact of artificial intelligence and quantum computing on the security landscape, with a focus on the governance of AI technologies and securing critical and operational infrastructure.
Enhancing national preparedness
Commenting on the program's conclusion, Mr. Yasser Al-Suwailem , CEO of Sirar by stc, affirmed that the program represents a crucial step towards enhancing the readiness of cybersecurity leaders in the region. Al-Suwailem stated, “The CISO500 program is a cornerstone in our journey towards building a secure and reliable Saudi cyberspace, fully aligned with our national aspirations.” He added that investing in national leaders is no longer an option but a strategic imperative to ensure sustainable digital development, noting that the initiative embodies a commitment to empowering talent according to the highest global standards.
Long-term investment in talent
For his part, Professor Samer Omar , Head of Cybersecurity and Digital Trust at PwC Middle East, explained that the partnership reflects a firm commitment to developing leadership capabilities. He stated, “The CISO500 program is a long-term investment in Saudi leadership. Over the past year, we have witnessed how bringing together top Saudi professionals in a structured executive environment accelerates capacity building and fosters trust.” Omar emphasized that the focus is on providing chief information security officers with the strategic vision and technical depth necessary to safeguard the Kingdom’s digital ambitions.
Interactive experience and participant testimonials
The program adopted an interactive learning methodology that combined strategic discussions with practical activities. In this context, Professor Abdullah Al-Asmari , Head of Cybersecurity at the Saudi Research and Media Group, highlighted the program's added value, stating, "The program provided an enriching experience that enhanced the leadership perspective on cybersecurity, particularly in linking technical practices to strategic and financial dimensions." He added that the program offered a valuable platform for exchanging expertise on the challenges of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, thereby strengthening leaders' ability to make decisions based on a comprehensive understanding of risks and value.
The participants concluded the program by emphasizing its role in establishing cybersecurity as a strategic enabler that supports innovation and maintains business sustainability and reliability in light of increasing global challenges.
Technology
ICAN 2026 Conference Conclusion: Initiatives to Enhance Saudi Arabia's Leadership in Artificial Intelligence
The ICAN 2026 conference concluded with the launch of 7 initiatives and the signing of 27 strategic agreements to enhance national capacity building in data and artificial intelligence within the framework of Vision 2030.
ICAN 2026 conference concludes with resounding success
The International Conference on Building Capabilities in Data and Artificial Intelligence (ICAN 2026) concluded its work in Riyadh, organized by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) at King Saud University. The two-day conference witnessed an exceptional turnout of over 30,000 participants and experts from within the Kingdom and abroad, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom's journey towards global leadership in advanced technologies. The conference yielded tangible results, including the launch of seven key initiatives and the signing of 27 strategic agreements aimed at accelerating digital transformation and building a knowledge-based economy.
Strategic background: Artificial intelligence at the heart of Vision 2030
The organization of this conference comes within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s tireless efforts to achieve the goals of Vision 2030, which places digital transformation and technological innovation at the heart of its priorities. The Saudi Data & Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) plays a pivotal role in leading this transformation, working to build a sophisticated data and artificial intelligence infrastructure, develop national capabilities, and stimulate investment in this vital sector. The ICAN 2026 conference serves as a strategic platform to translate these directions into practical reality by bringing together leading minds, experts, and decision-makers to exchange knowledge and forge effective partnerships that support national aspirations.
Key initiatives and agreements and their expected impact
The initiatives launched formed the cornerstone of the conference's outcomes, designed to address multiple aspects of the artificial intelligence ecosystem, from education and research to professional application. Among the most prominent of these initiatives are:
- The “Samai 2” initiative, in partnership with 11 ministries, aims to enable government personnel to use artificial intelligence technologies responsibly and efficiently, thereby enhancing the quality of government services and improving performance efficiency.
- National Frameworks and Standards: The second version of the National Framework for Academic and Professional Program Standards, in addition to a unified university curriculum, was launched to ensure that educational outcomes are aligned with future labor market requirements.
- “Azka X” platform: A national capacity-building platform that offers specialized training programs in collaboration with global technology giants such as IBM, Microsoft, AWS, and Oracle, to equip young people with the necessary skills.
In addition, the conference witnessed the signing of 27 strategic agreements with more than 50 local and international entities, including leading universities and technology companies. These partnerships will contribute to accelerating knowledge transfer, localizing technology, creating new job opportunities, and enhancing the Kingdom's position as a regional hub for attracting investment and talent in the field of artificial intelligence. The significance of these outcomes extends beyond the local level, impacting regionally and internationally, as Saudi Arabia presents a pioneering model for building a sustainable and integrated digital economy.
A global platform for exchanging experiences
The conference was more than just an advertising platform; it was a vibrant intellectual forum featuring over 64 international speakers across 14 panel discussions and 15 practical workshops. The accompanying exhibition, comprising 23 booths, provided a unique opportunity for educational and technological institutions to showcase their latest innovations and experiences, enriching the dialogue and opening new avenues for collaboration. The event concluded with an awards ceremony honoring partners and celebrating outstanding national talent, including SDAIA employees, alumni of its academy, and high-achieving participants in international competitions, underscoring that investment in human capital is the foundation of future success.
-
Culture and Art, 1 week agoThe ban on the Hamdiya series in Iraq: Reasons and official response
-
Local News 5 days ago
The Ministry of Interior begins procedures for a royal pardon for common law prisoners
-
Local news two days ago
Saudi Arabia approves regulations for the continued presence of Gulf vehicles: duration and penalties
-
Reports one week ago
King Salman Relief Center's Ramadan aid includes 9 countries
-
Local news one week ago
19 requirements to reduce dust from projects in Riyadh and fines for violators
-
Sports one week ago
Dates for the Al-Nassr vs. Al-Wasl match in the 2026 AFC Champions League quarter-finals
-
Culture and Art, 1 week ago
Details of the first episode of the series "Al-Maddah 6: The Legend of the End"
-
Politics, one week ago
Trump plans to create a $2 billion alternative to the World Health Organization
