MIT researchers are quietly building an alternative path to brain–computer interfaces—and it doesn’t involve drilling into the skull. This device, often called MouthPad, is a 0.7 mm ultra-thin oral interface that sits on the roof of the mouth like a dental retainer. Instead of reading neural spikes directly from the brain, it captures high-resolution tongue gestures using an array of capacitive sensors. The tongue is uniquely suited for this: it’s fast, precise, fatigue-resistant, and mapped to large regions of the motor cortex. Here’s the key engineering insight 👇 Rather than invasive electrodes, MIT leverages neuromuscular control + signal processing. Tongue movements are translated into cursor motion, clicks, and gestures, then transmitted wirelessly via Bluetooth. The result is real-time human–computer interaction without surgery, external cameras, or voice input. Why this matters: • No cranial surgery or implanted electrodes • Works in silent or noisy environments • Can be use...