Meta has introduced a new version of a bracelet that reads muscle signals and allows you to control devices without touching them

Meta published a study in the journal Nature detailing a new version of its sEMG-RD wristband. The device reads electrical signals from muscles (electromyography) from the skin's surface and translates them into digital commands — for example, to navigate your computer's desktop, move your cursor, or open programs, Gizmodo reports.

The latest prototype is able to automatically adapt to a new user without extensive training, something previous versions could not do. This is made possible by new neural network algorithms that quickly analyze signals and create a personalized control model.

The developers also demonstrated the ability to recognize the force of gestures — for example, how hard an object is squeezed virtually. This opens up the potential for more complex interactions in VR and AR environments. In addition, the device can already read handwritten text at a speed of 20.9 words per minute.

Meta has been working on similar interfaces since 2021. The current version of the bracelet is one of the company's most promising developments in the field of alternative control methods that do not require cameras or physical controllers. The solution could also be useful for users with disabilities.