The use of a headset with multiple sensors to sense brain activity and support biofeedback for control is well known, but Intel researchers in Pittsburgh have said that some consumers would opt for an implanted, wirelessly-connected Intel-developed chip-sensor rather than have the inconvenience of wearing a headset, according to the reports. 2020 is given as a date by which consumers will be routinely using implanted chips and brainwaves instead of a mouse or remote control.

Intel Research Labs Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh are working together and have used FMRI machines to look at blood flow changes in specific areas of the brain in response to a particular word or image that someone is thinking of, according to a Computerworld account.

Dean Pomerleau, an Intel researcher, is referenced saying the team is close to being able to include sensors in a head set that could be used to control a computer using thought. The next step would be the development of an implantable sensor that could be positioned inside the brain, the report said.

"Eventually people may be willing to be more committed ... to brain implants. Imagine being able to surf the Web with the power of your thoughts," the report quotes Pomerleau as saying.

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