What we’re about
Neurotechnology; without a legal definition how do we know what it is?
Lets debate the topic in a healthy way that supports all points of view. So we may create a safe frame of reference, and protect our memories, (brain data).
Even though there is no UK legal definition for neurotechnology, neurowearables are here and are coming to the market in their droves.
The devices are set to replace mobile phones in the next 5 to 15 years, and a battle for your memories (brain data) is underway.
The market is currently valued at $17.1 billion globally by 2026 according to the Regulatory Horizons Council (RHC)-neurotechnology-regulation report Nov 2022.
There are a number of areas within the neurotechnological field which will support people to greater lives. Grouping the technology under one banner is dangerous, and many could turn away and become fearful of the technology if they are not protected from the start. This is why it is imperative to split the market and types of devices into segments.
Neurowearables are: earbuds, headphones, headbands, watches, wristbands, and wearable tattoos. They will soon enter the market capturing the last frontier of the body; harvesting the “holy grail of data”, your memories. Controlling; smartphones, computers, and other digital devices without you having to touch a screen or keyboard. Tech titans Meta, Snap, Microsoft and Apple are already investing heavily in neurowearables but the UK has no direct legislation, or firm regulation, it doesn’t even have a legal definition for neurotechnology!
Neurotechnologies are already here, being used in niche products for; meditation, gaming, social interactions online, and are being used in relation to quick fixes for mental health conditions. Neurotechnologies are extraordinary. The devices with the correct use and regulation will change the way humans interact with the world, and how we interact with each other. Supporting pathological understanding of mental health, and allowing someone who is mute to communicate, or allowing someone to see without vision.
Neurowearables have been placeholder defined as: Consumer facing technologies that are medical and non-medical devices worn on or near the body that measures & records in real time; data of consciousness (phenomenology) and cognitive activity that is not inferred from non neural information sources (biometrics and/or verbal communications).
There is much debate amongst those that are aware of the technology's arrival, but it has been said time and time again by experts that the users, you the public, need to have their say.
This group looks at raising awareness through healthy debate.
The debates will be held online, in the open (outdoors), and event halls.
It's important to note that people attending do not need to have a degree in neurosciences, nor do you have to be an expert or know anything about neurotechnologies. In fact, it's almost better if you do not have an understanding.
All are welcome. This subject needs collective points of view.
