In a remarkable technological advancement, a man suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has been able to control Amazon’s Alexa using only his mind. This groundbreaking innovation was announced by Synchron, a company specializing in brain-computer interface (BCI) technology.

Through an implant in a blood vessel on the brain’s surface, the 64-year-old patient, identified as Mark, is now able to operate Alexa-compatible devices such as smart lights, cameras, and thermostats, as well as stream music and shows—all with thought alone. The implant works with an Amazon Fire tablet, allowing Mark to “tap” icons by sending mental commands.

Mark’s condition, ALS, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that leads to muscle weakness and paralysis, making even simple tasks difficult or impossible. With this brain implant, Mark has regained some autonomy. “It gives me back the independence that I’m losing,” Mark said in a statement.

Synchron’s technology represents a significant step forward for patients with disabilities. The test aimed to demonstrate the potential for controlling smart homes using brain implants, further highlighting the power of BCI. The company is part of a growing industry, with competitors like Neuralink also exploring similar innovations.