Armband Taps into Muscle Power to Control Electronics

By: | October 5th, 2013

Myo is the world’s first gesture-controlled armband, an innovative new piece of technology that harnesses electrical activity in your muscles to control computers, phones and other electronics via Bluetooth.

Developed by Thalmic Labs in Waterloo, Ontario, the Myo armband uses electrical activity from your muscles in your arms, as you move your hand, sensing the motions and rotations and then sends the command to the device. This electrical activity is plugged in wirelessly over Bluetooth to various different electronic or digital devices.

The stretchable device is a one-size-fits all armband that’s made with light material so as to be as comfortable as possible for the wearer. The Myo’s creators claim that it could completely revolutionize the way we interact with technology.

Its uses are broad, from controlling our TVs and smartphones to operating machinery. The armband has great potential for the latter, allowing users to control equipment from a distance or while in dangerous terrain. This could prove particularly safe, while also productive, in construction sites or similar environments.

Pre-orders for the Myo are available now, starting at $149.00.

Jonathan Keane

Irish journalist writing on business, tech and engineering.

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