Lead: AlterEgo, led by founder Arnav Kapur, unveiled a working prototype of the AlterEgo silent communication wearable that reads faint neuromuscular signals to let users “speak” to machines without sound. The device builds on a 2018 MIT Media Lab prototype and will be shown at the Axios AI+ Summit in Washington, D.C., on September 17, 2025. It aims to offer a non-invasive interface and an alternative to brain implants for hands-free, private interaction.
Silent speech interface
The AlterEgo silent communication wearable senses subtle muscle activity in the face and neck. It compares favorably to EMG-based prosthetics and avoids implants. Machine learning decoding translates those signals into text or commands, creating a privacy-preserving interface for everyday devices.
Jaw and throat signals
Sensors read jaw and throat signals when a user internally verbalizes words. The system registers only intentional motor signals, reducing accidental capture. This neuromuscular signals approach mimics EMG used in prosthetics but focuses on speech muscles and quiet, private control.
Machine learning decoding
Machine learning decoding maps tiny electrical patterns to likely words or actions. The model adapts to individual users and reduces errors with practice. Decoding happens locally, in many designs, limiting data sent to the cloud and strengthening privacy-preserving interfaces.
Bone-conduction audio
Feedback uses bone-conduction audio so responses reach the user without audible sound. Bone-conduction audio keeps conversations private in public and supports fast, silent corrections. Combined with the silent speech interface, it creates a seamless, hands-free loop.
Who benefits
The AlterEgo silent communication wearable targets people who need quiet control and those with speech impairments. It can speed interaction for commuters, traders, and people in noisy or quiet environments. The design aims to be practical, wearable, and respectful of user privacy.
Public unveiling
AlterEgo credits the MIT Media Lab 2018 prototype as its foundation and will present updates at the Axios AI+ Summit in Washington, D.C. This public debut will show how the non-invasive interface performs in real demos.
Frequently asked questions about AlterEgo silent communication wearable (FAQ)
Q: Is the device invasive?
A: No. The AlterEgo silent communication wearable is non-invasive and sits on the face and jaw.
Q: How accurate is decoding?
A: Accuracy improves with personalized training and local machine learning decoding.
Q: Who can use it?
A: Anyone, especially people needing speech impairment assistance or quiet device control.
Q: Will it record conversations?
A: The system is designed to register intentional neuromuscular signals only, limiting unwanted capture.
Sources to this article
Kapur, A., 2018. AlterEgo: A wearable silent speech interface. MIT Media Lab.
Axios, 2025. Axios AI+ Summit program, Washington, D.C., 17 September 2025.
