Social media company Meta Platforms META +0.17% ▲ has developed a prototype wristband that can control computers without touching them. Instead, it uses only small hand movements, or even the intention to move, by reading electrical signals from muscles in the forearm that are triggered by commands from the brain. Interestingly, these signals can appear before the fingers even move, thereby allowing users to control a cursor, open apps, or even write in the air. With practice, users can operate devices simply by intending to perform a gesture rather than physically doing it.

It is worth noting that the technology relies on electromyography, which is a method that has long been used to help amputees control prosthetic limbs. Meta has improved this approach by using artificial intelligence to analyze data collected from thousands of users. As a result, this AI can recognize common patterns in muscle signals and allow the wristband to work “out of the box” with new users. Unlike brain-implant technologies that are being developed by companies like Neuralink, Meta’s method is non-invasive and only requires wearing the device, making it safer and more practical for everyday use.

Unsurprisingly, Meta plans to add this technology to future products, such as smart glasses that can take photos, record video, and play music. The device also has the potential to help people with disabilities. In fact, researchers at Carnegie Mellon are testing it with individuals who have spinal cord injuries. While it feels like “mind-reading,” Meta explains that the wristband does not read thoughts directly but interprets the brain’s intent to move, therefore offering a faster and more natural way to interact with technology.