On October 15, 2024, Lenovo and the Scott-Morgan Foundation (SMF) unveiled a groundbreaking AI-powered solution at Lenovo Tech World '24, aimed at transforming communication for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other severe disabilities. This innovation is a step forward in the application of AI for accessibility, embodying Lenovo’s mission to provide "Smarter AI for All."
This assistive technology combines Lenovo’s predictive AI and a custom circular keyboard interface designed by SMF, integrating AI voice replicas from ElevenLabs, realistic avatars by D-ID, and eye-tracking technology from IrisBond. Together, these elements create a unique and personal communication tool, designed to help individuals with severe disabilities connect and express themselves.
The technology’s impact was beautifully illustrated at the event, where a father diagnosed with ALS used the tool to share stories and sing to his children in his own voice. This powerful example of AI’s potential resonated deeply with the audience. Erin Taylor, an ALS patient, disability advocate, and social media influencer, also demonstrated the technology on stage. Through a pre-diagnosis voice replica, Erin shared her journey and hopes for the future of assistive tech, underscoring the transformative role AI can play for individuals with disabilities.
Traditional voice-banking systems for ALS patients have often been limited by a lack of emotional expressiveness. With this new system, however, ElevenLabs' AI-generated voices can capture a range of vocal emotions using only a small set of audio samples. D-ID’s avatars, created from minimal input, add further depth, replicating facial expressions for a truly lifelike experience.
This project, which began as a prototype at CES 2024, has developed into a robust tool that runs on Lenovo's ThinkPad x12. Its portable design and compatibility with IrisBond’s eye-tracking tech make it adaptable to various surfaces, including wheelchairs.
The partnership between Lenovo and SMF aims to redefine assistive tech for ALS and beyond. SMF CEO Andrew Morgan emphasized the importance of continuing advocacy for these tools to empower people worldwide.
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