Mind reading, biometric passwords could soon be a reality

Imagine a world where you don't have to pay power bills because you are able to create energy for your requirements, or you can read the mind of the person sitting next to you.

Or, imagine walking up to an ATM machine to securely withdraw money by simply speaking your name or looking into a tiny sensor that recognises the unique patterns in the retina of your eye.

All this might sound like science fiction but according to technology giant IBM, these could become reality in the next five years.

IBM has unveiled its sixth annual 'IBM Five in Five', a list of innovations that have the potential to change the way people work, live and play over the next five years.

According to the company, technological advances in the coming years will enable people to utilise the energy they create through everyday activities for their power needs.

"Advances in renewable energy technology will allow individuals to collect this kinetic energy, which now goes to waste, and use it to help power our homes, workplaces and cities," IBM said in a statement.

So, imagine attaching small devices to the spokes on a bicycle wheel that recharge batteries as one peddles along. One would not only reach their destination in an eco-friendly manner, but also power some of the lights at their home.

Another innovation IBM believes could soon become a reality is mind reading.

"IBM scientists are researching how to link your brain to your devices, such as a computer or a smartphone. If you just need to think about calling someone, it happens. Or you can control the cursor on a computer screen just by thinking about where you want to move it," IBM said.

Scientists in the field of bioinformatics have designed headsets with advanced sensors to read electrical brain activity that can recognise facial expressions, excitement and concentration levels, and thoughts of a person without them physically taking any actions, it added.

IBM said within 5 years, one would begin to see early applications of this technology in the gaming and entertainment industry.

Also, doctors could use the technology to test brain patterns, possibly even assist in rehabilitation from strokes and to help in understanding brain disorders, such as autism.

Another innovation which could be of significance is not having to remember passwords.

"Your biological makeup is the key to your individual identity, and soon, it will become the key to safeguarding it," IBM said.

So, one will no longer need to create, track or remember multiple passwords for various log-ins.