Connection, in every form

ALS Communication Technology

Comprehensive guide to eye trackers, head tracking, BCIs, and assistive software. Based on real feedback from PALS and caregivers.

Voice Banking

Create a synthetic voice clone before speech declines. Eligible people with ALS/MND can apply for free access through the ElevenLabs Impact Program.

Apply for Free Access

Quick Recommendations

1 Trial the tracker with its compatible software; Tobii 4C and Eye Tracker 5 need OptiKey Classic v3
2 Always have an Alphabet Board as backup
3 Look to Speak Android app + Bluetooth Speaker

Eye Tracking Devices

Eye gaze technology for ALS communication when hand/voice function is lost.

Low-Tech Solutions

Simple and reliable

Spatial Alphabet System

No-tech communication using room gaze zones - for bedridden PALS

Spatial Room Zones

Room Gaze Zones

Physical Alphabet Board

Physical Alphabet Board

How It Works

From the PALS' bed, the room is divided into gaze zones. Where the PALS looks indicates which letter group they want to select.

Top Left Corner Group 1: A B C D E F
Left Wall Group 2: G H I J
Front Wall Group 3: K L M N O P
Top Right Corner Group 4: Q R S T
Right Wall Group 5: U V W X Y Z
Ceiling / Fan Numbers: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Usage Tips

  • Word Length First: PALS looks at ceiling/fan → caregiver asks "How many letters?" (1-9) → then start spelling
  • Common Words First: Always try common daily words before using spatial alphabet
  • Practice: Once adapted, eliminates need for physical alphabet board

simple explanation: "Imagine dividing the room into 6 zones. When PALS looks at top-left corner = letters A-F. Left wall = G-J. Front wall = K-P. Top-right = Q-T. Right wall = U-Z. Looking at ceiling fan = numbers. Before spelling, PALS looks at fan to indicate word length, then we start guessing!"

Head Tracking Devices

For PALS who retain head movement.

Free & Open Source Software

Free and open-source options, with licence and compatibility details for each tool.

Mobile Apps

Smartphone and tablet apps for communication.

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)

Research access and everyday availability

These communication systems remain investigational. Eligibility and study location determine access. Research hardware sales or clearance of an electrode component do not mean approval of a complete home communication system. There is no confirmed general-release date.