Big data approaches to increasing amounts of raw brain data will enable researchers to decode cognitive and emotional states and to elucidate fundamental principles of cognition and memory.¹⁰ Machine learning has implications for neural decoding, including determination of the neural correlates of memory encoding, retention, and retrieval.¹¹ This approach already decoded word formation at an unprecedented rate of 62 words per minute.¹²

The rise of predictive large language models means semantic decoding becomes possible even without brain implants; one has decoded continuous language from fMRI.¹³ This progress suggests that even non-invasive brain recording devices could eventually improve enough to be wearable, reliable and affordable, paving the way for non-medical uses such as employee monitoring.