Thanks for the interesting detailed information about EEG resolution, which I can attest is in accordance with what I have read about neuroelectrical interaction in other contexts.
But what is to me implausible about thinking "phone Mom" and having my computer do it for me is that this scenario envisions an unusually high degree of usability that no consumer-facing software writers have ever achieved. Right now, on a BRAND NEW computer system using mostly application programs recommended by Hacker News readers (for example, I am using Chrome to Web browse), I can't count on my computer doing what I want even if I have my hands on the keyboard or a hand on my mouse. User-interface design appears to be HARD--or at least, it is rarely done right--so I am very doubtful that in five years or even twenty-five years I'll be able to use a computer that really does what I think.
Given the above comment I would be even less optimistic about a computer being able to determine the difference between thinking "I should call mom at some point" or "What a nice phone call I had with mom yesterday" and "call mom right now".
This would take the "butt-dialing" phenomenon to disturbing new levels.
But what is to me implausible about thinking "phone Mom" and having my computer do it for me is that this scenario envisions an unusually high degree of usability that no consumer-facing software writers have ever achieved. Right now, on a BRAND NEW computer system using mostly application programs recommended by Hacker News readers (for example, I am using Chrome to Web browse), I can't count on my computer doing what I want even if I have my hands on the keyboard or a hand on my mouse. User-interface design appears to be HARD--or at least, it is rarely done right--so I am very doubtful that in five years or even twenty-five years I'll be able to use a computer that really does what I think.