Stephen Hawking, the renowned theoretical physicist, communicated primarily through a speech-generating device (SGD) or computerized voice synthesizer. Hawking was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in the 1960s, which gradually paralyzed him, leaving him unable to speak or move most of his body.
The speech-generating device he used was a customized computer system that allowed him to select words or phrases using a cheek muscle attached to a sensor. By moving his cheek muscle, he could navigate through a series of menus or software interfaces on a computer screen. Once he selected the desired words or phrases, the device would generate synthesized speech, allowing him to "speak" through the computer's audio output.
Over the years, Hawking's speech-generating device evolved, incorporating advancements in technology to improve its accuracy and functionality. Despite his physical limitations, Hawking's use of the speech-generating device enabled him to continue his groundbreaking research in theoretical physics and to communicate his ideas to the world. His distinctive computerized voice became iconic and recognizable to millions of people around the globe.