Some particular examples Microsoft used was the viewing of advertisements or using certain internet service in order to stimulate brain activity. And then using said activity to further the mining process. It doesn’t end there either; Microsoft’s patent goes on to suggest other biological functions, including “body fluid flow” and “organ activity and movement” to track other non-cryptocurrency tasks. Including social media, search engines, and email among other tasks.
As far as “unique” mining methods go, however, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that this isn’t the kookiest method to actually be suggested. And as with all patents, there’s no telling when or even if Microsoft’s concept will ever see become a reality. Also more often than not, the submission of such patents are just ways for tech giants to defend themselves against any potential copyright infringements. (Source: USPTO via PCMag)