Microsoft Technology Licensing, the patent arm of Microsoft Corp., has been granted an international patent (WO2020060606) by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) for a novel cryptocurrency mining system that leverages human body activity data. Filed in June 2019 and published on March 26, 2020, the patent proposes an alternative to traditional proof-of-work (PoW) mining: instead of heavy computational work, users' brain waves, body heat, and other biometric signals generated while performing online tasks — such as using search engines, interacting with chatbots, or viewing advertisements — can be used to power the mining process.
Human Activity as Proof-of-Work
The patent states: “A brain wave or body heat emitted from the user when the user performs the task provided by an information or service provider, such as viewing advertisement or using certain internet services, can be used in the mining process.” The system is designed to allow users to “solve the computationally difficult problem unconsciously,” as their bodily reactions become the cryptographic input. According to Microsoft, this method “may reduce computational energy for the mining process as well as make the mining process faster.”
Sensors and Reward Mechanism
The system relies on a variety of sensors to capture body activity data, including functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanners, electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) sensors, heart rate monitors, thermal sensors, optical sensors, radio frequency (RF) sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and cameras. After collecting the data, a verification step checks whether the body activity meets predetermined conditions set by the cryptocurrency network. If validated, the system awards cryptocurrency to the user or to the task operator (e.g., the search engine or website provider).
For example, a search engine or a video streaming service could reward users with cryptocurrency for viewing ads or using free content, using their biometric data as the mining resource. This creates a direct link between user engagement and cryptocurrency generation, potentially transforming online advertising and free-to-use services.
Context and Implications
The idea of using human body heat for crypto mining has been explored before. In 2018, Manuel Beltrán of the Dutch Institute of Human Obsolescence created a special bodysuit that harvested thermal energy from the human body to power a mining computer. However, Microsoft’s patent goes a step further by directly using biological signals as the raw data for proof-of-work, bypassing the energy conversion step entirely.
As of 2026, Microsoft has not announced any concrete product plans based on this patent. The concept has sparked debate in the crypto community: proponents highlight the potential to democratize mining and reduce electricity consumption, while critics raise privacy concerns over continuous biometric monitoring and the high cost of deploying specialized sensors. Microsoft has declined to comment on commercial expectations.