Technology

Cybernetics | Prosthetics | Implants

The Augmentation Boom

This a period of time where this technology became much more readily available to the everyday person in terms of both supply and cost. Initially, prosthetics were mainly used for those who needed them for medical purposes, but eventually became popular among those who desired prosthetics for non-medical or aesthetic reasons.

A majority of prosthetics are created to mimic everyday, typical use. For example - replacing an amputated arm with a prosthetic one will for the most part, only restore their ability to use the arm like normal. Some prosthetics are created with the intent of surpassing human capabilities. Perhaps the amputee would rather have a prosthetic arm capable of lifting objects heavy enough that a typical human can't.

Certain types of this enhanced technology is limited to only a few groups of people (like the military or police), or are outright illegal due to public safety issues. Despite this, there are black markets that obtain and sell these augmentations through dubious means.

Everyone is able to have a certain degree of augmentation, but some are more compatible with this tech than others, and while there are theories, no one knows entirely why this is the case.

There are medical specialists that typically install these augmentations. Some are in-house corporate specialists, providing high-quality but discounted services in exchange for corporate loyalty. Some legally operate independently, or are part of a chain owned by large cybernetic manufacturers. With some digging, there are also "professionals" who work on the black market, providing installation of illegal augmentations and shady services.

Cyberbrains

Cyber-brains are sort of the "cell phone" of the current times in terms of commonality and necessity. This is when a normal brain is augmented with electronic components. This allows the user to connect to the Net, or with other individuals who also possess a cyber-brain. A majority of the human population has some sort of cyber-brain optimization in varying degrees.

The most baseline form of a cyber-brain is the augmentation that allows basic access to the net, and comes with two to six interface plugs in the back of their neck. Interface plugs allow for direct connection with other computers, networks, and other people's cyber-brains. Sometimes, the brain is encased in thin and lightweight metal to protect it. Along with that, the eyes are replaced with cybernetics, offering crystal clear vision and UI support.

Advanced cyber-brain augmentations are typically added on top of the baseline, providing many enhanced abilities, such as rapid learning, the ability to control more than one android, increased dexterity, etc. Some cyber-brains have a casing made of materials other than the standard - often dependent on the users job or lifestyle. A construction worker may have a higher quality shell that's harder to damage, due to the possibility of head injuries. Or someone who works in radioactive environments may have a lead casing.

Users can turn off their connection to the Net at will, switching over to Isolation Mode.

The Net

The virtual space where you can access the internet, where nearly everyone is now deeply connected to. Nowadays mostly accessed via cyberbrain. While a great technology, it is a host to many nefarious hackers and nasty viruses that can infect one's cyberbrain or computer.

Net Terminology:

NetDivers

Name for those who frequent the net, or are heavily involved with hacking.

ICE

Security programs which protect computerized data from being accessed by others.

ICEBox

Mazes

Biomodding

The alien race of this setting has technology capable of biomodding, and is how they look somewhat humanoid in the first place.

Since humans have yet to develop this technology themselves, it is generally considered a luxury for a them to have some form of biomodding, as it is very expensive to do so, and requires use of alien tech. This tech is not common on Earth, so finding a specialist is very difficult unless one has the means to travel to the Alien's space habitat. This is also costly and requires a lot of travel documents and permits, as aliens are very cautious about visiting humans. Due to the lack of resources on Earth (along with going back to the habitat generally being a huge hassle), aliens who leave the habitat also struggle to access biomodding tech.

This advanced technology is also the reason why they live as long as they do, which is an average of 360 human years. While they have the capability to grow new organs to extend their life, the only one they cannot grow in a lab (and maintain already-existing memories) is the brain. Some treatments and supplements do keep the brain sharp and healthy, but it will eventually deteriorate, causing brain death. It is theorized that Vexirians would otherwise be immortal if this wasn't a barrier.