A new published patent application from Microsoft relates to a cryptocurrency mining system that uses body activity data.

Microsoft's system provides users with tasks in the form of "mining challenges" with cryptocurrency rewards. The system analyzes activity including brain waves and body heat emitted from a user when the user is performing tasks. Unlike traditional mining systems, which require massive computational work, this system uses data generated based on the body activity of the user as proof-of-work. This enables users to solve any computationally difficult problems unconsciously.

This application was published during a time where the majority of U.S. citizens are adhering to various stay-at-home orders and social distancing practices. With gyms closing and more and more people are turning to working out at home, Microsoft's system has the potential for people to mix exercise with cryptocurrency mining.

Microsoft is currently the holder of 36 patent and patent applications in the Cryptocurrency Sector, with this being the first patent application classified under the "mining" subcategory.