Training the spatially-coded SSVEP BCI on the fly

•Spatial mapping in the human visual pathway is used for a brain-computer interface.•The paradigm can reduce visual strain, as operators do not have to gaze at flickering lights.•Operation starts from a minimal technically required training set (1.5 min calibration time).•Data set continuously grows during operation, increasing BCI recognition accuracy over time.•Higher stability of SSVEP responses correlates with better BCI performance