Elon Musk’s Neuralink Corp. has successfully performed its first brain implant on a human, marking a significant milestone in the company’s mission to enable individuals to control computers with their minds. Furthermore, Musk has unveiled the name of the implant device, calling it Telepathy. Here is everything you need to know about Neuralink and its groundbreaking human trial:
Neuralink is a startup founded by Elon Musk in 2017. The company aims to develop a brain-computer interface that can assist individuals with traumatic injuries in operating phones and computers solely through their thoughts. This involves the implantation of electrodes into the brain.
Although the idea may sound intimidating, similar technology has been in development for years. Neuralink builds upon decades of research and technological advancements focused on implanting electrodes in human brains to interpret signals and treat various conditions such as paralysis, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease. Competitors like Synchron and Precision Neuroscience have also entered this field.
Neuralink’s device distinguishes itself by containing over 1,000 electrodes, a significantly higher number compared to other existing implants. It specifically targets individual neurons, allowing for a greater level of precision in decoding brain signals.
But how does the Neuralink device actually work? The chip and other electronics are implanted inside the user’s skull, and wireless communications transmit brain signal data to a Neuralink app. The app then decodes these signals into actions and intents, enabling users to control external devices. The device can also be charged wirelessly. Neuralink has even developed a customized surgical robot to carry out the implantation procedure.
Initially, Neuralink aims to assist paralyzed individuals. However, Musk envisions a broader scope for the technology, with hopes of eventually helping those who suffer from hearing and vision loss. Furthermore, Musk’s futuristic vision extends to merging humans with artificial intelligence.
Regarding the human brain trial, its purpose is to refine the design of the device. Neuralink plans to perform a total of 11 surgeries this year, although past projections from the company have proven overly optimistic.
These trials typically involve 5-10 patients and can last up to a year. Following the trial phase, a feasibility study will be conducted, followed by a pivotal study comparable to the Phase III testing of pharmaceuticals. If all goes well, it may take anywhere from five to ten years before the commercialization of Neuralink’s technology.
In conclusion, Neuralink’s recent brain implantation on a human represents a significant achievement in the field of brain-computer interfaces. With the potential to revolutionize the lives of paralyzed individuals and address conditions such as hearing and vision loss, Neuralink’s endeavors are poised to reshape the future of human-computer interaction and potentially mold the boundaries between humans and artificial intelligence.
Note: This article is based on publicly available information and does not reflect personal opinions or endorsements.
