In a major milestone, Neuralink has successfully implanted its first brain-computer interface chip into a human subject. The recipient underwent the procedure yesterday and is reportedly recovering well.
May 31, 2023 news, Neuralink’s team, in close collaboration with the FDA, has succeeded in unlocking up to 16,000 channels for communication between electrodes and neurons through a customized chip.
Neuralink aims to develop a wireless brain chip capable of transmitting neural signals. This first implant marks a huge step toward that goal of seamless human-computer integration.
Initial results are promising, with Elon Musk tweeting that “neuron spike detection” looks good. Neuralink will monitor closely how the embedded threads interface with the brain.
Elon Musk says: “Enables control of your phone or computer, and through them almost any device, just by thinking. Initial users will be those who have lost the use of their limbs. Imagine if Stephen Hawking could communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer. That is the goal.”
Musk outlined potential uses, from controlling devices hands-free to restoring mobility for paralyzed users. He compared it to giving someone with vision impairment the ability to see. The technology could even enable telepathic communication.
Eventually, Neuralink hopes to allow users to control their digital devices simply by thinking. This would provide independence to those who have lost limb function.
Musk also suggested the implant could restore vision to those blind from birth by bypassing damaged eyes and stimulating the brain’s visual cortex directly.
While further human trials are needed, this first implant ignites aspirations of Neuralink elevating human potential. If successful, it would profoundly change life for the disabled through thought-controlled computing.
The road ahead still involves scaling manufacturing and proving safety through rigorous medical testing. But Neuralink can now begin collecting real-world brain data to refine their systems.
With a live implant delivered, Neuralink moves closer to its goal of commercializing brain-computer interfaces. This small device could lead to giant leaps in human neurological capability.