Neuralink, a startup that develops brain chips, has announced the successful implantation of its device in a patient. According to the company’s founder Elon Musk, the patient, who underwent the procedure on Sunday, is in good health.
This leap forward is not only a testament to Neuralink’s ambitions, but also a milestone in the field of brain-computer interfaces (BCI). Last year’s FDA approval for human trials paved the way for this milestone. The underlying goal of these trials is bold but inspiring: to enable patients with paralysis to control digital interfaces such as computer cursors or keyboards using only their thoughts.
The procedure, which is performed with precision by a surgical robot, involves placing an implant in the area of the brain that controls the intention to move. The implant’s ultra-thin filaments are designed to pick up neural signals, transforming thought into action in the digital space. The company has named its first product “Telepathy,” a fitting nickname for a technology that seems straight out of science fiction.
Despite the optimism associated with this development, it is important to recognize that Neuralink has faced scrutiny. Concerns have been raised about the safety protocols used by the company, especially in light of a fine imposed by the US Department of Transportation for improper handling of hazardous materials. Moreover, a group of lawmakers called on the US Securities and Exchange Commission to investigate potential misrepresentations by Musk about the safety of Neuralink technology following reports of side effects in animal trials.
