Elon Musk's Neuralink has achieved a milestone with its first human brain implant, advancing Musk's vision of enabling mind-controlled computers.
Neuralink Overview:
Founded in 2017 by
Elon Musk, Neuralink is developing a brain-computer interface technology. This innovation aims to assist individuals with severe injuries in controlling digital devices through thought, using electrodes implanted in the brain.
Previous Electrode Implants:
This technology is not new; it has a history of aiding treatment for paralysis, epilepsy, and Parkinson's, with notable predecessors like the Utah array used in humans since 2004. Neuralink, however, has exceeded previous electrode counts, promising more precision by targeting individual neurons.
Regulatory Status:
The FDA granted Neuralink human clinical trial approval in May of the previous year, despite criticism from animal welfare organizations over earlier animal tests.
Functionality:
Neuralink's device comprises over a thousand electrodes and is installed within the skull. It wirelessly transmits brain signals to a dedicated app that translates them into digital commands, and it charges wirelessly. Custom robots are used to delicately place the implant.
Musk's Ambitions:
Initially, Neuralink aims to assist paralyzed patients, with future prospects of aiding those with sensory impairments. Musk envisions the technology could eventually facilitate human-AI symbiosis.
Device Name:
Musk has announced the device will be known as "Telepathy."
Human Trial Goals:
The inaugural human trial will focus on refining the device's design. Although Neuralink has been optimistically forecasting 11 surgeries within the year, its timelines have historically been ambitious.
Study Duration:
Such studies usually involve 5-10 patients and span up to one year. Following steps include feasibility and pivotal studies akin to Phase III drug trials. Commercialization could take 5-10 years, assuming successful outcomes.