NEWS  Science  February 20, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

As reported a month ago, Elon Musk's Neuralink has achieved a significant milestone with the successful implantation of a brain chip in a human patient. This breakthrough marked a pivotal moment in the journey towards merging human cognition with advanced computing capabilities. Now the first information on the patient's conditions begin to pour in.

The journey began in May of last year when Neuralink received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to commence the first human clinical study. Fast forward to late January, and the world witnessed the first-ever human implantation of Neuralink's N1 chip, a product of groundbreaking innovation and meticulous research.

 IMAGE CREDIT: WIRED 

Three weeks post-implantation, Elon Musk himself provided an update on the patient's progress during a recent X Spaces talk. As reported by entrepreneur and Tesla investor Sawyer Merritt, Musk revealed that the patient has undergone a full recovery and is now able to control a computer cursor using only their thoughts.

The N1 chip, implanted in the patient's skull, represents a marvel of engineering. Connected to the brain via ultra-thin threads, each thinner than a human hair, the chip houses 1,024 electrodes capable of simultaneously capturing neural signals and stimulating millions of brain neurons. These signals are wirelessly transmitted for processing and interpretation, facilitating seamless interaction between the brain and external devices.

The implications of this technology, known as a brain-computer interface (BCI), are profound. Beyond enabling paralyzed individuals to regain mobility, BCIs hold the potential to restore sensory functions and enhance human capabilities, revolutionizing the way we interact with technology.

Neuralink's endeavors extend beyond chip development; the company has also pioneered the creation of its surgical robot, R1. Designed for precise, rapid, and safe implantation of brain chips, R1 ensures optimal outcomes for patients undergoing the procedure.

While Neuralink's achievements offer hope to countless individuals affected by neurological conditions, Elon Musk's vision extends far beyond medical applications. With aspirations to elevate humanity to the level of artificial intelligence, Musk envisions a future where BCIs empower individuals to unlock unprecedented cognitive abilities, bridging the gap between humans and machines.

As Neuralink continues to push the boundaries of innovation in neurotechnology, the prospect of a symbiotic relationship between humans and technology becomes increasingly tangible. With each milestone, we inch closer to a future where the extraordinary capabilities of the human mind are augmented by the power of advanced computing, reshaping the landscape of human potential forever.

 IMAGES CREDITS: NEURALINK / WIRED