Neuralink, the brain-computer interface company founded by Elon Musk, is not currently available in Australia. Even in the United States, the device will need to receive approval from the relevant federal agencies before it can be made available to the public. The FDA released a paper in 2021 outlining its initial thoughts on brain-computer interface devices, noting that the field is “progressing rapidly”.
Neuralink is currently conducting clinical trials into how quadriplegic patients can better use their computers. The company is still recruiting participants in the US. The trials involve small, cosmetically invisible implants being placed in a part of the brain that plans movements. These devices interpret a person’s neural activity, allowing users to operate a smartphone or computer just by “thinking” about how they would move the mouse or tap the screen. No wires or physical movement are required to make it work.
Neuralink Human Trials
The recent announcement marks the first time that Neuralink has operated on human trials. Musk claimed on X, that their initial results at detecting “neuron spikes” were promising. However, the company has faced criticism for rushing to market, resulting in careless animal deaths and a federal investigation. At the time, Neuralink did not respond to CNN’s request for comment.
Previous studies have used live monkeys to manipulate computers with their minds. Now the company has widened their trials to patients with spinal cord injuries or even amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS.
Neuralink Development
The technology has been in development for decades, with the first studies into electrical activity in the brain taking place as early as 1929. Musk has forecasted human trials at the startup at least four times since 2019, yet the company didn’t seek FDA approval until 2022. At that time, the agency rejected the bid citing safety concerns about parts of the implant migrating to other parts of the brain and possible brain tissue damage when the devices are removed.
Neuralink is a promising technology that has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with computers. However, the company still has a long way to go before the device is available to the public. Clinical trials are currently underway, and the company is still recruiting participants in the US. It remains to be seen how the technology will be received by the public and whether it will be successful in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When was the first Neuralink implantation done in humans?
According to TIME, the first human received a brain implant through Elon Musk’s Neuralink startup on Sunday, January 29, 2024.
What is the purpose of the Neuralink implant?
The Neuralink implant aims to allow humans to control computers with their minds. According to Bloomberg, the implant will also help people with neurological disorders, such as paralysis, to regain movement.
How much is the anticipated cost for a Neuralink implant?
The anticipated cost of a Neuralink implant is not yet known.
Are brain implants currently available to the public?
Currently, brain implants are not available to the public. However, Neuralink’s brain implant is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
What are the potential risks associated with Neuralink brain implants?
The potential risks associated with Neuralink brain implants are not yet known. According to NPR, the first human to receive the implant is recovering well, but the long-term effects are yet to be determined.
How does the Neuralink implant interact with the human brain?
The Neuralink implant interacts with the human brain by connecting to neurons and allowing them to communicate with a computer. The implant is designed to be minimally invasive, with small threads inserted into the brain that are thinner than human hair.
