Neuralink, the brain-chip startup founded by Elon Musk, has successfully implanted a brain chip in a human patient who has fully recovered. Elon Musk shared this development during a social media event, revealing that the patient can now control a computer mouse using their thoughts. While the patient's complete recovery was mentioned, specific details about the neural effects were not provided. This breakthrough marks a significant advancement in neurotechnology, allowing individuals to interact directly with computers and technology using their thoughts.
Neuralink has faced scrutiny regarding safety protocols, and recent reports indicate that the company received fines for violating transportation rules established by the U.S. Department of Transportation for the movement of hazardous materials.
This development follows previous news where Neuralink announced they were granted Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorisation to begin clinical trials. Neuralink's long-term goals include treating various medical conditions ranging from mobility impairments due to paralysis to psychiatric disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's Disease, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, chronic pain syndromes, addiction, eating disorders, sleep disturbances etc.
Neuralink's brain-computer interface (BCI) operates based on principles of capturing and interpreting electrical signals produced by the brain's neuronal activity.
In essence, Neuralink seeks to establish two-way communication between the brain and external devices, facilitating both receiving inputs and sending output commands directly linked to intentions rather than requiring explicit muscle activation.