Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk shared the exciting news, revealing that Neuralink, his neurotechnology startup, has successfully installed a brain implant in its first human patient. The co-founded company aims to establish direct communication channels between the human brain and computers.
Musk expressed optimism about the magnificent development, stating that the initial results show promising neuron spike detection. Neuralink’s overarching goal is to enhance human capabilities significantly, address neurological disorders like ALS or Parkinson’s, and potentially achieve a symbiotic relationship between humans and artificial intelligence.
The “Link,” Neuralink’s implant device, approximately the size of five stacked coins, is placed inside the human brain through invasive surgery. Musk confirmed that the first human recipient of the implant is recovering well. Last year, Neuralink secured approval from US regulators to initiate testing of its brain implants in people.
In contrast to Neuralink, other players in the brain-machine interface research field, such as Synchron, have explored less invasive approaches. Synchron, based in Australia, implanted its first device in a US patient in July 2022. Musk’s Neuralink has garnered attention not only for its ambitious goals but also for securing significant investments, with over 400 employees and at least $363 million raised, according to Pitchbook data.
While Neuralink faces competition in the brain-machine interface research arena, Musk’s recent announcement underscores the company’s progress and the potential for transformative advancements in neurotechnology.