Elon Musk’s Neuralink Achieves Milestone with Human Brain Chip Implant
Neuralink, the brain-science company founded by Elon Musk, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully implanting a quarter-size chip into a human patient. Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to share the news, stating that the unidentified patient is “recovering well” after undergoing the implantation procedure on Sunday.
The quarter-size chip, equipped with dozens of tiny threadlike electrodes, is implanted directly into the brain. These electrodes relay electrical signals from neurons, primarily in the brain’s region controlling the intention to move, as reported by the Wall Street Journal and Reuters.
Neuralink’s “Telepathy” Product Unveiled:
In a subsequent X post, Musk revealed Neuralink’s ambitious project, “Telepathy,” which aims to empower users to control phones and computers through mere thoughts. Musk emphasized that initial users would be individuals who have lost the use of their limbs, envisioning a future where communication surpasses the speed of traditional methods, citing the late Stephen Hawking as an inspiration.
Elon Musk’s Personal Commitment:
Notably, Musk confirmed in 2022 his personal commitment to receive his own Neuralink implant, according to CNBC. This commitment underscores his confidence in the safety and efficacy of the technology.
Regulatory Approvals and Challenges:
Neuralink received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human studies in May 2023, CNBC reported. The company began recruiting participants in September of the same year. Despite these advancements, Neuralink has faced challenges, including accusations of violating the Animal Welfare Act. However, a December 2022 report by Reuters indicated that the Agriculture Department found no violations, except for a self-reported incident in 2019 involving an unapproved sealant used in a monkey’s surgery.
Legal and Regulatory Scrutiny:
In November, Reuters reported that four lawmakers urged the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to investigate Musk for possible securities fraud. Allegedly, concerns were raised about whether Musk misled investors regarding Neuralink’s safety, citing reports of health issues in monkeys with implants, such as brain swelling, seizures, and paralysis.
Compliance Issues and Fine:
Adding to Neuralink’s challenges, earlier this month, Reuters disclosed that the company faced a fine of $2,480 for violating U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) rules related to the movement of hazardous materials. The report revealed that hazardous waste was incorrectly packaged, raising concerns about the company’s adherence to safety regulations.
In conclusion, Neuralink’s recent success in implanting a brain chip in a human marks a significant step forward in the realm of neuroscience. Despite regulatory challenges and legal scrutiny, Elon Musk remains optimistic about the potential of Neuralink’s technology, unveiling the ambitious “Telepathy” product that could redefine human-computer interaction. The journey ahead holds promise, albeit with the need for ongoing compliance and safety considerations.
Neuralink, the brain-science company founded by Elon Musk, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully implanting a quarter-size chip into a human patient. Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to share the news, stating that the unidentified patient is “recovering well” after undergoing the implantation procedure on Sunday. The quarter-size chip, equipped with dozens of…