In a huge development in the advancement of technology, Elon Musk’s neurotechnology firm, Neuralink has successfully installed a brain implant in a human.
This brain implant has been dubbed as “Link,” and the first recipient of the implant is recovering well, as confirmed by reports.
What does this mean? How will the brain implant work? Let’s find out!
Neuralink’s First Human Implant Successful
Elon Musk, founder of the American neurotechnology company announced the news on Twitter, “The first human received an implant from Neuralink yesterday and is recovering well.” He also stated, “Initial results show promising neuron spike detection.”
California-based Neuralink operates in the development of implantable brain-computer interfaces. US regulators had given the company a green signal to begin the human trials for the brain implants.
As per reports, Neuralink has ambitious plans to establish direct communication pathways between the human brain and computers.
What is “Link”?
The Neuralink implant, known as “Link,” is a compact device that has been embedded in the human brain through surgical methods. The size of the implant can be compared to that of five stacked coins.
Elon Musk’s Neuralink was established in 2016 and has around 400 employees. It has also earned funds of more than $363 million.
The company’s advancements will be revolutionary in the medical world, especially in the treatments of neurological disorders like ALS and Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, the implants will also help improve human capabilities and bring about a symbiotic relationship between humans and AI.
Musk has also approached Synchron for a collaboration and potential investment. Synchron Inc. is also a brain chip implant developer. Synchron’s first implant was first inserted into a US patient in July 2022. It was a less invasive installation process and did not require the skull to be opened.
Neuralink Undergoes Scrutiny For Safety Protocols
However, Neuralink has faced scrutiny for its safety protocols as confirmed by reports. The company has had to pay fines for breach of US Department of Transportation regulations. These were related to the transportation of hazardous materials.
Additionally, four US lawmakers had requested an investigation by the US Securities and Exchange Commission about Musk’s claims of safety regarding Neuralink’s brain implant.
We will keep you informed as we get any more updates!
