Elon Musk, the visionary behind Neuralink, has announced a historic milestone as the company successfully implanted the first human with their brain-chip, and the individual is reportedly recovering well. The FDA granted Neuralink approval in May to conduct the inaugural human trial with their implant.
In a post on X the day after the surgery, Musk highlighted encouraging signals of neuron activity, where spikes indicate the functioning of neurons—cells transmitting information within the brain and to the body through electrical and chemical signals.
Amid discussions ranging from video games to bantering with influencers, Musk unveiled the first Neuralink product named Telepathy. This innovative technology allows device control through thought, catering initially to individuals who have lost limb functionality. Musk envisions a potential leap in communication speed, citing the example of Stephen Hawking typing at remarkable speeds.
The ongoing Prime study focuses on evaluating the safety of Neuralink’s wireless brain-computer interface, although the company faces fines for violating transportation rules, with specific details pending. Musk also introduced a new product, Blindsight, emphasizing eyesight restoration.
Neuralink, valued at $5 billion, obtained FDA clearance for its first human trial in the previous year. Commencing in September, the trial involves a robot surgically placing ultra-fine threads for the transmission of brain signals.
