Neuralink Gets FDA Approval for Human Trials of Brain-Computer Interface
• Neuralink, a brain-computer interface (BCI) startup founded by Elon Musk, recently received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct “in-human” trials for its surgically implanted device.
• The device is designed to help with medical issues such as epilepsy, provide quality-of-life services for disabled persons, and eventually be marketed to the general public as a general-purpose BCI.
• With human testing on the table, Musk’s vision for hybrids of humans and artificial intelligence comes one step closer.
Neuralink Receives FDA Approval
Elon Musk’s brain-computer interface (BCI) startup, Neuralink, has reportedly received approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct some form of “in-human” trials for its surgically implanted brain device. It’s unclear what kind of trials the company is referring to.
Purpose Of The Device
The device is designed to help with certain medical issues such as epilepsy, provide quality-of-life services for disabled persons, and eventually be marketed to the general public as a general-purpose BCI that allows humans to interface with machines via thought and protect us from being replaced by machines.
Previous Testing
Until now, Neuralink had only been allowed to conduct testing on laboratory animals such as monkeys and pigs. The company recently faced a federal probe over alleged animal mistreatment; however, Neuralink denied any wrongdoing, and the investigation appears to have ended quietly. A separate investigation over the alleged transportation of contaminated devices remains ongoing.
Implications For Future AI Technology
With human testing on the table, Musk’s vision for hybrids of humans and artificial intelligence comes one step closer. Developers and entrepreneurs should start considering applications and use cases of a recreational, surgically implanted BCI in preparation for this development.
Conclusion
The recent news that Neuralink has been given FDA approval for in-human trials marks an important milestone in developing technology that would allow humans to interact with machines through their thoughts alone; it could also potentially revolutionize health care by providing better treatments for people suffering from disabilities or chronic illnesses. Developers should start exploring ways this technology can be used safely while still providing benefits far beyond what we currently have available today.
