Imagine being able to move a cursor on a screen just by thinking about it! Sounds like magic, right? 🪄 Well, it’s becoming a reality thanks to Neuralink, a company started by Elon Musk.
What is Neuralink?
Neuralink has created a tiny device called the N1 implant. It’s so small, and it has super-thin threads that connect to your brain. These threads pick up signals from your brain and send them to a computer. This means your thoughts can control a computer or other devices! 🧠💻
Who is using it?
Seven people who have trouble moving their bodies because of injuries or illnesses are now using the N1 implant. One of them, named Noland, had a spinal injury. Now, he can browse the internet and send emails just by thinking! How cool is that? 😮
Six more people are part of a special study called the PRIME study at the Barrow Neurological Institute. They’re testing how the implant works in everyday life. Some even use it for work tasks like designing on a computer! 🎨💡
How does it work?
A special robot puts the tiny threads into the brain very precisely. The implant then sends signals wirelessly to devices like computers or tablets. Users have reported that they can control a cursor on a screen with 90% accuracy. That means they can point and click on things almost as well as using a mouse! 🖱️➡️
There are still challenges to overcome, like making the system work for more types of tasks and making it even more accurate. But the progress so far is amazing! 🚀
Other companies and challenges
Neuralink isn’t the only one working on this kind of technology. A company called Synchron has a device called the “Stentrode” that doesn’t require open-brain surgery. Instead, it’s put into the brain through blood vessels. It already has 10 users, and they’re planning to make it work with devices like iPhones and iPads! 📱✨
Another company, Precision Neuroscience, is exploring ways to make brain-computer interfaces without any surgery at all! 🎯
Neuralink is still waiting for full approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. This means their implant is only available for people in clinical trials right now. Some people are also asking questions about safety and privacy. For example, who owns the data from your brain signals? 🤔
Why is this important?
This technology could change the lives of people who can’t move or speak. It could help them communicate and interact with the world in new ways. But it also brings up big questions about how we use technology and how it affects our bodies and minds. 🌐❤️
The future is exciting!
As Neuralink and other companies continue their work, we might see even more incredible developments. Maybe one day, controlling devices with our minds will be as normal as using a smartphone is today! 📲✨
What do you think about this brainy technology? Would you like to control your computer with your mind? Share your thoughts! 🗣️💭
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
