The tiny brain implant which lets humans use technology with their minds is coming

Virgin Radio

31 Jan 2023, 13:48

How's this for some brain-boggling computer-based news? Scientists have developed a minuscule brain implant which enables people to control technology with their minds. The Precision Neuroscience developed chip, thought to be smaller than a human hair, will allow people to take charge of computers with their brain.

Sound a bit too tech heavy? The aim is to be able to let people with disabilities or paralysis use technology without a keyboard or mouse. The chip will help them to communicate easier and is removable and can even be upgraded.

This 'hands-free' approach is similar to Elon Musk's Neuralink, but the new chip will sit on the brain rather than in the tissue. Although it sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, it's less invasive and works by 'cutting a thin slit in a human skull and sliding the chip in'.

The Layer 7 Cortical Interface implant will allow a human to 'control digital devices with neural signals', which means a cursor can be moved across a screen or words can be typed without the aid of a keyboard.

Formed of six cellular layers that make up a person's cerebral cortex, the tech company believes the implant will function as an additional layer.

Human testing is being carried out in a few months, with the Neuralink brain implant already enabling monkeys to use computers with their minds.

Brain implant company, Synchron, is also putting their chip through trials with the hope of letting six paralysed people navigate the device.

A second human trial hoping to treat depression is also underway, which involves 'sending small electrical pulses into the brain', similar to the treatment of Parkinson's and epilepsy.

In other tech news, do you know what the 'i' in Apple iPhone means?

Topics: Technology, Health, Science