What is Neuralink?
Nuralink is a new type of technology that promises to create a brain-machine interface which can have a wide range of applications. This could include usage for medical treatments and a faster connection to your phone.
What are the Applications?
Nuralink is curently in testing to help treat people with paralysis. The hope is that through the implant, there will be a seamless connection between the individual and their mobile devices, computers, and even their prosthetics. Additionally, there are some who belive that the device could eventually be used to treat mental illness through stimulation of different areas of the brain. Click here to see the different uses.
How does Nuralink work?
Nuralink works by having a chip implanted into a brain via a specialized robotic machine. This robot can operate at a level of precision and reliability unmatched by human neurosurgeons. After installation an app connected to the brain implant would allow for control of a mobile phone, keyboard, mouse, etc. The website claims that you can operate these technologies simply by thinking about it. They also claim that the implant will have the ability to connect to bluetooth. This brain machine interface (BMI) will stimulate certain parts of the brain whilst reading neural activity to determine the intended movement. See the science here.
When Will It be Ready?
Currently Neuralink has been testing their technology on animals such as pigs and monkeys with sucess at accurately reading and interpreting nural stimuli. Human trials have reportedly not started as of yet because of the pending FDA approval. Once approved, human trials are expected to begin on people suffering from full-body paralysis. These initial trials will be intended to prove an accurate connection between the chip and the connected device. See it in action in this Youtube Video.