Elon Musk’s Neuralink has been beaten to the punch yet again, this time by brain-chip company Synchron. In an astonishing new feat, the startup managed to complete the “first-in-human implant of an endovascular BCI in the U.S.”
Synchron completes first in-human brain computer interface experiment
On July 6th, tech startup Synchron beat out Elon Musk’s Neuralink with its latest experiment. So far, Musk’s expensive Neuralink experiment has only been successful with animals such as pigs. However, this new startup has managed its first human implant.
In the experiment, a 48-year-old patient with ALS was implanted with the Synchron chip. As an ALS sufferer, the patient was unable to move or speak due to the disabling disease.
With the implant, the patient can now interact telepathically with computers. Using the permanent 1.5-inch long brain chip, Synchron patients are able to complete purchases online or even send WhatsApp messages.
According to a statement from medical doctor Shahram Majidi, the patient was able to go home after 48-hours. Currently, no side effects have been reported. However, as with any surgery, some may occur in the future.
A push for the future
The creation of computer-controlling brain chips is becoming a major industry. Alongside Synchron and Neuralink, myriad companies are trying to create the best or first commercially available chips.
Following the implantation process, Synchron CEO Tom Oxley explained this this was just the start of the implant industry. In the future, millions could have chips in their head.
“Our technology is for the millions of people who have lost the ability to use their hands to control digital devices. We’re excited to advance a scalable BCI solution to market, one that has the potential to transform so many lives,” he said.
While these forms of brain implants are designed to help people, Musk’s plans for his brain chips are far more grandiose. The Tesla billionaire explained that he wants to combine all humans with artificial intelligence in the future, putting brain chips in every human to make them better.
However, that grandiose claim may be too far-fetched. Similar to projects like Cybertruck, Tesla FSD, Hyperloop and Tesla Bot, Neuralink is just another marketing push from Musk at the moment.