Elon Musk’s Neuralink to Implant ‘Blindsight’ chip in first human by 2025

Syllabus: GS3/ S&T

In News

  • Elon Musk’s brain-chip startup Neuralink has announced ambitious plans to begin human trials of its visual prosthesis device, “Blindsight” by the end of 2025.
    • This brain-computer interface (BCI) aims to restore vision in people who are completely blind.

What is Blindsight?

  • Blindsight is an experimental artificial vision device that:
    • Uses a microelectrode array implanted in the visual cortex of the brain.
    • Bypasses the eyes and optic nerves entirely.
    • Processes visual data from a camera feed and stimulates neurons in the brain’s visual center, enabling perception of images.

About Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)

About Brain Computer Interfaces BCIs
  • A Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) is a computer-based system that:
    • Acquires brain signals
    • Analyzes them
    • Translates them into commands
    • Sends those commands to external devices to carry out a desired action
  • Unlike traditional motor control (e.g., flipping a light switch), BCIs enable users to control devices directly using brain activity, bypassing the body’s muscles and peripheral nerves.
  • BCIs can be broadly categorized as:
    • Invasive: Electrodes are surgically implanted directly into the brain. These offer high signal quality but carry risks associated with surgery.
    • Non-invasive: Sensors are placed on the scalp (e.g., EEG headsets). These are safer but have lower signal quality.
    • Partially invasive: Electrodes are placed inside the skull but outside the brain tissue.

Applications & Challenges of BCIs

CategoryApplicationsChallenges
Medical & RehabAssistive technology for paralysis, ALS, etc.; Stroke & spinal injury rehab; Communication aidsSignal noise in non-invasive methods; Biocompatibility issues with implants
Mental Health & CognitiveNeurofeedback for ADHD, PTSD, etc.; Memory & attention enhancementRequires brain training; Ethical issues in cognitive manipulation
EducationMonitor engagement & cognitive load; Adaptive learning systemsData privacy in learning settings; Standardization of tools
Military & DefenseThought-controlled drones & devices; Cognitive monitoring of soldiersEthical use in combat; Risk of misuse or surveillance
Smart Home & IoTControl devices using brain signalsLatency and reliability issues; Cost and integration complexity
Neuroscience ResearchBrain mapping; Understanding cognition and neural linksRequires high-precision data; Long development cycles
General Enhancement of brain functions and overall efficiency in functionality. High costs; Lack of trained experts; Regulatory and legal uncertainty; Brain data security

Source: IE

 

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