I found the workshop on sensors fascinating, especially the discussion on brain-computer interfaces (BCI) and their potential uses. While researching I discovered Elon Musk’s latest groundbreaking project: Neuralink. Neuralink was founded in 2016 by Musk with a clear goal: to create brain-machine interfaces enabling humans to directly control computers and other devices. Musk has stated further aims to cure neurological damage, treat mental health disorders and integrate humans with AI.

How does it work?

Neuralink’s N1 device revolutionizes BCI’s with 1,024 implantable electrodes, Bluetooth connectivity and a rechargeable battery. The Link intercepts electrical signals, controlling actions and thoughts in the brain, which scientists decode. The calibrated implant enables device control, like moving a cursor, simply by thinking about it. However, a major challenge is that weak signals are easily corrupted and artifacts from other signals are detected.

Applications:

Neuralink began human trials in January 2024, with three participants who have paralysis. This has shown promising results, allowing them to deliver lectures, play video games for 72 hours, and design hardware for their family business — all through telepathy. I found these breakthroughs heartwarming as it offers new hope for those unable to use their limbs. While researching these trials, I found Neuralink provided surprisingly little information. Bioethicists have warned this ‘Science by press release,…, is not science’. I think that Neuralink’s lack of transparency is troubling as it prevents other researchers building on these findings to improving patient care.

As BCI technologies develop the privacy of our most confidential data- our thoughts, can be captured by these machines. This worries me, because current GDPR laws do not include neural data and the consent for this data may not be in the patient’s best interest. Trial patients may feel pressured to lose their data privacy in exchange for access to more freedom. Furthermore, this data is likely to become a huge target for hackers who could expose not only your passwords, but your thoughts too. 

David Gibbs’ lecture on implants highlighted the balance between revolutionary devices and potential harm, much of which we may not realise until many people have the implant. This made me think more about the key principles of medical ethics, especially how to balance between beneficence and maleficence.

Since Neuralink is innovating across multiple countries with no existing laws, global regulators should address ethical and legal concerns, especially around data security, access, and cognitive enhancements

The Future

“A Neuralink-like device has the potential to enhance human memory, processing speed and cognitive abilities by creating a direct interface between the human brain and digital devices,” -Alcaide CEO of Neaurable. Others have envisioned the ability to download languages into your brain like skills in the Matrix. However, this may produce new inequalities in developing skills with money as the standard. These cognitive enhancements raise some fundamental issues regarding identity and autonomy. If radical changes are made to our brains will individuals retain their identity? And if someone changes their mind can the device be removed?

If these technologies are to be implemented into our everyday lives, all these questions and many more need to be addressed to calm public anxiety.  I personally feel Neuralink’s N1 is an incredible technology able to transform people’s lives, but I have concerns for the future, with who has the power, and if necessary can they be stopped?

I would like to hear from you reader: If you could have a N1 implant that improved your brain function, would you? and why?