Until recently, controlling a machine directly with one’s mind seemed like a distant possibility; today, this technology is already being tested in humans. One of the best-known companies in this field is
Neuralink, co-founded by Elon Musk. Its initial goal is not to transform healthy individuals into walking computers; rather, the primary application currently under investigation is helping people with paralysis control external devices.
To understand how this works, we must look at a fundamental characteristic of the brain: when a person intends to move their hand, specific regions of the brain produce patterns of electrical activity linked to that intention. Even when an injury prevents these commands from reaching the muscles, some of this brain activity may persist—and it is precisely this signal that a brain-computer interface seeks to interpret.
Neuralink’s device, known as the N1, uses implanted electrodes to record activity in brain regions associated with movement. These signals are transmitted to a computer system that employs algorithms to identify patterns corresponding to the user’s intentions. Following a process of calibration and training, this information can be used for tasks such as moving a cursor or selecting items on a screen.
The company’s first clinical study, called PRIME, began investigating the safety and capability of the system to enable individuals with paralysis to control computers. Results have since emerged in public demonstrations, showing patients interacting with digital interfaces using brain signals. Recently—as I shared here on my blog—it was demonstrated that humans can now access Grok, Musk’s artificial intelligence, to make phone calls; however, an essential distinction must be made.
The Neuralink chip does not read all of a person’s thoughts; rather, it records signals from specific regions of the brain and attempts to interpret patterns associated with particular tasks. This process requires training, computational processing, and controlled experimental conditions. Furthermore, the device cannot freely access memories, feelings, or personal information stored within the brain.
Neuralink is not alone in this race. Another company, Synchron, has developed an interface known as Stentrode; it differs in its implantation method—instead of using electrodes inserted directly into brain tissue, the system is introduced through blood vessels and positioned near the regions responsible for movement, capturing brain signals via a different surgical approach.
The company has conducted clinical studies with individuals who have severe motor impairments, exploring the potential for them to control digital devices. Additionally, there is Precision Neuroscience, which is developing interfaces that use arrays of electrodes placed on the surface of the brain—not to mention several Chinese companies that are also conducting highly advanced studies involving human subjects.
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