Elon Musk is back with his latest scheme, and this time he’s looking to experiment with folks’ brains for science (and possibly world domination). 🧟♂️
Approved by the FDA in May, this six-year human trial is set to explore the possibilities of Neuralink's cutting-edge technology, particularly aimed at individuals with quadriplegia due to spinal cord injuries or ALS. They're on the lookout for participants over 22 with a "consistent and reliable caregiver." Because, let's be honest. If you're poking around in someone's brain, you'd better have backup. 🩺
Dubbed the “PRIME Study,” researchers’ focus will be on Neuralink's N1 implant, the R1 surgical robot responsible for implanting the device, and the N1 User App that translates brain signals into computer actions. 🤖
Neuralink has been at the center of controversy for the past few years both because of Musk’s tendency to overstate and underdeliver, and questionable internal practices. As with many things about Neuralink, it can be hard to separate the company’s promises from its plans, but we’re soon going to get our first look at what happens when billionaires start tinkering with brains. 🧠
On behalf of everyone with a brain, we’ll consider giving it a test right after you do, Elon.