Elon Musk envisions a future where smartphones are obsolete and communication happens directly through the brain. According to Musk, Neuralink—the brain-computer interface his company is developing—could eventually replace phones entirely. Imagine browsing the internet, sending messages, or even making calls, all with just your thoughts. While it may sound like science fiction, Musk believes the integration of humans and AI is a necessary step for our evolution. Neuralink’s potential stretches far beyond convenience; it could revolutionize medicine, communication, and the way we interact with technology forever. The future Musk talks about is not just coming—it’s being built right now. 

How Elon Musk’s Neuralink hopes to make human brain talk with computers

Elon Musk’s brain-implant company, Neuralink, has won US approval to test on humans.

Here is what to know about the multi-billionaire’s dream project to enable the human brain to communicate directly with computers.

Cyborg future? 

Neuralink is a neurotechnology company co-founded by Musk along with a team of scientists and engineers in 2016 to build direct communication channels between the brain and computers.

The aim is to supercharge human capabilities, treat neurological disorders like ALS or Parkinson’s, and ultimately achieve a symbiotic relationship between humans and artificial intelligence.

Neuralink’s technology would mainly work through an implant called the “Link” — a device about the size of five stacked coins that would be placed inside the human brain through invasive surgery.

The hardware would harbor electrodes capable of both recording neural activity and stimulating specific regions of the brain.

Researchers hope the implant’s powers will also treat paralysis, spinal cord injuries and brain disorders.

It could also potentially blur the line between human consciousness and computing, an idea that has long excited technologists, while feeding nightmares of a dystopian future taken over by cyborgs.

Last year, 78 percent of US adults surveyed by Pew Research said they probably or definitely would not want a computer chip implanted in their brain to process information faster.

According to data company Pitchbook, California-based Neuralink has more than 400 employees and has raised at least $363 million.

Though he wins most of the headlines, Musk is hardly alone in trying to make advances in the field, which is officially known as brain-machine or brain-computer interface research.
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Hit with delays, the tycoon had reportedly reached out to join forces with implant developer Synchron about a potential investment. Its implant version does not require cutting into the skull to install it, unlike Neuralink’s Link.

The Australia-based Synchron implanted its first device in a US patient in July 2022.

Another implant project, but designed for research purposes, is from company Blackrock Neurotech and has also received FDA approval for human testing.

A Neuralink co-founder has also split from Musk and raised venture capital for his own project at a startup called Science.

Other companies seeking to make a play in the sector include BrainCo, Kernel and CTRL-Labs, now a part of Meta’s virtual reality division.

The FDA approval for human testing comes at a great relief for Neuralink which until now had been testing its implants in monkeys and other animals.

Reuters reported in December that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) had opened an investigation into potential violations of the Animal Welfare Act at Neuralink.

The report estimated that Neuralink killed about 1,500 animals, including more than 280 sheep, pigs and monkeys for research since 2018.

The USDA refused to confirm or deny the report to AFP at the time.

Arch rival Synchron reportedly killed only about 80 sheep as part of its research, according to documents seen by Reuters.

Neuralink’s Brain-Interface Technology Takes Root

The first stage in the transition from traditional mobile devices to thought-controlled communication is the introduction of Neuralink’s brain-interface technology. Currently, Neuralink has made significant strides in developing a system that allows for direct communication between the brain and external devices.

At this stage, the technology will primarily be used to help those with severe disabilities, allowing them to control prosthetics or communicate more effectively. But as Neuralink continues to refine its technology, the possibilities expand. Over time, it will allow humans to control not just medical devices, but also everyday technology like computers, smartphones, and even vehicles using only their minds.

The focus will be on implanting small, minimally invasive devices into the brain. These devices will send and receive signals from the brain, creating a direct interface between thought and machine. The technology will be precise enough to interact with the brain’s neurons, allowing for seamless communication between the user and devices.

Brain-to-Brain Communication — Unlocking the Power of Thoughts

Once Neuralink’s technology is established, the next stage will be the development of brain-to-brain communication. This phase will mark a huge leap forward in human interaction. Imagine being able to communicate with others without speaking a single word or typing a single text message. Instead, thoughts will be transmitted directly from one brain to another.

This step will require significant advancements in both hardware and software. Neuralink will need to refine its ability to interpret complex thoughts and emotions and ensure that these signals can be accurately shared between two brains. In this stage, we won’t need smartphones or computers anymore — our brains will become the ultimate communication tool.

While the idea of reading and sharing thoughts may seem like science fiction, Musk’s plan is to make this a reality within the next decade. As the technology progresses, the dream of seamless, instant communication between minds will become more and more achievable.

The End of Traditional Devices — A World Where Thoughts Reign Supreme

The final stage in Musk’s vision will be the complete disappearance of traditional devices. At this point, Neuralink’s brain-interface technology will be so advanced that humans will be able to perform tasks, interact with the digital world, and even communicate with each other entirely through thought.

The implications of this stage are mind-blowing. Instead of relying on screens, keyboards, or voice commands, people will be able to control every aspect of their lives through their thoughts. From operating smart homes to controlling autonomous vehicles, everything will be connected to the brain. Even complex tasks, like managing financial accounts or designing structures, could be done with a simple thought.

This stage will mark the culmination of Musk’s vision for a world where technology seamlessly integrates with the human brain, making traditional devices irrelevant. The focus will be on maximizing cognitive ability, improving mental health, and enhancing communication in ways that were previously unimaginable.

The Future of Communication Is Closer Than You Think

Elon Musk’s vision of a world where thoughts replace traditional devices is nothing short of revolutionary. With Neuralink leading the way, we are on the cusp of a future where human communication, technology interaction, and even relationships will be radically transformed.

As these 3 stages unfold, the potential for innovation and the reshaping of society is limitless. While we are still in the early stages, Musk’s groundbreaking technology will likely change the way we live, work, and communicate forever. The future of human interaction is already on the horizon — and it’s all happening in our minds.