Elon Musk’s Neuralink has made headlines again, and for good reason. The brain-chip startup recently achieved a significant milestone. On September 17, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted the company’s latest device, Blindsight, its “breakthrough device” designation.
This FDA approval could speed up the development and review process of this innovative technology, which aims to help those who have lost their vision.
What is Blindsight?
Blindsight is an experimental brain implant developed by Neuralink. The device promises to restore vision even for individuals who have lost both their eyes and optic nerve.
Elon Musk himself tweeted about the device, stating that it could allow those who have been blind from birth to see, provided their visual cortex is intact. With the FDA’s breakthrough designation, the development of Blindsight can proceed more rapidly.
How Does it Work?
The device functions by implanting a microelectrode array into the brain’s visual cortex, which processes neural signals. These signals can be converted into images, allowing the brain to “see.” This technology, while still in its early stages, could revolutionize the lives of individuals suffering from vision loss.
Although the initial version of the device may only provide low-resolution sight, similar to Atari graphics, Musk suggests that future developments could enhance it to even surpass natural vision. This breakthrough, however, is just the first step, as the company still requires much research and human trials.
Neuralink is also working on another implant for paralyzed patients to control digital devices using thought alone. With such advancements, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of neurotechnology.
In conclusion, Neuralink’s Blindsight has the potential to change how we perceive vision restoration. This breakthrough is not just about curing blindness; it’s about pushing the boundaries of human capability. With Musk at the helm, the future looks incredibly promising for Neuralink and its groundbreaking innovations.
Earlier this year Neuralink said its second patient got a brain implant.
