Other companies doing similar work are farther along in the research process – for example, one firm called Synchron has been enrolling and implanting people in its trial since 2021. Sychron said earlier this year that early human testers of its brain implant device, all of whom previously suffered from “severe paralysis,” were able to use the device to control a personal computing device for “for routine digital activities” such as texting, emailing and online shopping.
The concept of having a device implanted in one’s head might seem like a future science fiction movie. I would assume not everyone will be rushing to get this type of implant. Putting aside the initial fear and reservations on having an electronic device implanted in one’s body, I can see numerous advantages for this technology. This technology could revolutionize the medical industry giving doctors and scientist new ways to understand research and make predictions on the human body. Additionally, this technology could be used to restore communication of the nervous system for people who have suffered from spinal cord injuries or nervous system injuries. Lastly this technology could be used to better understand the brain and show insight into how our brain operates and functions. Personally, I’m looking forward to the development of this type of technology as it has great potential to change the way people interface with technology.