Neuralink implants "telepathy" brain chip in seven humans, gains approval for trials in Canada and UAE

Neuralink implants "telepathy" brain chip in seven humans, gains approval for trials in Canada and UAE

Neuralink, the American neurotechnology company co-founded by Elon Musk, has made significant strides in its brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. As of June 19, 2025, Neuralink has successfully implanted its "telepathy" brain chip, known as the N1 Implant or "Link," in seven humans. This development follows the company's FDA approval for human trials in the United States and marks a significant milestone in the company's journey towards commercializing its BCI technology.

The N1 Implant, a coin-sized brain chip, is designed to be surgically embedded beneath the skull. It receives information from neural threads that fan out into different sections of the brain, controlling motor skills and potentially enhancing cognitive functions such as focus, memory, and attention. The implant is equipped with sensors capable of recording and emitting electrical currents, allowing for real-time biofeedback.

Neuralink's latest achievement comes on the heels of the company's FDA approval for human trials in the United States. In May 2023, the FDA granted Neuralink a Breakthrough Device Designation for its claims to restore communication for individuals with severe speech impairments. The company began recruiting participants in September 2023 and has since expanded its trials to include seven human subjects.

In addition to its U.S. trials, Neuralink has also gained approval for clinical trials in Canada and the UAE. This international expansion is a strategic move to diversify the company's market reach and accelerate the development of its BCI technology. The approvals in Canada and the UAE are significant, as they open up new avenues for testing and commercialization in these regions.

However, the development of Neuralink's BCI technology is not without its ethical and regulatory challenges. The company's work raises concerns about privacy, consent, and autonomy, as the technology has the potential to access and manipulate deeply personal thoughts, memories, and emotions. Additionally, the cost of the technology may create accessibility issues, potentially exacerbating health and education disparities.

Neuralink's progress in BCI technology has the potential to transform lives, particularly for individuals with neurological disorders. However, it also forces society to grapple with difficult questions about ethics, equality, and personal autonomy. As the company continues to develop and commercialize its technology, it will be crucial for policymakers to create frameworks that address these challenges and ensure that the benefits of BCI technology are accessible to all.

References:
[1] https://www.verdict.co.uk/analyst-comment/neuralink-ethical-concerns-neurotechnology-implants/
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuralink