Neuralink's "Blindsight" Leaps Forward with FDA Breakthrough, Aims to Restore Vision Through Innovation
1min read Neuralink, the brain-machine interface company under Elon Musk, has announced a significant milestone with its experimental "Blindsight" device, receiving the U.S. FDA's Breakthrough Device designation. The recognition is anticipated to expedite the development and evaluation of devices aimed at restoring vision for individuals who have lost their eyes or optic nerves.
The company's Blindsight technology leverages experimental implants to potentially restore sight, even for individuals born without vision. Musk highlighted the focus on vision restoration, expressing confidence that the device could eventually help congenital blind individuals see, due to the presence of the visual cortex.
Musk shared that this technology has already shown promise in trials involving monkeys. Initial resolutions may be low, akin to early video game graphics, yet there is potential to surpass normal human vision. Importantly, no animals have suffered death or severe injury during trials with Neuralink devices.
Founded in 2016, Neuralink has made headway in the realm of brain-machine interfaces, developing implants that facilitate interaction between the human brain and machines. The company reportedly surpassed a valuation of $5 billion by mid-2023 as it pursued solutions like Blindsight and its first technology, Telepathy.
In early 2023, Neuralink conducted its first human implant trial with patient Noland Arbaugh. The interface intended to control devices via thought alone, initially aimed at assisting individuals with limb loss. Despite encountering issues with the initial implant, such as wiring retraction, Neuralink reports stable use following corrections.
Progress in Neuralink's second implant trial has been encouraging, with subjects able to control computer cursors through thought within minutes and demonstrating proficiency in video gaming and CAD software. The advancement signifies a substantial leap towards enhancing digital interaction for those with paralysis.
Musk has projected the continuation of human trials, anticipating up to 10 implant procedures within the year, underpinning Neuralink's commitment to pioneering brain-machine interface technology.