Elon Musk seized headlines once again, not for his usual witty comments on X this time, but for 'telepathy,' a debut product of his startup, Neuralink.
The billionaire, took to social media on Tuesday, to announce that his startup has installed a brain implant in its first human patient with 'promising' initial results.
Two years back, the company released a video featuring a monkey playing ping pong solely using its mind. Shortly after, Musk tweeted about the potential of this technology being tested in humans, suggesting its potential to treat paralytic diseases. The company had received both criticism and commendation for the technology. Fast forward to the present, and the buzz surrounding 'telepathy' suggests that the attention it's receiving might be deserved.
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Decoding The Tech And The Heightened Attention
'Telepathy,' Neuralink's debut product seeks to revolutionize human interaction with technology. Neuralink's tech majorly works through an implant called 'Link.' It's like five coins stacked together, that goes inside the brain via an invasive surgery, using robotics by neurosurgeons. The chip comprises multiple insulated wires connected to the electrodes utilized in the procedure.
Elon Musk stated that 'Telepathy' facilitates the ability to control one's phone or computer, and nearly any device, solely through cognitive thought processes.
By tapping into the power of thought, users can effortlessly command their phones, computers, and a myriad of devices. Such innovation holds immense promise, particularly for individuals grappling with limb disabilities or other paralytic challenges.
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"Imagine if Stephen Hawking could communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer. That is the goal," Musk said in a recent post on X.
While some may view the technology as advantageous, concerns about manipulation of brain activity, neurological harm, and privacy breaches through direct brain interfacing are frequently cited as threats. Moreover, just like AI, many of the risks associated with 'Telepathy' may be unforeseen, potentially going beyond human cognition.
The Dilemma Of Innovation
Going beyond mere criticism, it's evident that innovation often incites conflict. When attention leans toward these conflicts, innovation can stall. This is not to say that ethical considerations should be overlooked, but rather to understand that innovation inherently invites both opportunities and threats. In certain contexts, threats may outweigh benefits, as seen with deepfakes. People always find themselves in dilemma, as in such cases nobody is 'too sure,' and perhaps they never will be. Probably, because the crystal ball never existed when it comes to innovation.
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