Forbes: How Neuralink’s brain chips change the world

Founded by Elon Musk in 2016, Neuralink is one of the most ambitious startups in the field of neurotechnology. This project has the potential to change many aspects of life, from medicine to interactions with technology.

But how exactly is Neuralink changing the world?

One of Neuralink's main areas of focus is the medical application of BCI (brain-computer interface) technology. The devices developed by the startup are designed to treat various neurological diseases and injuries. For instance, Neuralink implants can help paralyzed patients control computers and prosthetics with their thoughts. This technology also has the potential to treat Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and depression.

Neuralink’s technology significantly accelerates scientific research in the field of neurobiology. Neuralink devices provide high-resolution recordings of neural activity, enabling scientists to gain a deeper understanding of the brain and develop more effective treatments for various mental and neurological disorders. This opens new horizons for research and could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain function.

Neural interfaces can radically change the ways humans interact with technology. The ability to control computers, smartphones, and other devices directly through the brain opens new horizons for virtual and augmented reality, education, and even everyday work. For example, people will be able to quickly and efficiently manage complex systems and technologies using only their thoughts, significantly increasing productivity and efficiency.

Ethical and Social Issues

“The development of technologies like those proposed by Neuralink raises numerous ethical questions. One key aspect is the privacy of brain data”.

Technologies that allow the recording and analysis of neural signals can be used to collect highly personal information about users. This raises concerns about the potential for unauthorized access and use of this data. It is important that the development of neurotechnologies is accompanied by strict ethical oversight and regulatory measures to minimize potential risks.

Investment in Neuralink

Neuralink is a private company, and its shares are not currently traded on public markets. The latest valuation of the company is approximately $5 billion. The company has attracted around $643 million in private investments. Major investors include well-known figures and companies such as Peter Thiel's Founders Fund, Sam Altman (founder of OpenAI), and Google Ventures.

According to Observer, Neuralink shares were offered on the private market at $55 each, implying a total valuation of $7 billion. However, it is unclear whether these shares found buyers at the stated price.

Despite the funding, Neuralink does not yet have significant sources of revenue, as the company’s products are still in development and testing stages. However, in May 2023, Neuralink received approval from the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to test its chips on humans, following animal testing. In September 2023, the company announced a volunteer recruitment for the first chip trial. The initial phase of the trial will last 18 months.

The company also faces challenges related to ethical and regulatory issues, including dissatisfaction from some organizations over the treatment of animals during testing. Despite this, FDA approval and ongoing development show the potential for significant growth and market expansion.

These steps have increased investor confidence, and Neuralink has shown high growth rates and attracted investor attention due to its innovative technologies and recent regulatory successes. Investing in the company promises significant prospects, especially as it moves towards commercial implementation of its developments.

Conclusion

Neuralink is one of the most promising startups that could radically change our world. From medical breakthroughs to new ways of interacting with technology, the potential of this company is enormous. At the same time, it is important to consider and address the arising ethical and social issues to ensure the safe and effective use of these technologies. Neuralink is already beginning to change our world, and the coming years may bring even more significant changes and achievements in this field.

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