Scientists have made a breakthrough with the creation of a brain implant that could revolutionize the way we interact with technology. The implant, known as the Layer 7 Cortical Interface, is a strip of flexible film material no thicker than a single human hair and has electrodes embedded on its surface.
Unlike traditional brain implants, which require invasive procedures and insertion into the brain tissue, the Layer 7 Cortical Interface sits on the surface of the brain, which makes the procedure much less invasive. This has numerous advantages, including faster recovery times and reduced risks of infection. The implantation process is similar to putting a letter into a box, with surgeons making a tiny slit in the skull and gently sliding the implant in place.
The implant works by collecting brain signals and interpreting them, allowing users to control technology such as computers or social media with their minds. The number of electrodes on the strip can easily be increased, which could pave the way for future treatments of other neurological conditions.
This technology is poised to bring major advancements for paralyzed or mute individuals who are unable to communicate via traditional means. However, it also has the potential to enhance the lives of healthy people by enabling them to control technology with their minds.
The Layer 7 Cortical Interface has successfully decoded brain signals in animal trials and Precision, the company behind the implant, hopes to receive FDA approval for human trials in the near future. The implant is also designed to be reversible, giving patients the option to remove it if they so choose.
Precision’s CEO, Michael Mager, stated in an interview with CNBC, “The tiny slit used for implantation is less than a millimeter thick, which means patients don’t even have to shave their head. I think that’s a big advantage compared to other technologies that require removing a significant portion of the skull. I’ve never met anyone who wanted a hole drilled into their skull.”
The Layer 7 Cortical Interface has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with technology and bring about a new era of accessibility for those who have been unable to communicate via traditional methods. Precision is at the forefront of this technological advancement, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.
