FDA Approves Neuralink’s Experimental Device for Human Trials
Elon Musk has revealed that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for Neuralink, his brain-implant company, to test an innovative device designed to restore vision. The device, named Blind Sight, is aimed at helping even those who were born blind to regain their sight.
How Blind Sight Can Help Restore Vision
According to Musk, the Blind Sight device will enable individuals, including those who have been blind since birth, to perceive the world around them. This revolutionary technology could allow them to see just like people with normal vision.
Success with Previous Neuralink Implants
Neuralink has already achieved success in implanting computer chips into the brains of paralyzed individuals, enabling them to perform tasks using only their thoughts. With this success, the company is now focusing on vision restoration, marking another major advancement in the field of neurotechnology.
Potential for Sight Restoration in Blind Individuals
Musk explained in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that Blind Sight will even work for individuals who have completely lost sight in both eyes. Initially, the vision restored might be limited, but as the technology progresses, it could eventually allow users to see more naturally.
Beyond Natural Vision: Infrared, Ultraviolet, and Radar Perception
Musk further shared that, in the long run, the Blind Sight device may provide users with vision beyond the normal human spectrum. This could include the ability to perceive infrared, ultraviolet, and even radar wavelengths, opening up a new dimension of sight beyond what humans can typically experience.
FDA Designates Blind Sight as a Breakthrough Device
Neuralink’s Blind Sight has been granted the Breakthrough Device Designation by the FDA. This designation is reserved for medical devices that offer significant improvements in diagnosing or treating life-threatening conditions. It allows for a faster regulatory process, bringing potentially life-changing innovations to the market more quickly.
Expanding Trials: Neuralink Plans to Implant in Eight More Patients
Neuralink is also planning to extend the trials by implanting the device in the brains of an additional eight patients. This next step is critical to validate the technology and further assess its potential in restoring vision to those who have lost it.
