Neuralink to Test Blindsight Implant for Vision Restoration

Neuralink has commenced the search for volunteers to test its Blindsight device, which aims to restore vision.

We have received Breakthrough Device Designation from the FDA for Blindsight.

Join us in our quest to bring back sight to those who have lost it. Apply to our Patient Registry and openings on our career page https://t.co/abBMTdv7Rh

— Neuralink (@neuralink) September 17, 2024

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted Blindsight breakthrough device status.

Neuralink’s head, Elon Musk, emphasized that the gadget will enable vision even for those who have lost both eyes and the optic nerve.

The Blindsight device from Neuralink will enable even those who have lost both eyes and their optic nerve to see.

Provided the visual cortex is intact, it will even enable those who have been blind from birth to see for the first time.

To set expectations correctly, the vision… https://t.co/MYLHNcPrw6 pic.twitter.com/RAenDpd3fx

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 17, 2024

“If the visual cortex is intact, even those who have been blind from birth will be able to see for the first time,” the billionaire emphasized.

Musk added that initially, the vision will be “low resolution, like Atari graphics.” Over time, it may surpass natural vision and “allow seeing in infrared, ultraviolet, or even radar wavelengths.”

Neuralink is engaged in the integration of brain-computer interfaces (BCI). In January, the startup successfully implanted a brain chip in its first volunteer. Soon after, the individual learned to control a computer mouse with thought alone.

In August, Musk announced the successful completion of a new operation. He noted that his startup’s BCI will not only allow paralyzed individuals to control simple computer interfaces with their minds but also grant exceptional abilities, including thermal or eagle vision.

The second patient, weeks after the operation, learned to play video games and use software for designing 3D objects.

BCI integration is not exclusive to Neuralink. Other companies, such as Synchron, are also integrating neurochips for paralyzed patients.

Previously, a man named Mark learned to control electronic devices with Amazon’s Alexa virtual assistant support using a brain implant.

In July, Synchron integrated OpenAI’s AI into BCI.