Neuralink's 'Blindsight' Brain Implant Receives FDA Breakthrough Designation

Overview

• Neuralink's Blindsight implant has been granted 'breakthrough device' status by the FDA, expediting its development and review.
• The implant is designed to enable vision for individuals who have lost their eyes and optic nerve, or were born blind, by bypassing traditional visual pathways.
• Initial vision quality will be low resolution, similar to old video game graphics, but may eventually surpass natural human vision.
• The device works by stimulating the visual cortex with electrical signals, potentially allowing users to see in infrared, ultraviolet, or even radar wavelengths.
• Neuralink has previously tested brain chips for other applications, including enabling paralyzed patients to control digital devices with their thoughts.