Elon Musk’s brain-chip startup Neuralink has once again grabbed attention with its latest breakthrough: Blindsight. This experimental device, recently granted special clearance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), aims to restore vision for those who have lost their sight — even those without functioning eyes or optic nerves.
- Blindsight Overview:
Neuralink’s Blindsight device is designed to help people regain vision, bypassing damaged eyes or optic nerves by directly targeting the brain’s visual cortex. - Potential Impact:
According to Musk, Blindsight could even allow individuals who have been blind from birth to see for the first time, as long as their visual cortex is intact. - Initial Limitations:
Musk cautions that the first version of Blindsight will offer low-resolution, pixelated vision, akin to old video game graphics. However, future versions could enhance vision beyond human capabilities. - FDA Breakthrough Status:
The FDA has granted Blindsight “Breakthrough Device” status, which accelerates development and review processes, though commercial approval is still pending. - Neuralink’s Broader Vision:
In addition to Blindsight, Neuralink is developing brain-chip interfaces to help paralyzed individuals control digital devices with their minds.
With FDA clearance, Neuralink’s Blindsight marks a significant step toward revolutionizing vision restoration technology. While the device is still in its early stages, Musk’s ambitious vision for the future hints at the possibility of restoring — and even enhancing — human sight.
