Elon Musk's Neuralink venture has demonstrated its latest developments in brain implant technology with a live display using pigs.
A chip device was implanted into a pigs’ brain and linked to a computer, which could then monitor and record neuronal activity in the brain, such as stimulation of the pig’s snout or limb movement.
Viewers could see a visual representation of the activity on a screen which lit up when the neurons were stimulated, accompanied by a beep or crackling noise.
See the live demonstration on YouTube. See also the Neurolink video about animal welfare.
The ultimate aim of Neurolink is to allow humans with neurological conditions or brain injuries to control technology with their thoughts and some experts have told Inverse their views on the research.
Of the decision to work with pigs Mr Musk said on YouTube: "Pigs are actually quite similar to people. So if we're going to figure out things for people, then pigs are a good choice."
Why Is Elon Musk Testing His Brain Implant on Pigs? (9/9/2020) - Popular Mechanics