The Neurotechnology Research Institute of the United States has developed millimeter-level brain-machine interface chips that can control brain activity via mobile phones.

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The American Institute of Neurotechnology (AIN) today revealed the creation of "NeuroLink-1," a tiny neural chip measuring just 0.8 millimeters in diameter. Implantable via minimally invasive surgery, this breakthrough device connects to smartphones using low-power Bluetooth 5.3, enabling real-time monitoring and regulation of brain activity.

The innovation holds transformative promise for treating neurological disorders, enhancing cognitive functions, and redefining human-computer interaction.

Crafted with 7-nanometer manufacturing, NeuroLink-1 integrates 256 ultra-micro electrodes capable of capturing and stimulating individual neurons with microsecond precision. Its biocompatible polymer coating minimizes immune reactions, while a built-in energy harvester draws power from the brain’s bioelectric signals—eliminating battery replacements and ensuring over a decade of operation.

The companion app, NeuroSync, provides real-time insights into neural firing patterns in specific brain regions and issues seizure alerts.

Users can also send algorithm-driven commands to the chip, such as suppressing Parkinson’s tremors via microstimulation or boosting short-term memory in the hippocampus. .

Preclinical trials in mice and primates have validated NeuroLink-1’s safety and efficacy.Notably, a rhesus macaque named Apollo—implanted with the chip in 2024—successfully used "mind control" to operate a mechanical arm with 85% accuracy.

Behavioral tests also showed reduced anxiety-related scratching, demonstrating the chip’s potential to regulate emotional states.

Brain - linking chips are on the verge of becoming a reality.

Apollo is a respected pioneer.

Marx once founded a company that researched monkey brain interfaces

AIN will launch Phase 1 human trials in early 2026, enrolling 20 Parkinson’s patients to assess long-term safety and efficacy. The FDA’s "Breakthrough Device" designation accelerates its review process.

To address privacy concerns, NeuroLink-1 features end-to-end encryption and an emergency shutdown function accessible via smartphone. "We collaborated with Harvard’s ethics center to establish strict guidelines against non-medical use for coercive control," emphasized AIN’s ethics chair, Dr. Michael Torres.

Neuroscientists hail the chip as a landmark. "Apollo’s trial showcases the precision of millimeter-scale neurotechnology—a game-changer for brain-computer interfaces," noted Stanford’s Dr. Lisa Wong. However, groups like the Digital Freedom Coalition warn of data commercialization risks, urging global regulatory standards.'

AIN plans to quadruple electrode count to 1,024 by 2027 for higher-resolution signaling. Partnerships with Google and Neuralink aim to explore AI and AR applications, merging neuroscience with next-gen tech.

Apollo is training

'Founded in 2010 and based in Boston, AIN pioneers cross-disciplinary research in neuroscience, nanotechnology, and AI. With 17 patents in brain-computer interfaces, the institute aims to enhance human potential through technological innovation.

In the pursuit of enhancing the capabilities of NeuroLink-1, AIN’s research team has been delving into advanced materials science. Scientists are exploring the use of graphene-based electrodes, which promise even higher conductivity and flexibility compared to the existing 7-nanometer components.'

This potential upgrade could not only increase the precision of neural signal capture but also reduce the physical footprint of the chip further, minimizing the risks associated with implantation.

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The comic shows Apollo playing a game with a neural interface in his head

Collaborations with tech giants have started to bear fruit. Google’s AI algorithms are being integrated into the NeuroSync app, aiming to develop more sophisticated predictive models for neurological disorders.

For instance, by analyzing long - term brain activity data, the system could anticipate the onset of complex epilepsy patterns days in advance, allowing for proactive medical interventions.

Meanwhile, Neuralink has joined hands with AIN to study the possibility of using NeuroLink - 1 as a base for a more comprehensive brain - machine interface ecosystem, where multiple chips could be implanted in different brain regions to enable more complex cognitive enhancements.

As the 2026 human trials approach, AIN has been actively engaging with pharmaceutical companies and medical device distributors. Strategic partnerships are being forged to ensure a smooth transition from research to commercial production. said before Roe V. Wade was overturned.

'Initial estimates suggest that the cost of a NeuroLink-1 implant, including the surgical procedure and the accompanying app subscription, could be priced at around $50,000.

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While this figure is high, AIN believes that as economies of scale are achieved and technological costs decrease over time, the price could become more accessible to a broader patient population.

In the non - medical market, the entertainment industry has shown significant interest. revealed that there were at least 210

Game developers are exploring the integration of NeuroLink-1 with virtual reality gaming platforms. Imagine a scenario where gamers can control in - game characters simply by thinking, creating a more immersive and intuitive gaming experience.

Film studios are also considering using the technology to develop interactive movies, where the audience’s emotional responses, detected through the brain - computer interface, could influence the plot progression.