Neurotechnology firm Synchron has integrated its brain-computer interface (BCI) with ChatGPT, making it easier to use. As a result, those who can’t move their limbs can communicate with their minds using a ChatGPT brain implant.
The device facilitates inputting text on devices with their thoughts. As a result, CNET says it helped amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patient Mark to speak with others.
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At the time of writing, Synchron’s implant hasn’t received market approval from the US Food and Drug Administration. Nevertheless, Synchron and similar firms like Neuralink are advancing BCI technology.
ChatGPT brain implant vs. Neuralink
CNET spoke with Synchron CEO Tom Oxley to learn more about the ChatGPT brain implant. He explained that typing out messages word for word with a BCI is time-consuming.
Integrating GPT-4o, OpenAI’s latest large language model, makes communication faster and easier. It provides possible responses by anticipating answers based on past conversations.
This innovation lets a person send a reply with a single “click” instead of typing a message. Moreover, implant user Mark said the medical device has been getting better at providing answers that align with things he’d likely say.
“Every once in a while it’ll drop an f-bomb, which I tend to do occasionally,” he said.
Synchron installs the device with existing medical technologies like stents, which are wire meshes that open blood vessel blockages.
The tech firm uses its stent or “stentrode” to insert the ChatGPT brain implant inside a blood vessel near the brain’s motor cortex. Consequently, it doesn’t require surgery.
As mentioned, other firms like Neuralink are advancing brain-computer interface technology, too. On March 21, 2024, Elon Musk’s company posted a video on X showing the implant in action.
The clip shows its first patient, 29-year-old Noland Arbaugh, playing chess on a computer with his mind. Neuralink’s chip allowed him to move a cursor with his thoughts, letting him move the pieces.
What sets it apart from the ChatGPT brain implant is its focus on moving a mouse cursor. Also, it requires surgery to install. Nevertheless, Synchron and Neuralink are exploring new technology that lets people move tech with their minds.