In a groundbreaking development in the field of neurotechnology, Casey Harrell, a patient with ALS, has become the first individual to utilize a brain-computer interface (BCI) as a “power user.” Harrell has had a set of electrodes implanted in his brain for nearly three years, allowing him to communicate through the device since 2023. This innovative technology has enabled him to express himself independently while also engaging in activities like web browsing and fulfilling job responsibilities. Harrell’s experience challenges the notion that ALS patients must accept limited aspirations; he states, “Living with a disease like ALS, you are supposed to have diminished dreams. I do not.” The team behind the BCI refers to him as a pioneering figure in speech technology, planning further enhancements to the device based on his feedback.
In parallel, South Korea’s relationship with artificial intelligence (AI) diverges significantly from that of many Western countries. While skepticism and concern about AI are prevalent in the United States, only 16% of South Koreans express apprehension about AI, according to a recent Pew Research Center survey. In fact, half of the respondents in South Korea conveyed excitement about AI’s potential. This enthusiasm stems from a strong belief that technological advancement is vital for the country’s modernization and global competitiveness. As South Koreans eagerly embrace AI, their dedication to remaining at the forefront of technological innovation is evident, setting a positive tone for future developments in the field.
Source: The Download: the first brain implant power user and South Korea’s AI obsession via MIT Technology Review