I was recently reading a Wall Street Journal article about how Apple is exploring brain control technology for its devices. It really got me thinking about the direction this technology is heading.
If brain-implant controls can enhance an individual’s quality of life, then surely this represents a major step towards helping people lead more independent, near-normal lives. While the concept isn’t new, it’s clear—at least in my personal, non-medical opinion—that the field is advancing rapidly.
Some notable examples of brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies include:
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) – Used to treat neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and depression.
- Cortical Implants – Designed to record or stimulate activity in the cerebral cortex, aiding in motor or sensory restoration.
- Retinal Implants – Aim to partially restore vision in blind individuals by stimulating the retina or visual cortex.
- Auditory Brainstem Implants – Assist deaf individuals who aren’t suitable candidates for cochlear implants.
- Motor BCIs – Enable users to control external devices (e.g. cursors, prosthetics) purely by thought.
- Memory Prosthetics – Experimental implants focused on enhancing or restoring memory functions.
- Closed-Loop Neurostimulators – Monitor brain activity and adjust stimulation in real-time.
Now, Apple is working with Synchron to help people with disabilities use their products—such as the iPhone—through brain-based control.
What sparked my thoughts on this article was actually a recent episode of Murderbot. David Dastmalchian’s character, Gurathin, is an augmented human with an implanted feed interface. It left me wondering—how far are we from this sort of sci-fi becoming a reality?
With the rapid growth of AI—especially since the first release of ChatGPT—and technologies like self-driving cars, this once-distant future feels increasingly within reach.
However, my primary concern is security. Will brain implants truly be safe? Key risks include:
- Data Sensitivity: BCIs can capture highly personal neural signals—reflecting intentions, emotions, or physical commands—which could be misused if compromised.
- Wireless Vulnerabilities: Most modern BCIs rely on wireless data transmission, making them susceptible to interception, spoofing, or man-in-the-middle attacks.
- Implant Access: In theory, hackers gaining access to a neural implant could disrupt its functionality or send false inputs to any systems it controls.
At the time of writing this post, there are no confirmed reports of such devices—pacemakers included—being hacked.
That said, any medical implant using wireless connectivity could be vulnerable. While cybersecurity isn’t my area of expertise, these concerns frequently cross my mind in my day-to-day work in IT.
What are your thoughts—would you be comfortable with a brain implant if it meant regaining or enhancing everyday abilities?
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