Elon Musk’s brainchild, Neuralink, recently made headlines by filing a trademark application for some intriguing names, including “Telepathy” and “Telekinesis.” Their intent-to-use (ITU) application shows they’ve got some exciting plans up their sleeves for the near future.
(Source: https://www.linkedin.com/company/neuralink)
A Vision Unfolding
Neuralink was founded back in 2016, with Musk gathering a dream team of neuroscientists, biochemists, and robotics experts to tackle the ultimate challenge: merging human brains with computers. After acquiring the name Neuralink in 2017, Musk pushed forward with a relentless spirit. Following years of animal testing, Musk received approval from the FDA to conduct testing on humans in May 2023, which kicked off in early 2024. Musk has expressed that the company’s brain-computer interface (BCI) is aimed at helping people who have paralysis, but has also expressed a long-term vision of a human-AI symbiosis. Musk has publicly stated that the goal of Neuralink and the BCI is to “redefine the boundaries of human capability” and “unlock human potential.”
How it Works
So, how does this BCI magic happen? It revolves around a brain implant that picks up neural signals from its host and transforms them into code, allowing the user to translate thoughts into computer cursor movements. Imagine playing chess on a computer screen through just your thoughts. Well, guess what? That’s precisely what the first recipient, Noland Arbaugh, has been doing, even while being quadriplegic. The first two patients, who had spinal cord injuries, have also used the BCI for eye control, further showcasing the potential of this groundbreaking technology for both neuroscience and human-computer interaction. Recently, a third patient received the implant, and all three individuals are showing positive progress.
(Source:https://www.npr.org/2024/01/30/1227850900/elon-musk-neuralink-implant-clinical-trial)
Trademark Talk
Neuralink has recently taken a significant step by filing Intent to Use (ITU) applications for the company’s trademarks “Telepathy” and “Telekinesis.”
The goods and services listed for the Telepathy trademark application reveals a fascinating vision: it refers to an “implantable brain-to-computer interface designed to facilitate communication and control of software and hardware.” This innovation holds the exciting potential to transcend traditional assistive technology, possibly enabling real-time, telepathy-like communication between individuals through this advanced BCI.
To have a chance at registering its trademarks, the company needs to show its genuine commitment to developing and commercializing these cutting-edge BCIs. Following the issuance of a Notice of Allowance, the company may need to submit a Statement of Use (SOU). If the company requires more time to provide this evidence, it may have up to five extension requests, granting them a total of around three years to submit the SOU before a Certificate of Registration may be issued.
Facing the Music: Ethical Concerns
Of course, with great power comes great responsibility. Neuralink is facing some heavy criticism concerning the ethics of introducing BCIs into the consumer market. Critics express concerns over privacy, security, and even the scary thought of “mind control.”
In light of recent trademark news surrounding the branding of their products, it will be crucial for Neuralink to not only address these ethical concerns but also to ensure clear communication about their innovations. It will be essential to navigate these ethical dilemmas thoughtfully to ensure that its implementation is both safe and beneficial for society. After all, if we can connect our brains to technology, maybe one day we can finally get our brains to stop buffering during important meetings!