Unlocking the Potential: Scientists Merge Mini Human Brains to Form a Living Computer

In a world where technological advancements are constantly pushing boundaries, the Switzerland-based startup FinalSpark has taken a bold step by creating a computer processor like no other. Reports from Tom’s Hardware shed light on FinalSpark’s groundbreaking innovation – a unique computer processor made from 16 mini brains crafted from human brain tissue. This “Living computer” is being touted as a revolutionary alternative to traditional silicon-based computing methods.

FinalSpark’s Neuroplatform, the biocomputer at the heart of this innovation, is now accessible to researchers who are eager to delve into the realm of artificial intelligence. This access opens up new possibilities for conducting studies that typically demand extensive resources. Ewelina Kurtys, a scientist and strategic advisor at FinalSpark, highlighted one of the key advantages of biological computing in a recent blog post. She emphasized that neurons have the ability to process information using significantly less energy compared to digital computers, making them a promising avenue for future advancements.

The process adopted by FinalSpark involves taking brain organoids – small samples of human brain tissue derived from neural stem cells – and nurturing them in a specialized environment that sustains their vitality. By connecting these mini brains to specialized electrodes, the startup enables computer processing and digital analog conversions. This transformative approach allows neural activity to be translated into digital information, paving the way for a new era of computing.

While the concept of living computers may seem like something out of a science fiction novel, the reality is that this technology has been in development for quite some time. Just last year, scientists successfully linked neurons to electrical circuits, resulting in a device capable of voice recognition. Living computers offer numerous advantages over their silicon-based counterparts, with a significantly reduced carbon footprint being one of the standout benefits. Kurtys expressed optimism about the potential of utilizing living neurons for computations, citing the dual benefits of enhancing AI model generalization and curbing greenhouse emissions.

FinalSpark’s vision extends beyond its own research endeavors, as the startup hopes to collaborate with other institutions to propel biocomputer research forward. By positioning the Neuroplatform as the next frontier in AI computing, FinalSpark is not just innovating for the sake of advancement but also striving to minimize the environmental impact of technological progress. With the rise of living computers, the future of computing may very well be a harmonious blend of biology and technology, offering a glimpse into a truly transformative era.