German automaker Porsche has developed a brain implant prototype that apparently outpaced Neuralink’s chip in key speed benchmarks. Porsche claims their chip-enabled central brain functions 18 seconds faster than Neuralink’s, setting a new neural circuit record.
While details on Porsche’s chip remain scarce ahead of its unveiling later this year, the company stated it utilizes an unmodified commercial microprocessor with no special enhancements. Porsche also noted the testing conditions were “clinical” when its chip set the new benchmark.
This builds on Porsche’s longstanding reputation for performance and handling in its sports cars. The company was quoted as saying its road cars have been described as “telepathic,” allowing skilled drivers to almost think their way around circuits. Porsche is now applying similar principles to develop rapid brain-computer interfaces.
However, some neuroscientists have expressed skepticism about the validity of these purported neural speed records, absent more transparency. Porsche’s boast comes amidst growing rivalry between tech companies and automakers in advanced brain implant research. The technology could one day enable advanced human-computer interaction for those with disabilities.
