$35K 'Brain in a Box': Cortical Labs Unveils Living Biological Computer
Introducing the CL1: A Brain in a Box
Cortical Labs is revolutionizing technology with their latest innovation, the CL1. Priced at around $35,000, this advanced system offers a unique experience by housing a living brain in a compact box. Users can teach the CL1 to perform a variety of tasks, making it a versatile tool for both enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Affordable Access with Wetware-as-a-Service
For those who find the CL1’s price tag a bit steep, Cortical Labs offers an alternative with their Wetware-as-a-Service. This option allows users to rent bio-computer processing power from a rack of living tissues connected to machines. Hosted in the cloud, this service makes cutting-edge biological computing accessible to a wider audience without the hefty upfront cost.
Six Years of Development and Launch Plans
Cortical Labs has dedicated six years to developing the CL1, ensuring it meets high standards of performance and reliability. The company recently detailed many of its features in an article by New Atlas and has already started taking orders. Customers can expect the CL1 to be shipped later this year, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey.
Inside the CL1: Neurons and Technology
The heart of the CL1 lies in its lab-grown neurons arranged on a planar electrode array. According to Chief Scientific Officer Brett Kagan, the system uses simple materials like metal and glass to create a stable neural network. This network is supported by a life-support unit and connected to specialized software, ensuring the neurons can interact seamlessly with digital systems.
Powerful Features and Robust Design
The CL1 is equipped with various features that mimic vital biological functions. CEO Hon Weng Chong explained that the system includes pumps, waste management, feeding reservoirs, and filtration units, similar to organs in a living body. Additionally, a gas mixer provides essential gases like carbon dioxide, oxygen, and nitrogen, maintaining a stable environment for the neurons to thrive.
Real-World Applications and Future Potential
Cortical Labs envisions the CL1 as a powerful tool for understanding intelligence and advancing scientific research. With multiple CL1 units, researchers can conduct controlled experiments to explore the genetic and protein factors that drive learning. This approach opens up possibilities for drug discovery and disease modeling, showcasing the CL1’s potential beyond traditional computing.
Conclusion: Pioneering the Future of Computing
Cortical Labs is pushing the boundaries of technology with the CL1, blending biological systems with digital innovation. Whether through purchasing the brain in a box or utilizing Wetware-as-a-Service, users are stepping into a new era of computing. As the CL1 becomes available, it promises to transform how we interact with machines and explore the depths of intelligence.
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gizmodo.com