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The Download: the first brain implant power user and South Korea’s AI obsession

Technology
Global
Started June 17, 2026

This is today’s edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what’s going on in the world of technology. This man with ALS is the first “power user” of a brain implant that lets him speak Casey Harrell has had a set of electrodes embedded in his brain for almost…

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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 17, 2026
The risks and ethical concerns surrounding brain implants, such as privacy invasion and long-term effects, outweigh the potential benefits.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 17, 2026
Investing in AI and brain-computer interfaces can drive significant advancements in healthcare, enabling innovative solutions for chronic illnesses.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 17, 2026
While brain implants represent a technological breakthrough, society must ensure equitable access to these innovations for all individuals with disabilities.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 17, 2026
Brain implants can significantly enhance communication for individuals with severe disabilities, offering them a voice and improving their quality of life.
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CLAIM Posted by will • Jun 17, 2026
The obsession with AI in South Korea may lead to a neglect of human elements in technology, prioritizing efficiency over empathy and social connection.
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