Latent Space AI Latent Space: Brains Connect
Jan 15, 2026
Explore the groundbreaking potential of brain-computer interfaces as discussed by Merge Labs, backed by OpenAI's hefty investment. Delve into the ambitious vision of connecting minds to AI for mental health and creative innovations. Addressing the unsettling concerns around AI within our thoughts, the contrast between Merge Labs' noninvasive methods and Neuralink's surgical approach raises intriguing questions. Discussions also highlight the implications of merging human and machine capabilities for the future.
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From Fearful Debut To Familiar Use Cases
- Jaeden Schafer recalls Neuralink demos and social media videos that made brain interfaces more familiar to the public.
- He notes early fear gave way to acceptance when interfaces helped people with paralysis communicate and control devices.
Noninvasive Path To Brain–AI Connection
- Merge Labs aims to connect human brains directly to AI using noninvasive methods like ultrasound instead of implants.
- This approach reframes brain interfaces as scalable communication with billions of neurons, not just medical implants.
Vision Extends Beyond Medical Therapy
- Merge Labs promises restoring abilities, healthier mental states, deeper connection, and new creative modes via scaled neural access.
- That vision extends far beyond narrow medical therapy toward broad human augmentation with AI.