READ: Cortical Labs to Sell World’s First Computer Powered by Human Brain Cells
A revolutionary leap in computing has just been unveiled, and it’s not powered by silicon—it’s powered by living human brain cells. Melbourne-based startup Cortical Labs has introduced the CL1, the world’s first commercial biological computer, at this year’s Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Described as a “body in a box,” this cutting-edge system could transform AI, robotics, and the way machines learn.
Unlike traditional computers, which rely solely on microchips, the CL1 integrates lab-grown neurons that grow across a silicon chip. These living neurons communicate by sending and receiving electrical impulses, just like the human brain. The system operates through Cortical Labs’s Biological Intelligence Operating System (biOS), allowing users to deploy code and perform complex computing tasks using biological intelligence instead of purely digital algorithms.
Of course, keeping brain cells alive outside of a human body is no small feat. The CL1 includes an internal life support system—complete with pumps, gas, and temperature controls—to keep the neurons functioning for up to six months.
One of the biggest advantages of biological computing is its ability to learn and adapt far more efficiently than conventional AI systems. Previous experiments with an earlier version of this technology—featuring 800,000 human and mouse neurons—showed that the neurons were able to teach themselves how to play Pong. A study published in the journal Cell even suggested that the neurons exhibited sentience when placed in a simulated game world.
This level of adaptability is paired with another major benefit: energy efficiency. While AI models today require massive amounts of power and data for training, biological neurons operate using minimal energy while still mastering complex tasks. In short, nature’s been optimizing intelligence for four billion years, and Cortical Labs wants to put that power to work.
Of course, blending biology with computing raises serious ethical concerns—especially around issues of consciousness and sentience. Cortical Labs claims to have put “guardrails” in place to prevent ethical dilemmas, though specific details remain scarce.
Despite these uncertainties, the company is moving full steam ahead. The first CL1 units are set to ship in June, with a price tag of $35,000 (£27,000) per unit. Dr. Hon Weng Chong, Cortical’s founder and CEO, emphasized that the real breakthroughs will come not just from the CL1 itself, but from what researchers and innovators build on top of it.
“Today is the culmination of a vision that has powered Cortical Labs for almost six years,” said Dr. Chong. “While today’s announcement is incredibly exciting, it’s the foundation for the next stage of innovation.”
As biological computing takes its first steps into the commercial world, the implications are staggering. Could this be the future of AI? A step toward machine consciousness? Or just the beginning of an entirely new era of technology? One thing’s for sure—science fiction just got a little closer to reality.
