Chip in your brain? UAE futurist expects 'science fiction to become reality' as soon as next year

In the next year, a computer chip may be implanted into the brain of a healthy person, a UAE futurist predicted.

“What once felt like science fiction will become reality,” Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation said, speaking at the opening of the Dubai Future Forum (DFF) on Tuesday. “It opens possibilities we've only dreamt of. Enhancing memory, improving focus, even interacting with technology through thought alone.”

He explained that Elon Musk's Neuralink has already implanted brain chips into two patients with spinal cord injuries. However, soon brain chips may be trialled on healthy people, Belhoul predicted. “This breakthrough will redefine connections,” he added.

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However, he added that it raises profound questions as well. “Indeed, brain computer implants have been a controversial topic for a while. What does it mean to blur the line between human and machine? Does this redefine what it means to be human?” he asked.

The largest gathering of futurists in the world, the DFF will see more than 2,500 representatives from over 100 countries discuss and debate about various futuristic topics including the concept of time, philanthropy, healthcare and longevity. Returning for its third edition, the forum will take place over two days at the Museum of Future.

First AI board member

In his speech, Belhoul listed seven changes he expected in the world over the course of the next year. One of it was that the world will see a Fortune 500 company appoint its first artificial intelligence (AI) board member. “We've seen AI accomplish incredible things, from diagnosing diseases, to driving cars, predicting financial trends, and even creating arts,” he said. “But we've also seen the emergence of AI in executive roles. Last year, the first AI humanoid CEO was appointed leader of a company to lead with data-driven precision.

"I expect a Fortune 500 company to have its first AI board member in the upcoming year. This will force us to rethink what it actually means to lead. Can AI possess vision and purpose? Or will it simply optimise for efficiency?”

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