Cortical Labs has launched the CL1, a groundbreaking biological computer that integrates living human neurons with silicon hardware. This innovative system, officially launched in Barcelona on March 2, 2025, is designed to revolutionize neurological and pharmaceutical research by offering a more dynamic and energy-efficient computing intelligence.
The CL1 system cultivates human neurons on a chip, enabling them to communicate through electrical connections. This setup allows for real-time experimentation and learning, building upon previous projects like DishBrain, where neurons were trained to play Pong. The CL1 provides more stable performance and enhanced living conditions for the neurons, consuming minimal energy.
Priced at approximately $35,000, the CL1 is available for purchase by specialized labs, with broader access facilitated through a cloud-based platform called Cortical Cloud, expected to launch in July 2025. Cortical Labs envisions the CL1 being used in brain-related therapies, drug discovery, and understanding mechanisms behind neurodegenerative diseases, marking a significant step forward in biological computing.