Cortical Labs Unveils CL1, a Biocomputer Powered by Human Brain Cells
Australian company Cortical Labs has developed a revolutionary computer powered by lab-grown human brain cells, marking a significant step in biological computing. As reported by Gizmodo, this device, known as CL1, is being marketed as the world’s first “code deployable biological computer” and is now available for pre-order at approximately $35,000.
For those unwilling to purchase the hardware outright, Cortical Labs is offering a cloud-based service called “Wetware-as-a-Service” (WaaS), allowing users to rent access to biocomputer processing power remotely.
At the core of CL1 is a network of lab-grown neurons cultivated on a glass-and-metal electrode array. These neurons interface with 59 electrodes, forming a stable neural system capable of processing information in real time. The biocomputer is housed within a life support unit, which replicates essential organ functions such as heart pumping, kidney-like waste filtration, and precise oxygen-carbon dioxide-nitrogen gas mixing—ensuring the neurons remain viable for up to six months.
Information is fed into CL1 through Cortical Labs’ proprietary Biological Intelligence Operating System (biOS). This system provides a simulated environment where neurons receive sensory input and generate responses, forming a closed-loop system capable of interacting dynamically with software. Impressively, CL1 is compatible with USB devices, making integration with traditional computing tools seamless.
An early prototype of this technology was demonstrated when Cortical Labs trained a neural network to play Pong, showcasing the potential of biocomputers in learning and adaptation. The company believes that biological computing could eventually match or exceed digital AI systems, particularly in understanding intelligence and cognitive functions at a fundamental level.
According to Brett Kagan, Chief Scientific Officer of Cortical Labs, a network of 120 CL1 units could enable researchers to study the impact of genes and proteins on learning. Additionally, biocomputers hold promise for drug discovery and disease modeling, offering a platform to simulate neurological processes at the molecular level.
With CL1, Cortical Labs is pioneering an entirely new category of biological computing, opening the door to innovative AI research, medical advancements, and a deeper understanding of human intelligence.
