World’s First “Synthetic Biological Intelligence” Powered by Living Human Cells!

Cortical Labs, an Australian biotech company, has launched the world’s first “biological computer,” the CL1, which combines human brain cells with silicon hardware to form dynamic, self-learning neural networks. Officially unveiled in Barcelona on March 2, 2025, this groundbreaking innovation promises to revolutionize AI technology by offering a more sustainable, energy-efficient, and flexible computing system compared to traditional silicon-based AI.

The CL1: What Makes It Unique?

The CL1 system, known as Synthetic Biological Intelligence (SBI), uses lab-grown human neural networks placed on a silicon chip. These networks are able to learn, adapt, and evolve, offering a much faster and more efficient alternative to conventional AI. Unlike existing AI chips used to train large language models like ChatGPT, SBI can process information more organically, mimicking the way human brains learn.

A Game-Changer for Research and Medicine

Cortical Labs’ CL1 is designed to accelerate scientific and medical research, with applications spanning from drug discovery to robotic intelligence. Dr. Hon Weng Chong, the company’s CEO, explained that this technology is part of a long-term mission to democratize innovation by making SBI available to researchers worldwide. The CL1 can be purchased or rented through a “Wetware-as-a-Service” (WaaS) model, enabling users to remotely access the neural networks for their own groundbreaking research.

The Future of Computing

The CL1 is set to be widely available by the second half of 2025, with each unit priced at around $35,000. Unlike traditional computers, it operates independently without an external computer and uses minimal energy. This biological computer could pave the way for more personalized and adaptive systems, highlighting a future where AI and biology seamlessly intertwine.