Scientists are increasingly exploring the use of living human brain cells as computational hardware, an emerging approach known as biocomputing, as concerns grow over the limits of conventional artificial intelligence systems. These early-stage “biocomputers,” which can perform simple tasks such as playing Pong or basic speech recognition, have gained momentum due to increased venture capital investment, advances in growing brain tissue outside the body, and growing acceptance of brain–computer interface technologies, according to a report published by PsyPost.
Researchers say the technology remains far from producing consciousness or true intelligence, but ethical and governance concerns are mounting as development accelerates. Studies such as Cortical Labs’ 2022 experiment, which showed neurons learning to play Pong, sparked debate over terms like “embodied sentience,” while companies in the US, Switzerland, China and Australia race toward commercial applications, prompting experts to warn that ethics frameworks have not kept pace with rapid scientific and commercial progress.