AI bottleneck debates and rising BCI trials

A startup called Subquadratic says it has slashed the number of computations transformers need to generate answers, producing a faster, cheaper large language model that uses far less energy than other models. Many experts remained skeptical, but Subquadratic has started to share the receipts, suggesting the approach might be worth paying attention to; researchers remain divided over its validity.

Brain-computer interface trials are also accelerating. Casey Harrell, described as “the first power user” of a brain implant, says the device has helped him keep an income, reconnect with friends and family, and read to his daughter, calling it “nothing short of revolutionary.” Volunteer numbers have surged in recent years, China has approved a BCI for medical use, and technical advances are letting engineers add more features.

China

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