The Download: Brain Implant Power User and South Korea's AI Obsession

This is today's edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what's going on in the world of technology. Casey Harrell has had a set of electrodes embedded in his brain for almost three years. Harrell, who has ALS and is paralyzed, first used his brain-computer interface (BCI) to 'speak' in 2023.

Since then, he's clocked thousands of hours of use. Harrell can now use the device largely independently. His team has added new features to it, and he also uses it to surf the web and perform his job.

'Living with a disease like ALS, you are supposed to have diminished dreams. I do not,' Harrell told MIT Technology Review. The team behind the device call Harrell 'the first power user of a speech BCI.' They now plan to add further enhancements to the device.

While a public backlash against AI brews across the US, South Koreans are optimistic. Only 16% say they are more concerned than excited about AI—the lowest of the 25 countries surveyed by the Pew Research Center—while 50% of Americans were more worried than excited. South Koreans share a deep conviction that embracing technology is integral to modernizing the country and cementing its place in the global order.

Their fascination with AI is just the latest incarnation of that ethos—and it's making them anxious to stay ahead. The US says it restricted Anthropic AI over foreign intelligence risks Commerce chief Lutnick said he acted over national security fears. Following the ban, Anthropic disabled access to its new models.

Both sides are increasingly desperate for a resolution. DeepSeek just became China's most valuable startup It raised $7 billion, the largest-ever first-round funding for an AI startup. The deal values DeepSeek at over $50 billion.

Its unusual structure preserves founder control. DeepSeek's new flagship model has caused a stir. Alibaba has unveiled AI models for robots amid a shift from chatbots It's joined a global race to move AI into the physical world.

AI is learning to understand its surroundings. Fox is buying streaming giant Roku for $22 billion The deal creates the third-largest player in US TV by viewing share. Fox is making a big bet on free streaming.

EA has launched a new way to advertise 'directly into gameplay' EA Advertising allows brands to become part of the game itself. Xbox's new chief strategy officer is also eyeing in-game ads. GenAI could reinvent what it means to play.