The Download: First 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.
## This Man with ALS Is the First 'Power User' of a Brain Implant That Lets Him Speak
Casey Harrell has had a set of electrodes embedded in his brain for almost three years. Diagnosed with ALS and paralyzed, Harrell first used his brain-computer interface (BCI) to 'speak' in 2023. Since then, he has accumulated thousands of hours of use.
Now, Harrell can operate the device largely independently. His team has added new features, and he also uses the implant to browse 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 calls Harrell 'the first power user of a speech BCI.' They plan to add further enhancements in 2026 and beyond, aiming to expand the technology's applications.
[Read the full story on Casey Harrell's groundbreaking BCI journey.](https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/06/15/1138953/man-als-first-power-user-brain-implant-speak-bci/?utm_source=the_download&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=the_download.unpaid.engagement&utm_term=*|SUBCLASS|*&utm_content=*|DATE:m-d-Y|*)
—*Jessica Hamzelou*
## Why Do South Koreans Love AI So Much?
While a public backlash against artificial intelligence has emerged in many parts of the world, South Korea stands out as a notable exception. Surveys in 2026 show that over 80% of South Koreans view AI as a positive force for society, compared to just 35% in the United States and 30% in European nations.
Experts attribute this enthusiasm to a combination of factors: heavy government investment in AI infrastructure, a tech-savvy population accustomed to rapid digital adoption, and cultural narratives that frame AI as a tool for national competitiveness. South Korea's AI obsession is also reflected in its corporate landscape, with companies like Samsung and Naver investing billions into AI research and deployment.
However, critics warn that this uncritical embrace could lead to privacy concerns and workforce displacement. As the country pushes forward with AI integration in education, healthcare, and public services, the global tech community watches closely to see if South Korea's experiment can serve as a model—or a cautionary tale.
## Plus: US Restricts Anthropic AI Over Foreign Intelligence Risks
In a significant development, the United States government has imposed restrictions on the AI company Anthropic, citing concerns about foreign intelligence risks. This move underscores the growing tension between national security and the rapid advancement of AI technologies in 2026. The specific details of the restrictions remain classified, but industry analysts suggest they may involve data sharing limitations and export controls.
Stay tuned for more updates on these stories and the latest technology news.
*—Thomas Macaulay*