Humans and machines are closer to merging after researchers in the USA built a "biocomputer". Bioengineers combined laboratory-grown human brain tissue with microelectrodes. They dubbed their creation Brainoware. It is in its embryonic stage, but it can already perform complex tasks like voice recognition. Dr Feng Guo hopes the software will help to advance AI technology. It could also mean AI hardware requires less energy than silicon chips. Dr Guo said: "This is just proof-of-concept to show that we can do the job. We still have a long way to go."

The researchers said Brainoware utilizes "organoids". These are artificially grown bundles of tissue that resemble an organ. Dr Guo's organoids have developed neurons, akin to those found in the human brain. The researchers' next step is to look at how Brainoware can undertake higher-level tasks. The technology could be used to create improved models of the brain, and help neuroscience research. It could also lead to cures for neurological diseases. A major challenge is to find solutions to keep the living tissue alive for longer.