The concept of Internet of Bodies (IOB) is gaining momentum and is set to revolutionize the way technological devices interact with the human body. Academic and author Andrea M. Matwyshyn introduced the term in 2016, defining it as a network where human bodies rely on the internet and related technologies for their integrity and functionality. The global connected medical device market is projected to see significant growth, with a worth of $66 billion in 2024 and expected to reach over $132 billion by 2029.
Matwyshyn categorized IOB devices into three main categories based on their level of integration. The first category consists of external devices, such as smartwatches and rings, which are widely used to track metrics like steps and heart rate. Smart glasses, serving as cameras, headphones, or monitors, also fall into this category. The second generation includes internal devices that can be ingested or implanted within the body, like pacemakers with digital implants and smart prosthetics connected to nerves and muscles. Digital pills transmitting medical data after ingestion are also part of this category. Lastly, the third category comprises devices that seamlessly blend with the body while maintaining a real-time connection to an external machine and the internet.
One notable company pioneering in the IOB space is Elon Musk’s Neuralink. Their brain computer interface called “the Link” is a coin-sized chip implanted under the skull, enabling individuals to control external machines through brain signals. While proponents of IOB are enthusiastic about its potential benefits, particularly in healthcare, concerns regarding privacy and ethics have been raised by experts like Matwyshyn. The integration of human flesh with hardware, software, and algorithms raises questions about societal norms and values.
As IOB technology continues to evolve, it is crucial to address the ethical and privacy implications associated with these devices. The seamless integration of technology with the human body poses challenges that extend beyond mere functionality. Issues related to data security, consent, and control over personal information must be carefully examined to ensure the responsible development and implementation of IOB devices. Furthermore, the potential societal impact of IOB requires thorough consideration of the ethical boundaries and regulations that should govern the use of these advanced technologies.
The Internet of Bodies holds immense promise for improving healthcare and enhancing human capabilities through the fusion of technology with the human body. However, as we navigate the intricate landscape of IOB devices, it is essential to approach these advancements with a critical lens, acknowledging and addressing the complex ethical and privacy concerns that accompany this technological evolution. By conscientiously evaluating the societal implications and ethical ramifications of Internet of Bodies, we can strive towards a future where technological integration with the human body is not only innovative but also ethically sound and socially responsible.