What do neurons on a chip learn to play?

'a machine with wires and tubes'

Neurons on a chip have demonstrated the capability to learn and play the classic arcade game Pong. This learning occurs through a real-time closed-loop system where electrical stimulation indicates the x and y positions of the ball relative to the paddle. The neural cultures exhibit self-organization and adapt their activity based on feedback, which improves their performance over time, suggesting a move towards goal-directed behavior indicative of intelligence[2][1].

In as little as minutes, these neuronal networks can track the ball and control the paddle, exhibiting a level of adaptability that outperforms traditional deep reinforcement learning algorithms in sample efficiency[2][1]. This advancement highlights the potential of biocomputers in learning and responding dynamically to stimuli in simulated environments.