Researchers have placed networks of neurons into dishes, placed them into what amounts to a simple version of The Matrix, and found they can learn Pong faster than an AI. As reported by New Scientist, researchers at Cortical Labs explained that they've grown groups of human neurons into organoid mini-brains (a process also being used to attach Neanderthal brain cells to crab robots) and placed on micro-electrode interfaces. Those interfaces pulse with electricity, used to effectively convince the mini-brains that they are the paddles inside a game of single-player Pong. Have you played Pong [1972]? "We often refer to them as living in the Matrix," explained chief scientific officer Brett Kagan. Within that virtual game world, the neurons can begin to move those paddles, using them to stop Pong's relentless bouncing ball from passing by them.