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In our final episode, Misha Glenny explores the power of microchips to unlock the potential of future innovation in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and neurotechnology.

The semiconductor has transformed the world as we know it, but is it on the cusp of changing what it means to be human?

This year chips took a decisive step into a new frontier, the human body, as Elon Musk’s company Neuralink successfully implanted their first brain chip. Misha speaks to Professor Henri Lorach, who helps paralysed patients walk again using brain implants, about this pioneering technology and how it could revolutionise our lives.

At the centre of the Artificial Intelligence revolution is advanced microchip technology, those chips provide the power that makes AI possible. Misha hears from AI start-up Synthesia about the opportunities and the threats for nations and citizens of creating AI generated videos and Dame Wendy Hall, a member of the United Nations advisory body on AI, reflects on the need for regulation and strong governance of AI.

Beyond the realms of most human comprehension lies quantum computing, the next evolutionary phase in the microchip journey. Misha speaks to startup Quantum Motion and tech giant IBM about how their quantum chips which stay colder than absolute zero/ outer space can complete tasks that take everyday computers hundreds of years in mere minutes. Yet in the wrong hands these chips could have a dark side – Misha hears from Nigel Inkster, the former director of operations for the British Secret Intelligence Service about how quantum computing could break down the world’s cryptography and cyber security and reveal top secret information previously hidden.

Presented by Misha Glenny, Rector of the Institute for Human Sciences in Vienna.

Produced by Olivia Sopel and Mugabi Turya