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Midjourney shows off ultrasound scanner, but proof it works remains scarce

The Verge AI1d ago5 min read
Midjourney shows off ultrasound scanner, but proof it works remains scarce

Key takeaway

Midjourney has published a behind-the-scenes video of its ultrasound scanner, a device it plans to launch as a wellness product in spas. However, experts say the company has provided little evidence that it can overcome fundamental limitations of ultrasound technology or deliver the high-resolution, rapid imaging it claims—key questions remain unanswered despite the detailed video tour.

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3 Key Points

  • What happened

    Midjourney, the AI image-generation startup, released a behind-the-scenes video of its ultrasound scanner—described as ultrasound probes connected to off-the-shelf computers and Raspberry Pis in a modified hot tub. The nearly 20-minute tour, led by engineer Marcin Plaza, showed the hardware and team but largely sidestepped physics and imaging questions that experts raised when the project was first announced.

  • Why it matters

    Experts told The Verge that Midjourney has shown little evidence it can overcome the well-known limits of ultrasound or deliver the detailed images at the scale and speed it promises. The company is positioning the scanner as a wellness product focused on body composition rather than a diagnostic medical device, which allows it to sidestep FDA clearance and clinical trials—but the video still uses medical language, suggesting physicians could benefit from frequent scans over time. This approach may appeal to investors or early adopters, but the lack of independent validation leaves open questions about real-world performance.

  • What to watch

    Midjourney plans to deploy the scanner in spas once testing is complete. CEO David Holz said the company's lack of investors gives it freedom to pursue the project without outside pressure. The company has promised frequent blog updates on progress.

FAQ

What is Midjourney's ultrasound scanner?
It is a dunk-tank ultrasound scanner made from scores of ultrasound probes connected to off-the-shelf computers and Raspberry Pis. Midjourney plans to deploy it in spas as a wellness product focused on body composition analysis.
Why is Midjourney positioning it as a wellness product rather than a medical device?
A medical diagnostic device would require FDA clearance and clinical trials. By launching as a wellness product, Midjourney's head of medical Tom Calloway said the company could "speedrun" and open right away once testing is complete.
What do experts say about the scanner's ability to work?
Experts told The Verge that Midjourney has shown little evidence it can overcome the well-known limits of ultrasound or generate the kind of detailed images at the scale and speed it has suggested.

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