HUMAN CYBORG: Man Implants Microchips to Control Electronics

This extreme body modifier, Russ Foxx, has surgically injected microchips to allow him to communicate with machines.

The 36-year-old Vancouver native has over 100 body modifications. The newest, feature NFC and RFID chips installed in his hand, similar to those found in smartphones.

“I identify as a cyborg and I see these implants as a means to interact with the world around me. Anyone who carries keys could equally benefit from having these implants,” Foxx said.

These chips can be programmed to carry out everyday functions, like acting as a key fob to unlocking a front door, starting your vehicle, and opening locked compartments with just a wave of the hand.

“They save me time every single day. No more carrying around, forgetting, or misplacing keys or having to remember access codes,” Foxx said.

Foxx started his fascination with body modification once he got his ears pierced at five-years-old. By 18, he had over 50 piercings in his face, which led to his childhood nickname, “Tackle Box.” Foxx’s passion for extreme aesthetic manipulation had become his full-time job. The piercer and body modification specialist, and self-proclaimed “transhumanist,” has performed tens of thousands of procedures. Many on himself.

“If there is anything I truly own, it’s my body. I view modifications as the art and my body is the canvas,” Foxx said.

From electrical key fobs fitted in his hand, to silicone horns implanted into his head, Foxx also has a forked snake tongue, scarifications, ultraviolet tattoos, and pointed ears.

Foxx said, “Since becoming an adult, I find myself gravitating towards more functional modifications that enhance my natural abilities.”

The chips are no larger than a grain of rice, but Foxx worries that the implants could allow him to be tracked by hackers.

Foxx said that being chipped is quick, painless, and fast to heal. He added, “they are small and easily removed, if desired.”

Foxx has replaced the key ignition on his bike so that he can use his hand to start his motorcycle, has installed a secret compartment in his tablet that can only be accessed by the chip in his hand, and has his business card information scannable by any Android phone.

“I define myself as a trans-humanist; I evolve with technology and time. I’m always updating, always upgrading.”