Midjourney’s medical scanner video highlights lack of clinical evidence

Midjourney, known for its image-generation technology, published a behind-the-scenes video detailing its experimental ultrasound scanner, which the company describes as a collection of modified ultrasound probes arranged around a modified hot tub with an elevator. The hardware demonstration was led by tech YouTuber and Midjourney engineer Marcin Plaza, who characterized the device as 'scores of ultrasound probes “hacked apart and slapped on a glorified hot tub with an elevator in it,” connected to off-the-shelf computers and Raspberry Pis.' The video provides a detailed look at the scanner’s construction and the team involved, but it does not address the scientific or clinical questions raised by external experts when Midjourney first announced the project.

Experts previously told The Verge that Midjourney had not demonstrated how the scanner could overcome known limitations of ultrasound technology or produce the detailed, rapid imaging the company has suggested. The company now states the device will launch as a wellness product focused on body composition rather than a diagnostic medical device, which would require FDA clearance and clinical validation. Midjourney’s head of medical, Tom Calloway, framed this approach as a way to 'speedrun' to market, implying the company could open sooner by avoiding regulatory hurdles tied to medical claims.

Despite the shift toward wellness, the video continues to use medical language, including references to what physicians could do with frequent scans over time. Midjourney CEO David Holz emphasized the company’s independence from investors as a reason it could pursue the scanner project without external oversight, stating, 'No one can tell me not to do it.' The company has not provided clinical evidence or peer-reviewed validation of the scanner’s capabilities in the video or accompanying materials.