Neuralink Implants Computer Chip in First Patient
The first patient to have a computer chip implanted into their brain by Elon Musk’s Neuralink has been shown using the device to control a PC. In a livestream posted to X, formerly Twitter, 29-year-old Noland Arbaugh demonstrated how he could move a computer cursor using just his mind to play chess online.
Background
Mr. Arbaugh had been paralyzed below the shoulders after a diving accident several years ago. He underwent surgery to have the Neuralink chip implanted in January. The Neuralink chip aims to give those with paralysis the ability to control their devices, including their smartphone, using just their thoughts.
Functionality and Testing
The Neuralink device can read brain neuron activity and beam back a wireless signal to a receiving unit, which then connects with a user’s device and enables them to control it. The device is currently being trialled to test the functionality of its interface and the surgical robot used to implant the chips, having received approval in the US to test the chip on humans.
Live Demonstration
During the livestream, Mr. Arbaugh mentioned that the surgery to implant the chip was “super easy”. He also demonstrated how he could use the chip to play video game Civilisation VI. He expressed gratitude to Neuralink for giving him “the ability to do that again” and shared that he had played “for eight hours straight”. However, he noted that the device is not perfect and he had encountered “some issues”.
Future Plans
When the successful surgery was announced in January, Mr. Musk shared the early plans for Neuralink. He mentioned that initial users will be those who have lost the use of their limbs, envisioning a future where individuals like Stephen Hawking could communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer.
