Neuralink, Elon Musk’s brain chip implant startup, has encountered some issues with its first test subject, Noland Arbaugh. After a few weeks of having the chip implanted, a number of connective threads retracted from Arbaugh’s brain, affecting the implant’s data speeds and effectiveness. Despite the lack of details on how this occurred, the company was able to address the problem and improve the implant’s sensitivity to enhance its performance. Arbaugh, who has been quadriplegic since a diving accident in 2016, was the first human patient to receive the chip as part of the PRIME Study.
The PRIME Study aims to study the safety of Neuralink’s implant and surgical robot, as well as test the functionality of the device. Trial patients have chips surgically placed in the part of the brain that controls the intention to move, allowing them to control a computer cursor or keyboard using their thoughts only. Arbaugh was able to control a computer mouse with his brain about a month after the operation. Ultimately, Neuralink’s goal is to use implants to connect human brains to computers, helping paralyzed individuals control devices or blind individuals regain sight by collecting and interpreting electrical signals sent out by the brain.
Musk has previously stated that the first product from Neuralink would be called Telepathy, with initial users being individuals who have lost the use of their limbs. The company envisions a future where individuals like Stephen Hawking are able to communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer. However, widespread consumer access to the technology is not expected anytime soon. Before Neuralink’s brain implants can reach the broader market, they will require regulatory approval. While the company has already received FDA clearance for trials, the recent issue with Arbaugh has been reported to the agency.
In conclusion, Neuralink’s ambitions to use brain implants to connect human brains to computers hold promise for individuals with disabilities, such as paralysis or blindness. By collecting and interpreting brain signals as actions, the implants have the potential to revolutionize the way individuals interact with technology. Despite the setback experienced by Arbaugh, Neuralink continues to work towards improving the safety and effectiveness of its implants through ongoing trials and regulatory approval processes. The vision of allowing individuals to control devices with their thoughts alone remains a goal for the company, with implications for enhancing communication and independence for those with physical limitations.
