Elon Musk’s brain implant startup Neuralink is currently accepting applications for a second human trial participant to test its device. This comes after the company implanted a brain chip into its first human trial participant, Noland Arbaugh, who has been a quadriplegic since 2016. Arbaugh’s implant allows him to control a computer cursor with his brain, a development that has significantly impacted his life and given him hope for the future.
Neuralink is now looking for more individuals with quadriplegia to participate in their clinical trial and test out their brain chip technology. The ultimate goal of Neuralink is to connect human brains to computers to help paralyzed individuals control devices or aid blind people in regaining sight. The company’s implant works by collecting electrical signals sent out by the brain and interpreting them as actions, offering new possibilities for those with limited mobility.
The current trial participants will be part of Neuralink’s PRIME Study, which aims to study the safety and functionality of their implant and surgical robot. Trial patients will have chips surgically placed in the part of the brain that controls movement intentions, with the goal of allowing individuals to control a computer cursor or keyboard using their thoughts alone. Despite some setbacks, such as Arbaugh’s device experiencing unexpected issues, Neuralink is working to address these challenges and improve the performance of their technology.
After the operation, Arbaugh was able to control a computer mouse with his brain, highlighting the potential benefits of Neuralink’s brain chip technology. Despite facing difficulties when his device experienced issues, Arbaugh and Neuralink continue to work towards finding solutions and improving performance. The company sees these challenges as part of the learning process and aims to address any issues that arise in their clinical trials before bringing the technology to market.
Neuralink’s brain implant technology is not yet available for widespread consumer use and will require broader regulatory approval before becoming accessible to the public. The company is focused on conducting clinical trials to test the safety and functionality of their devices, with the goal of eventually bringing this innovative technology to individuals with limited mobility and disabilities. Neuralink’s vision is to revolutionize the way individuals interact with technology by connecting their brains to computers, offering new possibilities for those with paralysis or other mobility limitations.
