Neuralink Reveals Results from Its First Brain-Computer Interface Study

Neuralink has recently shared results from its latest experiment involving a brain implant that enabled a fully paralyzed patient, Noland Arbaugh, to control a computer cursor with his thoughts. This significant breakthrough is not only a testament to the advances in neural technology but also a beacon of hope for those with severe mobility impairments.

Noland Arbaugh, the first patient to receive Neuralink's brain implant in January 2024, has demonstrated remarkable progress in digital interaction. Within just a month of the implantation, Arbaugh began to move the cursor using his thoughts. Now, he can engage in online games like chess and Civilization VI, perform live streams, and operate various applications. Impressively, Arbaugh also competes in Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch using his mind, showcasing the implant's practical potential in recreational activities.

The implant's efficacy is measured in bits per second (BPS), and Arbaugh has reached a rate of 8 BPS, closely approaching the performance of healthy individuals using a conventional computer mouse, which is about 10 BPS. Neuralink aims to enhance the implant's control accuracy to match that of able-bodied users fully, including expanding its capabilities to allow text input and the control of robotic devices such as prosthetic arms and motorized wheelchairs.

Neuralink’s Human Patient Can Control a Computer Mouse by Thinking

Neuralink’s pioneering approach involves surgically implanting a chip into a region of the brain that controls the intention to move, enabling direct communication between the brain and external devices.

The Internet ProtocolKay Lee

Amidst these promising developments, Neuralink has also started recruiting for a second participant to join its clinical trials. This expansion aims to further validate and refine the implant's functionality, addressing some technical challenges.