Neuralink breakthrough: Paralyzed patient controls computer with thoughts

Company plans to implant its device into 10 individuals by year's end

Noland Arbaugh, the first person to receive Elon Musk's Neuralink brain chip, expressed profound admiration for the technology, calling it indescribably amazing.

In an exclusive interview with NewsNation's Chris Cuomo, Arbaugh demonstrated how the implanted chip allows him to control a computer mouse pointer simply by imagining its movements, despite being paralyzed from the shoulders down.

Despite initial issues with his implant, Arbaugh has successfully used the chip to communicate with loved ones, read books, and play games. He described the process as effortless during his appearance on "CUOMO."

 

 

 

 

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Following a setback with Arbaugh's implant, Neuralink has obtained Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval to proceed with a second patient, aiming to address previous technical challenges. The company plans to resolve the issue by implanting ultra-thin wires deeper into the brain, a strategy reported by the Wall Street Journal.

Neuralink intends to implant its device into a second patient in June, with plans to extend this to a total of 10 individuals by year's end. Over 1,000 quadriplegics have registered for potential participation in the program.

Dr Tom Pitts, a neurology expert, advised that ideal candidates for the Neuralink brain chip are those who are cognitively sound, emphasising the importance of mental clarity for effective use of the technology.

He cautioned against considering candidates with conditions like Alzheimer's or brain cancer, which could interfere with the chip's performance or complicate research outcomes.

Pitts underscored the need for candidates whose cognitive abilities are intact to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the tasks performed with the Neuralink device.