On Thursday, Elon Musk, founder of Tesla and SpaceX, shared exciting news about Neuralink’s brain chip. He revealed that the second recipient of the Neuralink chip is making significant progress. If things continue to go well, Neuralink aims to have hundreds of people with the chip within a few years, and potentially tens of thousands within five years. Musk even suggested that millions could have Neuralinks within ten years.
Neuralink, the brain-computer interface company, confirmed that its second participant is showing promising early results. The chip has the potential to restore full body control for people suffering from paralysis.
Neuralink reported that Alex, the second participant in their ‘PRIME Study,’ received his implant last month. The surgery took place at the Barrow Neurological Institute and went smoothly. Alex was discharged the following day and has been recovering well.
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Since receiving the chip, Alex has made strides in various areas. He has improved his ability to play video games and has started learning computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 3D objects. This advancement represents a major step forward in providing a high-performance interface for individuals with quadriplegia. The goal is to enhance their ability to control digital devices and restore their autonomy.
Alex is now using CAD software to turn his design ideas into reality during his free time. Neuralink expressed hope that the chip will enable many people to pursue their interests and reconnect with their passions.
In addition to this update, Neuralink also shared progress about the first recipient, Noland Armagh. Armagh has achieved “telepathic control of a computer or phone just by thinking.”
Looking ahead, Neuralink is working on decoding multiple clicks and simultaneous movement intents. This will aim to provide full mouse and video game controller functionality. The company also plans to develop features that will allow users to interact with the physical world. For example, they hope to enable users to feed themselves and move more independently by controlling a robotic arm or their wheelchair.
Overall, Neuralink is making significant strides in advancing brain-computer interface technology and improving the quality of life for people with paralysis.