In early 2024, Neuralink successfully implanted its first brain chip in a patient named Noland Arbaugh. Arbaugh, who became quadriplegic in 2016, was the first human to receive this implant with the goal of evaluating its safety and functionality.
However, Neuralink encountered some mechanical problems with the device that caused connectivity failures and decreased the number of effective electrodes due to threads retracting from the brain. Despite this setback, Neuralink quickly came up with a solution by modifying the algorithm that records electrical signals, resulting in improved performance that surpassed Arbaugh’s initial experience.
While experts view this as a temporary fix, Neuralink is still searching for a permanent measure that does not require further surgeries. Prior to implanting the device in Arbaugh, Neuralink had tested it on animals whose brains are smaller and experience less electrode movement than humans.
Before the implantation of the device, Arbaugh relied on a tablet stylus held in his mouth for electronic device interactions, which limited his communication and multitasking abilities. However, despite these challenges, Neuralink remains committed to advancing its technology and is working on improving text input, cursor control, and expanding its capabilities to include physical devices like robotic arms and wheelchairs.
Despite ongoing challenges in their journey towards impactful technology, Neuralink’s progress demonstrates their potential to transform the lives of users. The company’s dedication to innovation suggests a promising future for brain chip technology.
