How is the world’s first person to receive Elon Musk’s brain chip living now?

The first person implanted with Neuralink’s brain chip was able to control a computer with his thoughts, opening a new chapter in human-machine interaction.

January 30, 2024 marks a milestone in the history of medicine and technology when Neuralink, a company founded by Elon Musk , performs the first human brain chip implant. The main character is Noland Arbaugh, a 30-year-old man from Arizona, USA. He is a complete quadriplegic after a diving accident in 2016 and has not been able to perform personal activities since then.

The event not only attracted the attention of the scientific community but also created a wave of debate around the world about the potential of brain-computer interfaces. For Arbaugh, this surgery was a miracle that helped him regain some of his ability to interact with the world.

Noland can control the mouse cursor on a computer screen entirely with his thoughts without any physical aids. Photo: Internet

Controlling computers with thoughts – something that was once only in science fiction

After having the chip implanted in his skull, Noland Arbaugh quickly mastered the device. He was able to control the mouse cursor on a computer screen entirely with his thoughts, without any physical aids. This achievement comes from the Neuralink chip recording electrical signals from the brain, then transmitting them via Bluetooth to a peripheral device.

With the new technology, Arbaugh can play games like chess and Civilization – games that require quick thinking and manipulation – for long periods of time. He once played for 8 hours straight without any problems. Remarkably, during the time he used the chip, Arbaugh did not experience any serious physical or mental side effects, a testament to the safety of the new technology.

After a period of use, about 85% of the electrodes in the chip are disconnected due to wire slippage. Photo: Internet

Technical issues and how Neuralink is dealing with them

However, not everything is perfect. According to Neuralink, after a period of use, about 85% of the electrodes in the chip became disconnected due to wire slippage. This was a risk that was anticipated in preclinical trials. Faced with this situation, the engineering team quickly updated the software and adjusted the algorithm to make the most of the remaining electrodes.

The software upgrades not only help Arbaugh continue to use the device effectively, but also provide valuable lessons for future implants. Neuralink also says it is working to improve the durability and stability of the leads, as well as the connectivity of future electrodes.

The Future of Neurotechnology: No Longer Science Fiction

Currently, Arbaugh still uses the chip to perform basic computer operations such as typing, moving the mouse, and playing games. In the near future, Neuralink’s next goal is to help him control an electric wheelchair with his thoughts, expanding his independence in everyday life.

In addition, Elon Musk also hopes that this technology will help overcome neurological disorders, restore motor skills, and even connect the brain to artificial intelligence to enhance thinking ability. Although there are many legal, ethical, and technical barriers, Arbaugh’s case shows that a future where people can interact with machines with their own thoughts is gradually becoming a reality.

Neuralink – a new turning point in world medicine and technology

Neuralink is currently recruiting volunteers for further chip implants. Despite controversy and skepticism, their technology has initially proven its feasibility and practical applications. With what has been achieved, Neuralink is on a journey to redraw the line between technology and biology – a journey that could change the way humans live, work and interact in the 21st century.