Elon Musk’s company Neuralink is broadening its horizons, actively seeking participants for clinical trials of its groundbreaking brain-computer interface technology. With the ambition to allow individuals to control devices through thought alone, Neuralink’s current focus is on individuals with quadriplegia — those who have lost the ability to move their arms and legs.
In an announcement made on April 2 via the social media platform X, also owned by Musk, Neuralink invited quadriplegics to join a clinical trial that assesses its device’s functionality. Previously, as of January, three patients have already undergone implantation of the device, participating in the Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface (PRIME) study. This clinical trial aims to explore the device’s capability to track neural activity to control computers and smartphones.
Neuralink is part of a larger ecosystem of companies and academic institutions delving into the realm of brain-computer interfaces. These devices can range from minimally invasive brain implants to non-invasive wearable tech. The PRIME clinical study will span approximately six years and focuses specifically on individuals with spinal cord injuries or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), aiming to empower them to use their thoughts to interact with computers.
Source: Neuralink
Musk, who is also known for leading Tesla and having had significant roles in other ventures, envisions a future where Neuralink advances beyond mere device control. His ambition includes enhancing human capabilities, effectively aiming to ‘give people superpowers.’ This innovative perspective is what makes Neuralink’s work so exciting and controversial.
Encouraging Reports from Trial Participants
One of the highlight stories from the trials is from Noland Arbaugh, Neuralink’s first patient, who reported in a recent X post that he has encountered no adverse side effects since receiving his brain implant. As a quadriplegic, Arbaugh demonstrated the functionality of his brain chip by using it to control a computer cursor to play chess and navigate the web.
Arbaugh noted that he utilizes the chip for various tasks, estimating over ten hours of use per day. Furthermore, he has engaged with Neuralink’s team regarding advancements, suggesting that they are exploring how to control a wheelchair. However, he expressed caution, wishing for it to be ‘next to perfect’ to ensure safety.
Since his procedure, Arbaugh has found new employment opportunities as a keynote speaker, attributing this success to the enhancements provided by the Neuralink implant. He reflected on the substantial hope and purpose the technology has offered him, predicting that it may soon be available for many more individuals in the future.
The efforts of Neuralink rally the intrigue of many within the tech community, setting the stage for profound implications in the realm of medical technology and the enhancements of human cognition. As this clinical trial progresses, the possibilities may reshape our understanding of interaction between humans and machines.
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