Neuralink’s First Human Successfully “Controls Mouse” with Thoughts: In a recent Spaces event on social media platform X, Elon Musk, the founder of Neuralink, shared groundbreaking news about the first human patient implanted with a Neuralink brain chip. Musk revealed that the patient has fully recovered and demonstrated the ability to control a computer mouse solely through thoughts.
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Neuralink’s First Human Controls Mouse, Milestone Achievement
The successful recovery marks a significant milestone for Neuralink, indicating positive neural effects. According to Musk, “Progress is good, and the patient seems to have made a full recovery, with neural effects that we are aware of. The patient is able to move a mouse around the screen by just thinking.”
Post-Implant Capabilities
With the brain chip in place, the patient can now interact with a computer interface seamlessly, moving a mouse with the power of their thoughts. Musk humorously added that Neuralink’s current goal is to maximize the number of mouse button clicks achieved through the patient’s mental commands.
Initial Announcement and Human Trials
In January, Elon Musk announced the successful implantation of a Neuralink chip in a human patient. The company had received approval for human trial recruitment in September, setting the stage for groundbreaking developments in brain-computer interface technology.
Patient Details and Study Focus
Elon Musk did not disclose specific details about the patient but reaffirmed that Neuralink is striving to enhance the lives of individuals with quadriplegia due to cervical spinal cord injury or ALS. The study involves using a robot to surgically implant a brain-computer interface in a region controlling movement intentions.
Ambitious Goals for Neuralink
Musk’s vision for Neuralink extends beyond aiding paralysis. The entrepreneur envisions leveraging brain-chip technology to address various conditions, including obesity, autism, depression, and schizophrenia. Neuralink, valued at around $5 billion, aims to revolutionize healthcare through innovative applications of its brain-computer interface.
Safety Concerns and Scrutiny
While Neuralink’s achievements are remarkable, the company has faced calls for scrutiny regarding safety protocols. The ambitious goals and potential applications of brain-chip technology have prompted a closer examination of ethical and safety considerations.
Exploring the Future
Neuralink, founded by Elon Musk in 2017, seeks to pioneer brain-computer interfaces that empower individuals with traumatic injuries to operate devices using their thoughts. The long-term vision includes assisting people with hearing and vision loss, with Musk expressing aspirations for the implant to enable the integration of humans with artificial intelligence.
Timeline for Commercialization
As Neuralink progresses through feasibility and pivotal studies, Elon Musk estimates that commercialization could occur within five to ten years. While the study typically involves 5-10 patients and spans up to a year, the journey toward realizing Neuralink’s transformative potential continues.
In conclusion, the successful recovery of the first Neuralink patient signifies a significant leap forward in brain-computer interface technology, paving the way for future advancements and transformative applications in healthcare and beyond.
