Elon Musk’s Neuralink has released a video showing its first human patient controlling a computer cursor and playing chess solely through a brain implant. Noland Arbaugh, 29, paralyzed below the shoulders in a diving accident, likened using the device to controlling objects with “the Force” from Star Wars.
Elon Musk, who founded Neuralink in 2016, called the demonstration “telepathy.” Arbaugh says the implant has also let him play video games for lengthy sessions despite limited battery life. The FDA approved Neuralink for human trials last year.
While similar brain-computer interfaces have been demonstrated, Neuralink’s implant transmits data wirelessly, unlike earlier examples that required wires protruding from the skin. Experts note the patient’s ability to hold a conversation while using the interface is significant.
Neuralink faces criticism for its animal testing practices and lack of transparency in trials. Competitors are also developing brain implants for similar purposes.
Musk claims Neuralink aims to assist those with paralysis but has expressed long-term goals of enhancing healthy individuals’ capabilities. Arbaugh acknowledges the technology’s current limitations but emphasizes how it has transformed his life.