Elon Musk’s Neuralink is getting into people’s heads, quite literally. The neurotech powerhouse just dropped the bombshell: they’ve successfully implanted their first human brain implant. This milestone comes just months after thousands eagerly volunteered for the human trial, announced in September of last year.
Last year, Neuralink secured FDA approval to conduct human trials, and now the company achieved a groundbreaking milestone by conducting its inaugural human brain chip implant. Called Telepathy, Neuralink’s first product will be able to connect human brains to computers to help tackle complex neurological conditions.
Positive Signs in First Human Brain Chip Implant Patient
Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, shared on X (formerly Twitter) that “promising” brain activity had been detected after the procedure and the patient was “recovering well”.
In the context of brain-computer interfaces, detecting neuron spikes is pivotal for deciphering brain signals. When we use the term “promising,” it suggests that the initial data or observations are positive and indicate potential for future progress.
If successful, this advancement holds transformative potential, especially for those with paralysis. It enables them to utilize their cognitive abilities to interact with a variety of technological devices, from smartphones to computers.
Previous Achievements
A few rival firms have implanted similar devices. Notably, École Polytechnique Fédérale in Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland, has enabled a paralyzed individual to walk through thought alone. This was accomplished using electronic implants on the brain and spine, wirelessly transmitting commands to the legs and feet.
