Neuralink implants second patient with brain chip, says Elon Musk

Neuralink is a neurotechnology company founded by Elon Musk in 2016, focused on developing advanced brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) that enable direct communication between the human brain and computers. The company's primary product, known as "the Link," is a surgically implanted neural-chip designed to decode and stimulate brain activity, potentially allowing individuals with paralysis to regain movement and enabling enhanced cognitive functions.

As of January 2024, Neuralink successfully implanted its device in a human patient, who was able to control a computer mouse using thought alone, marking a significant milestone in the company's mission to restore autonomy to those with neurological impairments and explore the possibilities of human enhancement through technology.

Today, Elon Musk announced that his startup, Neuralink, has successfully implanted a brain chip in a second patient and plans to conduct eight more trials later this year despite the fact that the company is still pending regulatory approval. The first patient has used it to play video games, browse the internet, post on social media, and control a laptop cursor.

In May, Neuralink received regulatory approval for a second test and a modified procedure. The changes were made after the implant's threads, which record neural activity, retracted from the first patient's brain. The new procedure plans to place the threads eight millimeters into the motor cortex, compared to the three to five millimeters used in the first patient.

In a recent podcast, Elon Musk shared that Neuralink's second brain chip implant has been successful, with 400 of its 1,024 electrodes functioning in a patient with a spinal cord injury. Musk, while withholding the exact timing of the surgery, expressed optimism about the results. He also mentioned plans for eight more implants this year as part of Neuralink's clinical trials. The first patient, Noland Arbaugh, who was paralyzed in a diving accident, also appeared on the podcast, along with three Neuralink executives who discussed the implant and its robotic surgery process.

Before receiving his Neuralink implant in January, Noland Arbaugh used a stick in his mouth to operate a tablet. Now, with the implant, he can control the computer screen through thought alone, gaining some independence and reducing his reliance on caregivers. Although the implant's tiny wires initially retracted, reducing its effectiveness, Neuralink restored its functionality by modifying the algorithm. 

Elon Musk stated that Neuralink plans to conduct eight more trials by the end of the year, pending regulatory approval. Despite some post-surgery issues, Noland Arbaugh has improved his previous world record for cursor control using his thoughts, with only 10-15% of the implant's electrodes functioning. "Despite only 10-15% of the electrodes working, Arbaugh has set a new record for controlling a cursor with his thoughts."

Additionally, Elon Musk mentioned discussing government efficiency and reducing business regulation with Republican candidate Donald Trump, whom he has endorsed.

Elon Musk launched Neuralink in 2017 with the goal of developing brain implants to restore autonomy to those with unmet medical needs. The device, called the "Link," is surgically attached to the brain to read neural signals and stimulate specific brain areas.

Despite its advancements, Neuralink has faced controversy, including a fine for hazardous material violations and accusations of animal cruelty by an animal rights group. Additionally, in June, a former employee sued the company, alleging a discriminatory work environment and inadequate protective measures while working with infected monkeys.