Neuralink implant expands capabilities for quadriplegic users

Within minutes of connecting the implant to his computer, Alex achieved unprecedented cursor control, breaking the world record for brain-computer interface (BCI) cursor control on his first day.
a man in a suit

Last month, Alex, the second participant in Neuralink’s PRIME Study, successfully received his Neuralink implant at the Barrow Neurological Institute. The surgery was smooth, and Alex’s recovery was swift, allowing him to be discharged the next day. Since the procedure, Alex has been using the implant to enhance his ability to play video games and to learn computer-aided design (CAD) software, marking significant progress in regaining autonomy for people with quadriplegia.

The PRIME Study aims to prove the safety and practicality of the Neuralink implant in everyday life. Alex’s experience shows promising results, particularly in controlling a computer cursor with his mind just minutes after connecting the implant to his computer. He quickly surpassed the speed and accuracy of previous assistive technologies and even broke a world record for brain-computer interface (BCI) cursor control.

Alex’s passion for building things has been reignited with the help of the Neuralink implant. On his second day using it, he successfully designed a custom mount for his Neuralink charger using CAD software, which was later 3D printed. The implant has also improved his gaming experience by allowing him to control multiple inputs simultaneously, a significant upgrade from the limitations of his previous assistive device.

The previous patient..

The first patient, Noland Arbaugh, who was paralysed in a diving accident, discussed his experience with the implant on a podcast. Previously reliant on a stick to operate a tablet, Arbaugh can now control his computer screen simply by thinking. Although he faced initial issues with the implant’s wires retracting, Neuralink adjusted the algorithm to restore functionality, significantly improving his ability to control a cursor.

To prevent potential issues seen in previous participants, Neuralink implemented new surgical techniques to reduce the chances of thread retraction, a complication that had temporarily affected performance in an earlier case. These precautions have proven effective, as no retraction has been observed in Alex.

Looking ahead, Neuralink is working on expanding the functionality of the implant, including decoding multiple clicks and movement intents and developing algorithms for faster text entry. These advancements could not only restore digital autonomy for those with quadriplegia but also enhance communication for individuals with conditions like ALS.