Elon Musk Reveals Neuralink's First Human Patient Can Control Computer Mouse With Thoughts

By Thea Felicity

Feb 20, 2024 10:14 AM EST

Elon Musk announces major breakthrough in Neuralink's brain-chip technology. As reported by Reuters, Musk reveals Neuralink's first human patient who received a brain-chip implant has fully recovered and can now control a computer mouse using only their thoughts. 

Anti-Semitism Symposium Held Ahead Of International Holocaust Remembrance Day
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KRAKOW, POLAND - JANUARY 22: SpaceX, X (formerly known as Twitter), and Tesla CEO Elon Musk speaks during live interview with Ben Shapiro at the symposium on fighting antisemitism on January 22, 2024 in Krakow, Poland. The symposium on anti-semitism, organized by the European Jewish Association, was held ahead of international Holocaust remembrance day on January 27.

During the event, Musk expressed optimism about the patient's recovery. He specifically highlighted the absence of any negative effects. 

At the moment, the X CEO disclosed that Neuralink is focused on "fully maximizing" the patient's ability to perform mouse button clicks using their mind.

Elon Musk's Neuralink successfully implanted the brain-computer interface chip in its first human patient last month. This milestone followed regulatory approval for human trial recruitment in September.

To insert the Neuralink brain chip, the company implemented an innovative approach. It involves using a robot to surgically implant the brain-computer interface in a specific brain region responsible for movement intentions. 

Initially, the goal is to enable individuals to control a computer cursor or keyboard through their thoughts. Now, with the progress, other "ambitious" goals will be attainable.

READ NEXT: Elon Musk's X Sued by Its San Francisco HQ Landlord for $13.6 Million, While SpaceX Fined After a Worker Accident

What does the Neuralink brain chip do?

As for its purpose, Elon Musk envisions a future where Neuralink's technology could revolutionize medical treatment. Addressing conditions such as obesity, autism, depression, and schizophrenia through speedy surgical insertions of Neuralink brain chip devices.

However, the company has faced scrutiny over its safety protocols, with concerns raised about its compliance with transportation regulations. Last month, Reuters reported that the company had been fined for violating U.S. Department of Transportation rules regarding the movement of hazardous materials.

Many also worry that Musk might blur the difference between medical innovation and human-computer interaction. 

For now, the world, including the medical industry, will have to wait for the full progress of Neuralink's first human patient.

READ MORE: Elon Musk's Neuralink Raises Another $43 Million as It Gears up for Human Trials

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