In January, Elon Musk disclosed that his brain-computer interface startup Neuralink had achieved a milestone by implanting a wireless brain chip in a human for the first time.
Over the subsequent months, Noland Arbaugh, aged 29, demonstrated tasks like moving a cursor using his mind, playing Civilization VI, and even engaging in a fast-paced round of Mario Kart.
However, the Wall Street Journal has revealed complications behind the scenes.
Neuralink acknowledged in a blog post that issues arose with the implant.
The problem emerged when the data streaming rate from Arbaugh’s implant declined over time, indicating a potential issue with the quarter-sized device.
The N1 chip, implanted robotically in Arbaugh’s skull, comprises a microprocessor, battery, communications chip, and 64 ultra-thin threads inserted into the brain’s motor cortex for wireless intention relay.
Some threads retracted post-surgery, potentially due to trapped air in the skull, affecting electrode effectiveness.
Neuralink stated that despite fewer electrodes, they increased data transmission by refining the recording algorithm and signal translation techniques, surpassing Arbaugh’s initial performance.
Neuralink anticipated challenges, informing the FDA of potential solutions for upcoming surgeries.
Neuralink aims to implant two more patients in the coming months and ten in total this year, seeking to enhance technology accessible to those with limb control loss.
While not groundbreaking, Neuralink’s wireless brain signal translation builds on existing technology, making it more accessible.
Independent evaluation of Neuralink’s claims is necessary. Arbaugh remains optimistic about the possibilities.
“I’ve glimpsed what the possibilities are, and now it’s hard to live any other way,” Arbaugh told the WSJ in March. “So I would say to the next patient, the next candidate, just to enjoy it as much as possible.”
