Neuralink's N1 Implant Takes the Next Step
In a landmark move for brain-computer interfaces, Elon Musk's Neuralink has now implanted its N1 device in seven individuals. This pilot group includes patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal cord injuries, marking a crucial phase in the race to translate thought into action.
Thought-Control at Work
The N1 system uses hair-thin threads inserted into the brain to pick up neural signals. A robotic arm performs the precise placement. Wirelessly, these signals are decoded and sent to external devices. Recipients report about 90% accuracy in cursor control. For example, Noland Arbaugh, who was paralyzed by a spinal injury, now browses the web and sends emails using only his mind. Others in the PRIME study at the Barrow Neurological Institute are testing daily tasks – some even back to professional work like CAD design.
Challenges and Competition
Neuralink still lacks FDA approval, restricting use to clinical trials. Critics point to past animal studies that raised safety questions and call for more peer-reviewed data. Meanwhile, rivals like Synchron have treated 10 patients with a less invasive Stentrode device – deployed via catheter to avoid open-brain surgery – and are exploring Apple product integration. Precision Neuroscience is developing non-invasive alternatives too.
Ethics and the Road Ahead
Bioethicist Dr Matthew Liao warns that clear regulations are needed to prevent this technology from becoming a luxury good. Meanwhile, social media clips of thought-controlled typing continue to captivate the public, even as concerns about tech overreach linger.
As Neuralink plans trials with up to 1,000 patients, the seven recipients stand at a crossroads. Will this technology redefine disability care, or will it raise new questions about human augmentation? The next steps could shape both healthcare and society for decades to come.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
