Elon Musk's Neuralink Achieves Milestone: First Brain Chip Successfully Implanted in Human

Neuralink, the neurotechnology company co-founded by Elon Musk, has achieved a significant breakthrough by successfully implanting its first brain chip in a human recipient, as revealed by the billionaire entrepreneur on Tuesday. Musk shared the exciting news on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating that the initial results indicate "promising neuron spike detection."

The groundbreaking development comes after Neuralink initiated a recruitment process last year, seeking participants for its inaugural brain implant trial on humans. The trial, named 'PRIME' (Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface), received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration. Individuals affected by quadriplegia due to a cervical spinal cord injury and those diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) were eligible to participate.

Elon Musk unveiled that the first product arising from Neuralink's efforts will be named 'Telepathy.' The company, established in 2016, envisions creating direct communication channels between the human brain and computers.

The study involves the evaluation of the safety of Neuralink's N1 implant and R1 surgical robot. The primary objective is to assess the initial functionality of the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI), allowing individuals with paralysis to control external devices using their thoughts. Neuralink's technology primarily relies on an implant called 'Link,' which is strategically placed inside the human brain through invasive surgery.

During the study, the R1 Robot is employed to surgically position the ultra-fine and flexible threads of the N1 Implant in a brain region responsible for movement intention. The N1 Implant, once in place, becomes cosmetically invisible and wirelessly transmits recorded brain signals to an app. This app decodes movement intentions, with the initial goal of granting individuals the ability to control a computer cursor or keyboard using their thoughts alone.

Neuralink's successful implantation in a human marks a significant stride toward realizing the company's vision of advancing brain-computer interfaces and fostering direct communication between the human brain and technology.

(With inputs from agencies)