Neuralink will install its brain implant in a second patient six months after the first procedure. According to co-founder Elon Musk, this advancement hints at a potential integration with Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot.
Neuralink’s next steps in brain implants
Elon Musk shared the latest update during a live stream on X (formerly Twitter). He was accompanied by Neuralink vice president Dongjin ‘DJ’ Seo, head of neurosurgery Matthew MacDougall, and other team members. Preparations for the second implant are underway, with the procedure expected to occur “next week or so.”
Improved version of @Neuralink update pic.twitter.com/zk3cdbMtEC
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 11, 2024
The first recipient, Noland Arbaugh, received the implant in January. Arbaugh, who suffered a paralyzing spinal cord injury in 2016, has been able to control video games like Civilization using only his mind despite some initial complications with the implant.
The first implant had issues when some 64 threads disconnected a week after surgery. The company considered removing the chip but decided to address the problems instead. Currently, 15% of the channels in Arbaugh’s implant are functional. Neuralink has resolved several issues, including loose thread connections that reduced brain response.
Enhancing the implant procedure
Neuralink aims to improve its technology to prevent similar incidents in future procedures. This includes inserting threads deeper into the brain and minimizing the gap under the skull by sculpting its surface. The goal is to establish a seamless connection between the human mind and computers, aiding individuals with paralysis and other severe physical conditions.
Redefining the boundaries of human capability requires pioneers. If you have quadriplegia and want to explore new ways of controlling your computer, we invite you to participate in our clinical trial. pic.twitter.com/svqfAkVV1M
— Neuralink (@neuralink) May 16, 2024
The first implant, ‘Telepathy,’ involves 1,024 electrodes in 64 flexible leads or threads separately installed into the brain. Given the complexity, AI-powered surgical robots are employed instead of human surgeons. Musk and his team are working to streamline the process, reducing surgery time to as little as 10 minutes.
“The device implantation needs to become more automatic,” Musk explained, drawing a parallel with Lasik eye surgery, where the ophthalmologist supervises the process rather than performing it manually.
Integrating with Tesla’s Optimus robot
Neuralink envisions a future of ‘smart living’ where it’s indistinguishable whether a person has an implant. Potential functionalities include telepathy and device control. Musk mentioned that Neuralink aims to provide “superpowers,” restoring previous brain functions and significantly enhancing them.
Musk also teased the integration of Neuralink’s technology with Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot, a development highly anticipated in the tech world. He suggested that individuals who have lost limbs might be able to attach an Optimus arm or leg.
Optimus folds a shirt pic.twitter.com/3F5o3jVLq1
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 15, 2024
With a Neuralink implant, motor commands for biological limbs could be directed to robotic ones, offering what Musk described as “cybernetic superpowers.” The Optimus robot, currently under development, was showcased at the China AI Conference following Musk’s prediction that it could significantly boost Tesla’s market cap.
Prospects and ongoing research
Neuralink acknowledges that a cure for paralysis is not imminent. However, the company has experimented with placing a second brain chip into an animal’s spinal cord, yielding positive results. While human trials for this technique are still years away, the preliminary findings offer hope for future applications.
Neuralink’s ongoing advancements highlight the potential of merging human cognition with advanced robotics. As the company continues refining its technology, integrating with Tesla’s Optimus robot could pave the way for revolutionary developments in assistive technology and human augmentation.
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