In a recent update, Neuralink shared progress on the second participant in their clinical trials, conducted in July 2024. The company successfully established a neuro interface on a patient named Alex, a former car mechanic, during an operation at the Barrow Neurology Institute.
Following the procedure, Alex was discharged the next day. He quickly connected his implant to a computer and found that he was able to control the cursor using only his thoughts within minutes. By the end of the day, he had surpassed his previous speed and accuracy achieved with other computer control devices.
Excited by his initial success, Alex continued to explore the capabilities of the implant in his daily life. He used the chip to enhance his gaming experience with the popular Counter-Strike 2 shooter, combining it with a specialized joystick called Quadstick. This combination allowed him to move and aim simultaneously, a task that was previously impossible using only the Quadstick. Alex expressed his amazement at the intuitive functionality of the system, stating, “Just running around the game and at the same time looking around has become much easier.”
Moreover, Alex had long aspired to master 3D design (CAD), but existing assistive technologies had proven insufficient for him. However, just two days after receiving the implant, he successfully used the Fusion 360 program to create a custom mount for the Neuralink charger. The project was then printed on a 3D printer and seamlessly integrated into his home workstation.
Neuralink revealed that they are continuously working on enhancing the functionality of the implant to expand the user’s ability to control digital devices. Their future plans include adding support for multiple types of clicks and simultaneous movements, aiming to make the interface not only useful for gaming but also for various other tasks. The ultimate goal is to assist individuals with motor activity disorders in regaining control over both digital devices and physical objects like robotic limbs and wheelchairs.