Surgically-Implanted Brain Computers

Neuralink’s first human participant, Noland Arbaugh, has shared how his life has transformed 18 months after receiving the company’s brain-computer interface implant. Arbaugh, who became paralyzed below the shoulders following a swimming accident in 2016, underwent surgery in February 2024 at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix to receive the experimental device.

Since then, Arbaugh has been able to control digital devices with his mind -- playing Mario Kart, browsing the internet, and even managing household appliances. He now uses the device for up to 10 hours a day, pursuing college coursework in neuroscience and launching a professional speaking business. 'I feel like I have potential again,' he said, describing the technology as 'one of the biggest leaps' in decades.

Neuralink’s implant contains over 1,000 electrodes in the motor cortex, offering higher connectivity than most competing BCIs. Unlike wired systems, it is fully wireless, recharging through coils embedded in Arbaugh’s hats. Neuralink has since enrolled additional participants in clinical trials across the U.S., U.K., Canada, and UAE.

Neuralink’s progress demonstrates the commercial and medical potential of invasive brain-computer interfaces. By showcasing a real-world case like Arbaugh’s, the company strengthens investor confidence while highlighting its competitive edge over rivals like Synchron and Blackrock Neurotech. If successful at scale, Neuralink could reshape assistive technology markets, with implications across healthcare, neuroprosthetics, and even consumer tech.

Image Credit: Courtesy of Noland Arbaugh