Neuralink begins clinical trials in the UK

Neuralink has officially launched its first clinical trials in the United Kingdom.

Elon Musk’s company has partnered with University College London Hospitals and Newcastle Hospitals to explore how its neural implants could help patients with paralysis regain "augmenting human performance."

Eligible participants include individuals with paralysis resulting from spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Researchers at UCLH will oversee the selection process, aiming to choose seven participants to evaluate the safety and functionality of the brain-computer interface, according to Bloomberg.

Neuralink is developing implants that allow users to control devices using only their thoughts. The first procedure was performed in early 2024, and as of now, at least nine people have received the chip, Bloomberg reports. In addition to the U.S., trials are also underway in Canada and the UAE.

The company is scaling rapidly: by 2031, Neuralink aims to implant up to 20,000 chips annually and open five dedicated clinics.