Neuralink successfully implants brain-computer interface in second patient

Elon Musk's brain-computer interface company has successfully implanted its device in a second patient, according to Musk's announcement on Lex Fridman's podcast.

The procedure, which Musk described as having gone "extremely well," follows the initial implantation in quadriplegic Noland Arbaugh, who has reported significant life improvements, such as being able to play video games.

Originally scheduled for June, the second surgery had to be postponed due to the patient's medical condition. Neuralink aims to operate on a total of 10 patients this year, Musk revealed.

Neuralink is also advancing efforts to restore limb function in individuals with paralysis. According to Matthew MacDougall, the company's head surgeon, they have made significant progress in integrating electrodes into the spinal cord to potentially bypass spinal-cord injuries. This technology could enable muscle contractions in previously paralyzed limbs, with preliminary tests showing movement patterns in anesthetized animals.

The company's current device allows patients to control a cursor through thought, but the new advancements aim to further enhance motor function capabilities.