Mind Over Matter: Plays Chess with Brain Chip

Neuralink Makes Strides in Brain-Computer Interfaces: First Patient Plays Chess with His Mind

Elon Musk's Neuralink, a company working on brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, has reached a significant milestone. In a recent livestream, Neuralink showcased its first human patient using a brain implant to control a computer and play an online chess game.

Paralyzed Patient Regains Ability to Play Games

The patient, 29-year-old Noland Arbaugh, became paralyzed from the shoulders down after a diving accident eight years ago. The implant, called "Telepathy," is designed to allow users to control devices like computers and phones with their thoughts alone.

Arbaugh, in the livestreamed video hosted on Elon Musk's social media platform X, described the surgery as "super easy" and highlighted his regained ability to play games. "I had basically given up playing that game," he said, referring to the strategy game Civilization VI, "you all [Neuralink] gave me the ability to do that again and played for 8 hours straight."

Implant Uses Brain Signals to Move Cursor

The video demonstration showed Arbaugh playing chess online. While not explicitly stated as telepathic mind control of the chess pieces themselves, the implant allowed Arbaugh to control the computer cursor with his thoughts, enabling him to make chess moves. This highlights the potential of the technology to restore functionality and independence for people with paralysis.

Telepathy: A Pioneering Product in Brain-Computer Interface

Neuralink has stated that Telepathy is its first commercial product offering. The company uses a robotic system to precisely implant the BCI device in the region of the brain responsible for controlling movement intentions. The implant's ultra-fine threads then pick up and transmit these brain signals.

Challenges and Looking Ahead

Arbaugh acknowledged that the technology is still under development. "It's not perfect," he said, "and we have run into some issues." However, his experience and the successful chess game demonstration mark a significant step forward for Neuralink and BCI technology as a whole.

The future of Neuralink's brain-chip technology holds immense promise for individuals with paralysis and other neurological conditions. As the technology continues to develop and refine, it has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with the world around us.