First Neuralink Brain Chip Implantee Encounters an Issue and It’s Concerning

May. 11, 2024

When talking about Brain-computers or anything as bizarrely cyberpunk-y, Elon Musk-led Neuralink’s first brain chip is at the forefront of it all. Back in February, 29-year-old Noland Arbaugh, the first human to go through this trial, underwent surgery that attached aNeuarlinkimplant to his brain.

This implant helps those with Quadriplegia (a pattern of paralysis) control digital interfaces with nothing but just their thought. Well, now, the companyreportedthat a number of threads of this implant have now “retracted” from his brain.

However, thisretraction of threadsfrom Noland’s brain has resulted in anet decrease in the number of functional electrodes. That automatically impacted the BPS (Behavioural and psychiatric symptoms) of the patient, which understandably means that the implant is not working as intended.

In an attempt to come up with a solution to this obvious setback, Neuralink hasadjusted the recording algorithmand fine tuned the neural-to-digital signal translation techniques as well as enhanced the user experience.

Initially,Neuralink considered removing the implant, but decided against it for these adjustments and enhancements neutralized the supposed threat. So, Noland is not at risk anymore. He has also been optimistic about Neuralink’s potential and how it has allowed him to“play to his heart’s content”.

By now, there are a whole lot of videos and livestreams posted by Neuralink, showcasing Noland playing some chess and Mario Kart. However, during an interview with Neuralink, Noland stated that,

“Sure we’re still working out the kinks and stuff. But once we get this figured out, there’s no reason for the technology not to be out there.”

This definitely doesn’t sound right, right? That brings me to the fact that,

Is Neuralink Rushing to Make the Chip Commercial?

Although the malfunction fortunately didn’t have a negative impact on Noland’s well-being, I don’t think I like the idea of there being pieces or threads of the Neuralink implant floating in my brain. While I understand the idea of finding solace in technology like this that promises a better life, is it worth risking your life for it?

While this malfunctionmayhave been a minor setback, it does raise concerns about the ultimate safety of such technology. Having something like this chip, which has been put together using minuscule components, lodged in my brain doesn’t sound all too appetizing to me, in all honesty. Yes, you may live the cyberpunk dream as it does open doors to that possibility, but at what cost?

What do you think? Do let me know in the comments down below.

Sagnik is a tech aficionado who can never say “no” to dipping his toes into unknown waters of tech or reviewing the latest gadgets. He is also a hardcore gamer, having played everything from Snake Xenzia to Dead Space Remake.