![Neuralink Achieves Major Breakthrough With Second Human Brain-Chip Implant](https://assets.timelinedaily.com/j/1203x902/2024/08/thumbnail-17-1114x900.jpg)
The team is working on decoding multiple clicks and simultaneous movement focused to deliver full mouse and video game functionality.
Billionaire Elon Musk’s neurotechnology company Neuralink released the details of its first comprehensive update after successfully implanting the brain chips into a second human recipient. “Last month, Alex, the second participant in our PRIME Study, received his Neuralink implant. Alex was discharged the following day, and his recovery has been smooth. With the Link, he has been improving his ability to play video games and has begun learning how to use computer-aided design (CAD) software to design 3D objects. This marks another significant step towards providing a high-performance interface that will enhance the control of digital devices for people with quadriplegia to help restore their autonomy.” Neuralink said in a blog post.
The blog post further stated his experience as the recipient Alex connected his Link to the computer and he took less than 5 minutes to control the cursor with his mind. He was able to surpass the maximum speed and accuracy within a few hours. Alex broke the previous world record for brain-computer interface (BCI) just as their first participant Noland, using the Link.
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Neuralink noticed a degree of thread retraction with the first participant Noland temporarily reducing his BCI performances. Since his performance has recovered the threads have stabilised more than doubling the prior world record for BCI cursor control. They implemented an array of mitigation to reduce the probability of thread retraction in Alex (second participant). It includes the reduction of brain motion during the surgery also the narrowing of the gap between the implant and the surface of the brain.
Neuralink affirmed that the team haven’t observed any thread retraction in their second participant Alex. “Taking an idea, putting it as a design, and having a physical item as a finished product makes me feel like I’m building things again,” said Alex, the second participant.
The team is working on decoding multiple clicks and simultaneous movement focused to deliver full mouse and video game functionality. Neuralink is also on a mission to develop algorithms to recognize handwriting aims to enable faster text entry. This will not only restore digital autonomy for those who are unable to use their limbs but also help restore the ability to communicate for those who are unable to speak due to neurological conditions.
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