Breakdown
- Neuralink has successfully given their first human patient a brain implant
- This implant lets them use computers and play games like Civilization 6
- Technology continues to improve in benefitial ways
The first ever human to have a Neuralink brain implant has responded positively to this procedure. Not only does this experiment let them use computers with their mind, but it also lets them play several games like Chess and Civilization 6, which is an amazing accomplishment.
On Neuralink’s Twitter account (via PC Mag), it was revealed that the first person to get this brain implant was 29-year-old Nolan Arbaugh. Eight years ago, Arbaugh lost all ability to use his limbs after a freak diving accident and he agreed to have the brain implant back in January.
After a successful surgery, Arbaugh was able to show what the Neuralink implant can do, as it now allows him to use computers more comfortably. We can’t imagine what it’s like to lose the use of your limbs, so knowing that he can now use modern technology is quite comforting.
Like the headline says, this Neuralink brain implant allows Arbaugh to play games on PC. Arbaugh was a big fan of Civilization 6 and was worried that he wouldn’t be able to complete it anymore, but that’s changed. Now that computers can react to his brain wave patterns, he can play the game while lying down like he normally does.
“It was awesome. I had basically given up on playing that game,” Arbaugh said. “I have to worry about a lot of things, like getting pressure sores. Things like that…Now I can just literally lie in my bed, and play to my heart’s content.”
The procedure isn’t perfect, as Arbaugh has said that this implant isn’t perfect, though he didn’t clarify as to why. Hopefully, some tinkering can be done and he will continue to have fun with this bit of technology.
Neuralink should be commended for making this work, especially since this is their very first human patient to attempt this surgery. Seeing this technology pay off is good for everyone involved, as this can help out future patients who’ve gone through similar incidents.