Brain Chip Allows Paralyzed Man to Control Computer with Thoughts
By Lara Lewington, Liv McMahon & Tom Gerken, BBC News
For Noland Arbaugh, controlling a computer with his mind, translating thoughts into commands, is no longer science fiction—it’s reality.
In January 2024, eight years after paralysis, the 30-year-old became the first individual to receive a brain-computer interface (BCI) device from Neuralink, the US-based neurotechnology company.
While not the first brain implant of its kind, as several firms have developed and implemented similar technology, Noland’s case has garnered significant attention due to Neuralink’s founder, Elon Musk.
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However, Noland emphasizes that the focus should be on the scientific advancements rather than on him or Musk.
Speaking to the BBC, he acknowledged the potential hazards involved, stating, “Good or bad, whatever the outcome, I would be contributing.”
He added, “If successful, I could contribute as a Neuralink participant.”
“Conversely, should complications arise, I knew they would gain valuable insights.”
Overcoming Loss of Control and Privacy
Noland, an Arizona resident, experienced paralysis below the shoulders following a diving accident in 2016.
His severe injuries led to concerns about his ability to continue studying, working, or even engaging in leisure activities like gaming.
“The absence of control, the lack of privacy, it’s challenging,” he explained.
“Learning to depend on others for every aspect of life becomes necessary.”
Neuralink’s implant aims to restore some lost autonomy by enabling him to operate a computer using only his thoughts.
This brain-computer interface (BCI) technology functions by detecting minute electrical signals produced when individuals contemplate movement. These signals are then converted into digital instructions, such as directing a cursor on a screen.
This intricate field of study has been the subject of scientific research for decades.
Spotlight on Neuralink and Musk’s Influence
Elon Musk’s involvement has undeniably propelled BCI technology, and Noland Arbaugh’s experience, into prominent news.
This association has attracted substantial investment to Neuralink, as well as amplified scrutiny concerning the safety and implications of such an invasive procedure.
Upon the announcement of Noland’s implant, experts recognized it as a “major advancement,” yet cautioned against premature conclusions, especially given Musk’s proficiency in “generating media attention for his ventures.”
Musk’s initial public response was reserved, posting on social media: “Initial results show promising neuron spike detection.”
However, Noland revealed that in private conversations before and after the operation, Musk expressed considerably more enthusiasm.
“I believe he was equally eager to get started,” Noland recounted.
Nevertheless, he reiterates that Neuralink’s significance transcends its owner, asserting he does not perceive it as merely “an Elon Musk device.”
Whether public perception aligns with this view, particularly given Musk’s increasing involvement in US political discourse, remains to be observed.
Undeniably, the implant has profoundly impacted Noland’s life.
‘Beyond Expectations’
Upon regaining consciousness after the implant surgery, Noland reported immediate ability to manipulate a cursor on screen by visualizing finger movements.
“Frankly, I was uncertain of what to anticipate – it seemed like pure science fiction,” he admitted.
Witnessing his neural activity displayed on a monitor, surrounded by Neuralink’s enthusiastic team, “it became palpable” that he could command a computer through thought alone.
Remarkably, his proficiency with the implant has progressed to the point where he now engages in chess and video games.
“Gaming was a significant part of my upbringing,” he shared, noting it was an activity he “relinquished” after his disability.
“Now, I’m defeating friends in games, an outcome that defies expectation, yet is now reality.”
Noland’s experience powerfully illustrates the technology’s potential to transform lives, but potential downsides exist.
“Privacy is a foremost concern,” stated Anil Seth, Professor of Neuroscience at the University of Sussex.
“If we are transmitting our brain activity […] we are essentially granting access not only to our actions but potentially our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions,” he conveyed to the BBC.
“Once access to our inner thoughts is established, the ultimate barrier to personal privacy dissolves.”
However, Noland’s focus remains on expanding the capabilities of these devices.
He expressed to the BBC his aspiration that the implant might eventually manage his wheelchair or even advanced humanoid robots.
Despite the current capabilities, challenges have occurred.
A device malfunction once led to total computer control loss due to a partial disconnection from his brain.
“That was profoundly disheartening,” he recalled.
“I was uncertain if Neuralink functionality would ever return.”
The connection was re-established and subsequently optimized via software adjustments, but this incident underscored limitations frequently cited by technology experts.
The Growing BCI Industry
Neuralink is part of a growing sector of companies exploring brain-computer interfaces.
Synchron, another company in the field, asserts that its Stentrode device, designed for individuals with motor neuron disease, requires a less invasive implantation procedure.
Instead of requiring open brain surgery, Stentrode is inserted via the jugular vein in the neck and navigated to the brain through a blood vessel.
Like Neuralink’s technology, Stentrode interfaces with the brain’s motor region.
“It detects when a person intends to tap or not tap their finger,” explained Riki Bannerjee, Chief Technology Officer at Synchron.
“Identifying these variations allows for the creation of a ‘digital motor output.'”
This output is converted into computer signals and is currently utilized by 10 individuals.
One user, identified only as Mark, shared with the BBC that he became the first person globally to operate Apple’s Vision Pro headset with the device.
Mark explained this has enabled him to virtually travel to distant locales – from experiencing waterfalls in Australia to hiking mountains in New Zealand.
“I envision a future where this technology significantly improves the lives of individuals facing paralysis,” Mark stated.
For Noland however, a condition exists with his Neuralink implant – his participation is within a six-year study, after which the long-term scenario is uncertain.
Irrespective of his personal trajectory, he believes his participation is merely a preliminary step in realizing the full potential of BCI technology.
“Our understanding of the brain remains limited, and this technology offers significant opportunities for expanded learning,” he concluded.
Additional reporting by Yasmin Morgan-Griffiths.