Musk's Neuralink launches new trial: brain-computer implants and robotic arms help paralyzed patients

The Zhitong Finance App learned that Elon Musk's brain technology startup Neuralink announced on Monday that it has received approval to launch a new study aimed at evaluating the viability of its brain implants and experimental robotic arms. Based on its ongoing PRIME project, the study will focus on the safety of wireless brain-computer interfaces and surgical robots, and initially test the effects of these implants in helping quadriplegic patients control external devices with their minds.

Neuralink revealed these plans in an article on social media platform X, saying it will cross-recruit participants in the ongoing PRIME trial to further explore the potential of its brain implantation technology.

Although the US Food and Drug Administration and Neuralink have yet to disclose the details of the study in detail, this development marks an important step in Neuralink's advancement in brain-computer interface technology.

NeuraLink plans to recruit volunteers from existing Prime trial participants to participate in this feasibility study. Last week, the company received approval in Canada to recruit six paralyzed patients to participate in device trials. In the Canadian trial, neurosurgeons working with Neuralink have received regulatory approval to recruit participants to evaluate the effectiveness of the device in practical applications.

In the US, Neuralink has successfully implanted devices into two patients. One patient is already able to play video games, browse the internet and social media through thinking, while the other patient is using the device to play video games and learn 3D design.

It can be seen from this that Neuralink has achieved initial success. Both patients with implanted devices have shown the ability to use the device to control external devices, which provides a positive signal for future research and application.