Neuralink

Overview

Neuralink is Musk's brain-computer interface company, completing its first human implant in January 2024. The N1 implant contains 1,024 flexible electrode channels, precisely placed by the R1 surgical robot into the motor cortex. First patient Noland Arbaugh can now play chess, Civilization VI and control a cursor by thought. Expanded to multiple patients in 2025, including an ALS patient. Ultimate goal: whole-brain interface (10,000+ channels) for human-AI symbiosis. Strengths: industry-leading channel count (1,024 vs competitors' 64-128), fully automated surgery (24-minute procedure). Weaknesses: invasive surgical risk, not yet FDA-approved for commercial use, ethical controversies.