Neuralink Seeks Global Participants for Brain Chip Trials

Elon Musk’s brain-chip company, Neuralink, has announced a global search for patients to participate in its pioneering clinical trials. The company is specifically looking for individuals with quadriplegia — those unable to use their arms or legs — to test its brain-computer interface (BCI) device, which enables users to control computers through neural activity.

In an April 2 post on X (formerly Twitter), Musk’s social media platform, Neuralink revealed that it is actively seeking participants for its clinical trial. The goal is to help people with spinal cord injuries or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) regain some control over their environment by using their thoughts to operate computers, smartphones, and other devices.

Clinical Trial: PRIME Study

The clinical trial, called the Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface (PRIME) study, has been ongoing for several months. As of January 2025, Neuralink confirmed that three patients, all quadriplegic, have already been implanted with the device. These participants are using a small brain implant that tracks neural activity, allowing them to interact with computers through their thoughts.

The PRIME study is expected to take around six years to complete, according to Neuralink website, and is specifically aimed at people who have suffered spinal cord injuries or are living with ALS. The device works by recording the brain’s electrical signals, enabling users to control digital devices without physical movement.

The Future of Brain-Chip Technology

Neuralink is part of a growing field of companies and academic institutions developing brain-computer interfaces. While some approaches use non-invasive devices such as caps or headsets, Neuralink technology involves surgically implanted brain chips. Musk has emphasized that the company’s ambitions go beyond just allowing people to control computers with their minds — he envisions a future where this technology could enhance human capabilities, potentially even giving people “superpowers.”

First Patient Shares Success

One of the first patients to undergo the procedure, Noland Arbaugh, shared his positive experience on social media. In a post on March 28, Arbaugh, a quadriplegic who received the implant a year ago, said he has not experienced any negative physical or psychological side effects from the procedure. Arbaugh demonstrated the chip’s capabilities last year by using it to control a computer cursor, play chess, and browse the internet.

Now, Arbaugh reports using his brain chip for a wide range of activities, estimating that he uses the technology for over 10 hours a day. He shared that the company’s research team is working on using the implant to control a wheelchair, though he is cautious about using it until the technology is flawless. He added that he is already using the implant to enhance his professional life, noting that he has found work as a traveling keynote speaker thanks to his ability to write, research, and communicate online with the help of the device.

“It’s only a matter of time before the implant is in dozens, then hundreds, then thousands of people,” Arbaugh wrote, emphasizing how the technology has given him new hope and purpose in life.

Neuralink’s Ambitious Vision

Neuralink’s progress signals significant advancements in the integration of technology and neuroscience, with the potential to transform the lives of individuals with severe disabilities. Musk’s vision for Neuralink extends far beyond medical applications, as he believes the technology could one day enable humans to merge with machines, unlocking new cognitive and physical capabilities.

As the company continues to refine its brain-chip implant, the clinical trials offer a glimpse into the future of brain-computer interfaces, with Musk's ambitious goal of expanding the technology to more individuals in the years to come. While there are still challenges to overcome, particularly in ensuring the safety and reliability of the devices, the progress made thus far has already sparked excitement among those with disabilities and in the broader tech community.

Neuralink call for global participants represents an important step in the development of cutting-edge technology that could change the way we interact with the world around us.