Noland Arbaugh
Noland Arbaugh | |
|---|---|
| Born | Yuma, Arizona, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Known for | First human recipient of a Neuralink brain-computer interface implant |
Noland Arbaugh is an American individual known for being the first human recipient of Neuralink's brain-computer interface (BCI) implant. He gained attention for his use of the device to regain digital autonomy after a spinal cord injury left him quadriplegic.
Early life and education
Arbaugh was born in Yuma, Arizona. He was a student and athlete at Texas A&M University. In 2016, while working as a summer camp counselor, Arbaugh experienced a diving accident and suffered a severe spinal cord injury that led to quadriplegia, paralysis from the shoulders down.[1]
Neuralink brain-computer interface
In a groundbreaking procedure, Arbaugh became the first person to receive a brain chip implant developed by Neuralink, a neurotechnology company co-founded by Elon Musk.
Post-surgery experience
Arbaugh reported that the surgery was straightforward and that he was released from the hospital the following day without cognitive impairments.
The technology provided by Neuralink has significantly changed Arbaugh's life, giving him a level of independence that had not been possible since his accident.[2] The implant allows him to control a computer cursor with his thoughts, enabling him to perform digital tasks.[3][4] Despite encountering some issues with the chip, he has been able to use it to play games like Civilization 6 and learn languages such as Japanese and French.[5]
Arbaugh's story has been featured in various news outlets, highlighting the potential of BCI technology to revolutionize care for individuals with disabilities.[6]
References
- ^ "Arizona native Noland Arbaugh is first Neuralink patient: what to know". Arizona Republic. Retrieved 8 May 2024.
- ^ "Arizona native Noland Arbaugh is first Neuralink patient: what to know". Arizona Republic. Retrieved 8 May 2024.
- ^ "Neuralink's brain chip encounters issues post surgery, says Elon Musk's company". MSN. Retrieved 8 May 2024.
- ^ "Elon Musk's Neuralink responds to 'Brain-Implant' malfunction, implications for FDA approval and future trials". LiveMint. Retrieved 8 May 2024.
- ^ "Neuralink brain chip patient Noland Arbaugh plays chess, video shows". USA Today. Retrieved 8 May 2024.
- ^ "Neuralink Says Its First Brain Chip Implant Has Encountered A Problem". NDTV. Retrieved 8 May 2024.