Elon Musk’s brain-chip company Neuralink has enabled a major breakthrough in assistive technology. Audrey Crews, who has been paralysed for over 20 years, is now able to control a computer solely through her thoughts thanks to a Neuralink brain implant. Using the handle @NeuraNova9 on X, she recently shared her first mental attempt at writing her name, as well as pictures of digital doodles she created using only her mind.
In one of her posts, she described the experience:
“Here are some more of my doodles! I’m taking requests. Lol. Imagine your pointer finger is the left click and your wrist controls the cursor but you don’t actually move. Just your mind. It’s like telepathy.”
What is Neuralink?
Founded by Elon Musk in 2016, Neuralink is a neurotechnology company developing brain-computer interface (BCI) systems. The company’s goal is to help individuals with neurological conditions regain digital independence by enabling them to interact with computers and other devices using only their thoughts.
On its official website, Neuralink explains that participants in its clinical trials are already using the implant to control computers and robotic limbs. The device aims to restore autonomy for people with limited mobility and potentially unlock new abilities in the future.
Neuralink began human trials after receiving FDA approval in May 2023, though its animal testing phase has drawn federal scrutiny over safety concerns.
How Does the Implant Work?
Neuralink’s implant is a fully embedded, wirelessly rechargeable device that is invisible once placed in the brain. It records neural signals using ultra-thin, flexible threads that are inserted into the brain’s motor cortex the area responsible for movement.
Audrey Crews provided insight into the procedure, stating:
They drilled a hole in my skull and inserted 128 threads into my motor cortex. The chip itself is about the size of a quarter. I had the surgery last week and everything is going great. The medical team at the University of Miami Health Center was incredible they treated me like royalty.
She emphasized that while the implant enables her to control digital devices with her thoughts, it does not restore her physical movement: I won’t be able to walk again or move my limbs. The implant is purely for thought-based communication.
Audrey also mentioned that she will continue sharing updates and more videos once she returns home from Miami. I’m the first woman in the world to receive this implant. I’ll be posting more soon to explain how it all works.
