Neuralink’s Human Experiment: How a Brain Implant Rewrote One Man’s Future

Noland Arbaugh, the first human to receive a Neuralink brain implant, has become a symbol of the company's ambitious vision to revolutionize human-computer interaction. In January 2024, Arbaugh, who became paralyzed from the shoulders down following a 2016 diving accident, underwent a two-hour procedure to have the device implanted in his brain. The surgery marked a pivotal moment in the development of invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, with Neuralink aiming to restore communication and mobility for individuals with severe neurological impairments. Arbaugh, who humorously described meeting Elon Musk via FaceTime before the procedure, has since become an active advocate for the technology, sharing updates via social media and engaging with the public about his experiences.

The implant, known as N1, initially enabled Arbaugh to control a computer cursor, play video games, and perform basic digital tasks using only his thoughts. Despite initial challenges—such as 85% of the 1024-electrode sensors on the device becoming dislodged in the first month—Neuralink made rapid software and hardware adjustments, improving signal accuracy and restoring functionality. This incident highlighted the unpredictable nature of human clinical trials and underscored the need for refined surgical techniques. In response, Neuralink adjusted its implantation depth and surgical approach to enhance long-term stability.

Arbaugh has since embraced the technology, reporting a dramatic improvement in his quality of life. He spends over ten hours daily using the device, engaging in activities that were previously inaccessible, such as reading, writing, and even live-streaming. In a recent update, he revealed that his 14-month experience with Neuralink has included no significant side effects and has allowed him to pursue educational and professional goals. Notably, Arbaugh has secured employment and is planning to return to school, demonstrating how the technology could enable greater independence for individuals with disabilities.

The success of Arbaugh's case has positioned Neuralink for broader clinical expansion. In 2025, the company announced plans to implant devices in 20–30 additional participants, a significant increase from its initial human trials. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to refine the technology and demonstrate its long-term viability. Neuralink’s CEO, Elon Musk, highlighted the progress during the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), where he also unveiled the “Blindsight” device, a new implant being developed to explore the potential for restoring visual function through neural signaling.

Despite the promising developments, the technology remains in its early stages and faces significant challenges, including long-term signal stability, chronic immune responses in the brain, and ethical considerations around identity and consent. Arbaugh himself has expressed concerns about the potential consequences of device removal, which could disrupt the integration of the device into the user’s life. As Neuralink continues to iterate, the company is also exploring more advanced applications, such as telepathic communication and telekinesis, as evidenced by recent trademark filings.

Public interest in Neuralink has grown alongside its technological progress. Arbaugh, who has amassed nearly 100,000 followers on X, has become a relatable and inspiring figure, humanizing the otherwise abstract concept of brain implants. His candid reflections on life with the device—ranging from the joy of regaining autonomy to the vulnerability of being dependent on cutting-edge technology—have sparked broader conversations about the societal implications of BCIs. Meanwhile, Neuralink continues to work closely with academic researchers and regulatory bodies, aiming to establish a robust framework for the ethical and safe deployment of the technology.