On September 9, Elon Musk's brain - computer implantation technology firm, Neuralink, revealed that 12 people around the world have participated in the implantation trials of its self - developed brain - computer chip, the N1. The patients have collectively used the device for over 2,000 days, which amounts to more than 15,000 hours.

Earlier, in June, its partner, the Barrow Neurological Institute, implanted the device in seven paralyzed patients. Following the implantation, patients who had lost their speech ability due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) regained the capacity to play video games, design 3D components, control robotic arms, and engage in communication.

Established in 2016, Neuralink is dedicated to developing high - bandwidth, minimally invasive brain - computer interface devices. Its overarching goal is to facilitate direct communication between the human brain and computers. After resolving the safety concerns raised by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2024, the company embarked on human trials.

In June this year, it successfully completed a Series E funding round, raising $650 million and boosting its valuation to $9 billion. In July, the company announced its plan to conduct clinical trials in the UK. It will collaborate with institutions like the University College London Hospitals to assess the chip's potential in helping paralyzed patients control tools using their thoughts.

This month, Musk declared that the company might strive to restore partial vision for visually impaired patients by 2026. Moreover, he mentioned that the 'Telepathy' implantation device has been successfully implanted outside the United States for the first time.