According to Musk, the patient, whose identity was not disclosed, could move the cursor on the computer screen while thinking about himself after the surgery to implant the Neuralink device into his brain. The device consists of a coin-sized chip with thin wires that connects to neurons in the brain and transmits signals to a wireless receiver.

Musk said the patient was “recovering quickly” and the company plans to release more details soon. He also noted that Neuralink technology could eventually allow people to communicate telepathically, control machines, and even download memories.

However, many researchers specializing in brain-computer interfaces were not impressed by Neuralink’s announcement and expressed several concerns about the company’s approach and transparency.

• FirstThey note that controlling a cursor with a brain implant is nothing new and has been done by other researchers for decades. For example, in 2004, a paralyzed man named Matthew Nagle was able to play a simple video game using a device implanted in his brain. Many studies since then have shown that people can use such devices to perform a variety of tasks, such as writing, drawing, or playing music.
• SecondThey claim that Neuralink has not provided sufficient information to verify its claims or evaluate the safety and effectiveness of its device. For example, they are interested in how the device is placed, how the signals are decoded, how the patient is educated, and how the results are measured. They are also concerned about the potential risks of infection, bleeding, inflammation, or rejection that may result from inserting a foreign object into the brain.
• ThirdThey criticize Neuralink for remaining secretive and exaggerating its achievements without engaging with the scientific community and complying with ethical standards of human research.

Scientists note that Neuralink has not published any peer-reviewed articles, has not registered clinical trials, and has not received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are also questioning the company’s treatment of animals after leaked documents revealed that some monkeys receiving Neuralink implants suffered serious injuries and infections.

Neuralink only shares the information they want us to know. This situation causes great concern in society.
Neurosurgeon Samir Sheth said the following in an interview with Nature magazine.

Despite these criticisms, some experts hope that Neuralink can help the industry grow if it becomes more open and collaborative. It is also worth noting that Elon Musk is not used to criticism of his companies’ approach and solutions.