The patient, known as Alex, was paralysed after a spinal cord injury and now uses an implant to enhance his abilities.

Before receiving the Neuralink implant, Alex played Counter-Strike 2 using a QuadStick controller, which limited his ability to move and aim simultaneously. However, with the implant, Alex can now control his in-game movements and aim with his thoughts, providing a more immersive and natural gaming experience.

It’s nice to just run (while playing) because I can look around and not have to move the QuadStick left and right.
shared Alex.

Second Neuralink patient plays CS 2: watch video

In addition to playing games, Alex uses his Neuralink implant to work on 3D projects using a CAD program—an early example of the chip’s versatility.

Alex uses Neuralink for 3D modeling: watch the video

A custom mount, designed and 3D printed specifically for Alex, holds the charger for the Neuralink implant, making it easy to use during prolonged activity.

Neuralink problems

Neuralink’s first patient encountered complications when about 85% of the electrodes connected to his brain became dislodged, disrupting the chip’s functionality. To prevent recurrence, Neuralink implemented several improvements that reduced the risk of air pockets during surgery and also placed the chip deeper into the brain tissue.

It is encouraging that we did not observe any thread pullback in our second participant,
– reported in the company.

Neuralink continues to develop its technology with the aim of giving the implant full mouse and video game controller functionality. The company also plans to give users the ability to interact with the physical world, potentially allowing them to feed and move themselves by controlling a robotic arm or wheelchair.