We've been exploring how clinical trial participants can control a powered wheelchair — with their minds. Here's how…

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Summary

Neuralink has successfully enabled clinical trial participants to control a powered wheelchair using only their thoughts through a brain-computer interface with over 1,000 electrodes implanted in the motor cortex. A machine learning algorithm decodes neural activity to translate the participant's intention to move into cursor and wheelchair commands, allowing them to navigate real-world environments independently.

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#1
We've been exploring how clinical trial participants can control a powered wheelchair — with their minds. Here's how we’re doing it 🧵
#2
The Neuralink implant has over 1,000 electrodes sitting across over 100 threads, each thinner than a human hair and inserted into the motor cortex by our surgical robot. The electrodes record the activity of neurons that fire as a participant intends to move.
#3
A machine learning model maps that neural activity to a computer cursor moving up, down, left, and right. The result is a decoding algorithm that enables the participant to control the cursor with their thoughts.
#4
Our participants see a live video feed from a wheelchair mounted camera. As they move the cursor with their thoughts, they can drive forward, reverse, steer, and even adjust seating positions.
#5
We're studying how participants can navigate real-world environments using this system. There’s more to do, but this provides a glimpse into how Neuralink can help restore independent mobility for people with paralysis.
#6
Neuralink devices are investigational and have not been approved by the FDA or other regulatory authorities. This video features voluntary clinical trial participants sharing their personal experiences, which may not reflect all participants or future outcomes.