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Elon Musk's Neuralink has revealed a temporary malfunction affecting the brain implant of its first patient, Noland Arbaugh.
The company disclosed this on Thursday, in an update, saying that several electrode-studded threads, designed to interface with brain tissue, began to retract weeks after the device was surgically implanted in January.
Neuralink explained, "This resulted in the device not working properly."
However, the company implemented software fixes that led to "a rapid and sustained improvement" in the implant's function.
Despite the setback, Neuralink highlights the overall success of the ongoing experiment.
"In the weeks since his surgery, Noland has used the link to control his laptop from various positions, including while lying down in bed,” the company stated.
“He plays online computer games with friends (Chess, Civilization VI), browses the internet, live streams, and uses other applications on his MacBook, all by controlling a cursor with his mind," the company added.
Neuralink also shared Noland's ability to play Mario Kart on a Nintendo Switch, a feat he couldn't achieve since his spinal cord injury.
The company is focusing on improving text entry and cursor control for the device, with long-term goals of controlling physical devices like robotic arms and wheelchairs.
