First Non-Verbal ALS Patient Uses Neuralink Implant

Bradford (Brad) Smith, an Arizona man with advanced ALS, is the first non-verbal and third overall patient to receive a Neuralink brain implant, which is about the size of five stacked quarters and is implanted in his motor cortex. The device enables Smith to control a computer cursor with his mind, allowing him to type and interact with his MacBook Pro. Artificial intelligence, specifically Grok AI, creates speech using a vocal clone based on recordings of Smith's original voice. The implantation was performed by a robotic surgeon for high precision, demonstrating a major advancement for patients with severe paralysis. Smith expressed deep gratitude for the renewed hope and independence the technology provides, emphasizing that the device only decodes intended movements, not his deepest thoughts. Neuralink, founded by Elon Musk, is seeking additional investment as it continues clinical trials to improve life for people with paralysis.