Nolan Arbaugh, a brain-computer interface trial participant, stated that his brain chip can be remotely wirelessly upgraded to enhance system speed, accuracy, signal processing capabilities, and reliability.
Moreover, Neuralink's telepathy app will regularly receive updates from the cloud.
Currently, the brain-computer interface industry is focused on reducing the 'invasiveness' of device implantation or updates.
Recently, Nolan Arbaugh, the world's first participant in Neuralink's invasive brain-computer interface trial, announced that his brain chip can undergo OTA upgrades, with the update process being similar to Tesla's over-the-air updates for its vehicles.
According to Arbaugh, Neuralink's brain-computer interface system currently uses three main update methods: The first is application updates. Neuralink has developed a custom app called “Telepathy.” Patients can run this software on their phones or computers to control devices with their thoughts. This software will also receive regular updates from the cloud like any other app.
The second is firmware updates for the implant, i.e., OTA upgrades. Neuralink’s brain chips run firmware that can be updated wirelessly, meaning patients can enhance the speed, accuracy, signal processing capability, and reliability of the brain-computer interface system without surgery, akin to Tesla’s OTA upgrades.
Arbaugh cited an example where he initially faced an 85% electrode wire detachment after the implant. Neuralink resolved the issue by improving the sensitivity of the remaining 15% of electrodes through an OTA upgrade.
Moreover, Neuralink’s brain-computer interface can also be updated by surgically implanting more advanced equipment. Arbaugh stated that if given the opportunity to upgrade his brain chip in the future, or even to implant a dual-brain interface system one day, he would not hesitate to undergo the surgery.
Public information shows that Arbaugh, who became paralyzed below the neck, chose to have a brain-computer interface device implanted. He is now able to type with his thoughts and complete daily learning tasks. In response, Elon Musk mentioned that Arbaugh might become the first person to implant a dual-brain interface device to enhance his abilities.
Including wireless remote upgrades, the brain-computer interface industry is working to reduce the 'invasiveness' during the implantation or updating of devices. Previously, Neuralink President DJ Seo proposed using surgical robots to achieve 'cranial needle insertion,' which could shorten the insertion time of a single electrode from over ten seconds to 1.5 seconds. Meanwhile, Merge Labs, co-founded by 'GPT’s father' Sam Altman, aims to lower the invasiveness of brain-computer interfaces by utilizing deep-penetrating methods such as ultrasound.
At the beginning of this month, Neuralink announced its plan to initiate mass production of brain-computer interface devices by 2026 and advance fully automated surgical procedures. China Galaxy Securities summarized that while the United States currently leads in invasive cutting-edge technologies, Chinese enterprises are rapidly catching up under policy guidance and capital support, exploring new pathways for non-invasive brain-computer interfaces to achieve high throughput, low trauma, and long-term in vivo applications.
Looking ahead, the aforementioned institutions predict that 2026 may be a pivotal year for brain-computer interface technology to transition from labs to broader markets. Beyond medical rehabilitation applications, brain-computer interfaces are being integrated with cutting-edge fields such as humanoid robotics, smart homes, and the metaverse. According to Tebon Securities, with Neuralink scaling up production and policy support, the registration of related domestic medical device companies is expected to accelerate, driving commercial progress.
Editor/Melody