Neuralink begins testing brain-controlled assistive robotics
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Neuralink has officially welcomed its first participant to the CONVOY study, which will test its brain-computer interface (BCI) for controlling assistive robotic devices. The study builds on the success of the PRIMARY study, where Neuralink’s BCI, called Link, enabled paralyzed participants to control computers using their thoughts.
Expanding the Capabilities of Neuralink’s BCI
The CONVOY (Control of Assistive Devices via BCI Technology) study focuses on using Link to control assistive robotic arms (ARA). Neuralink stated, “ARA control expands autonomy beyond smart devices and could allow people with paralysis to perform tasks in daily life such as feeding themselves and handling physical objects.”
Neuralink’s work aligns with Elon Musk’s broader vision of integrating Link with Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus. In Tesla’s recent earnings call, Musk emphasized Tesla’s focus on developing human-precision robotic hands that could perform delicate tasks such as threading a needle or playing the piano.
Meet Neuralink’s First CONVOY Participant: Alex
Alex, the first participant in the CONVOY study, was left paralyzed from the neck down after a car accident. Through Neuralink’s PRIMARY study, Alex regained the ability to design 3D objects and graphics by controlling computer software with his mind.
With the CONVOY study, Alex is taking a step further—potentially using Link to control physical robotic limbs. “It’s such an amazing feeling being able to go from a concept to an actual working piece of equipment that does exactly what I want,” said Alex. “I want everyone—disabled and non-disabled—to have the desire to create something new.”
Recent Breakthroughs in Human Trials
Thought-Controlled Robotic Arm: A Neuralink patient successfully wrote the word "convoy" using a robotic arm controlled entirely by brain signals56. This achievement under the Convoy Study aims to restore limb control for paralyzed individuals.
Expanded Patient Implants: As of January 2025, three patients have received Neuralink’s N1 brain-chip implant, with plans for 20–30 more in 202517. The second patient, implanted in August 2024, regained partial electrode functionality (400 out of 1,024 electrodes)24, while the first patient, Noland Arbaugh, can now play video games and browse the internet via thought.
Technological Ambitions
Language Decoding: Neuralink is advancing toward translating neural activity into coherent language using machine learning, potentially enabling communication for those with speech impairments.
Medical Applications: Musk envisions treating conditions like memory loss, addiction, and schizophrenia with future BCI iterations. The Blindsight project, targeting vision restoration via brain stimulation, received FDA Breakthrough Device status in September 2024.
Regulatory and Ethical Challenges
USDA Investigation Disruption: Phyllis Fong, the USDA inspector general investigating Neuralink’s animal welfare practices since 2022, was forcibly removed from her post in January 2025 during a broader Trump administration purge of federal watchdogs. Critics argue the dismissal undermines oversight of Neuralink’s compliance with animal testing regulations.
Ethical Debates: Concerns persist about privacy risks, data security, and the long-term safety of invasive brain implants.
Upcoming Goals
Human-AI Integration: Musk reiterated plans to merge human cognition with artificial intelligence using Neuralink, calling it a defense against potential AI threats.
Enhanced Mobility: The company aims to enable paralyzed patients to walk using advanced neural interfaces.
Neuralink’s progress highlights both the transformative potential of BCIs and the complex ethical and regulatory landscape surrounding emerging neurotechnologies.
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