Thanks to the Neuralink implant, Brad Smith, a patient with advanced-stage ALS, has regained the ability to look at his surroundings by controlling a camera using signals sent from his brain.
The transhumanism movement, which aims to enhance human capabilities and improve the quality of life, is no longer just a philosophical discussion. One of the most concrete examples of this transformation is the story of Brad Smith, who uses the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology developed by Elon Musk’s company, Neuralink.
The Neuralink Revolution is Advancing Rapidly
Smith has lost almost all motor control for seven years due to advanced-stage ALS. Previously, he communicated using a system called Eyegaze, which allowed him to select letters with his eye movements. However, this system only worked in suitable lighting conditions, severely limiting Smith’s range of motion and communication possibilities.
In November 2024, Smith became the third person to receive Neuralink’s brain implant and the first ALS patient to participate in this trial. Initially learning to move a computer cursor through thought, Smith later integrated his implant with an Insta360 Link 2, a 4K resolution webcam with a motorized gimbal. This allows him to rotate, move up-and-down, and zoom the camera merely by thinking. Smith describes this system as a “second pair of eyes” because he can now follow what is happening in the room, direct his attention to conversations, and interact more naturally with his environment. Insta360 even communicated directly with Smith and his family to optimize the camera for his needs.
Engineers recalibrated the interface to transfer Neuralink’s signals to the camera more naturally. Thanks to software adjustments, the camera now responds to Smith’s mental commands more quickly and fluently.
Neuralink’s Success Stories are Impressive
Currently, 12 people are using Neuralink’s brain implants. And every one of them is experiencing incredible and promising developments. Nick, another ALS patient, successfully controlled a robotic arm to feed himself. Paul, paralyzed due to motor neuron disease, started controlling a computer a few hours after surgery and subsequently played his favorite game, Dawn of War.
Alex Conley, one of the first recipients of the company’s N1 implant and who sustained a spinal cord injury, is now controlling a robotic arm and managing almost all of his daily tasks independently.
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