Elon Musk’s neurotechnology company, Neuralink, has reached a significant milestone by successfully implanting its brain-computer interface (BCI) chip, known as “the Link,” into a ninth human participant.

This achievement, announced via Musk’s social media platform X, marks a pivotal advancement in the company’s mission to merge human cognition with digital technology.

The procedure, notably the first instance of Neuralink performing two surgeries in a single day, underscores the company’s growing efficiency and readiness for broader clinical applications.

The Neuralink implant, a coin-sized device embedded in the brain, uses ultra-thin electrodes to record and transmit neural signals, enabling users to control external devices like computers or smartphones through thought alone.

The initial focus is on aiding individuals with severe paralysis, such as those with spinal cord injuries or neurodegenerative diseases like ALS, to regain digital independence.

The first patient, implanted in January 2024, demonstrated the technology’s potential by playing chess and video games using only their thoughts. All participants, including the eighth and ninth, are reportedly recovering well and showing promising early results.

Musk’s vision for Neuralink extends far beyond medical applications. He envisions a future where the technology could bridge the gap between humans and artificial intelligence (AI), a concept he likens to The Matrix.

“As AI becomes smarter and more autonomous, he believes humans may fall behind unless they integrate with it,” Musk has stated, emphasizing the need for humans to keep pace with AI advancements.

Neuralink’s long-term goals include enabling immersive digital experiences, enhancing memory, and even facilitating brain-to-brain communication, potentially transforming how humans interact with technology and each other.

The company’s recent progress follows FDA approval in 2023 to conduct human trials, with Neuralink now planning to expand its trials to 20 to 30 participants by the end of 2025.

Beyond aiding paralysis, Neuralink is exploring applications such as restoring speech for stroke victims, vision for the blind, and even the futuristic possibility of sharing or transferring memories and skills.

“The dream of a real-world Matrix may not be too distant,” the company hints, as each successful implant pushes the boundaries of BCI technology.

However, Neuralink’s journey has not been without challenges. The company has faced scrutiny over its safety protocols, including fines for violating U.S. Department of Transportation regulations related to hazardous material transport.

Additionally, earlier trials encountered issues, such as electrode threads detaching in the first patient, though Neuralink engineers have since made adjustments to improve functionality.

Despite these hurdles, the company’s valuation has soared to $9 billion, bolstered by a $650 million Series E funding round in 2025, supported by investors like ARK Invest and Founders Fund.

Neuralink’s advancements signal a bold step toward a future where human cognition and technology converge, echoing Musk’s ambitious vision. As the company continues to refine its technology and expand its trials, the world watches closely to see how close Neuralink can come to bringing a Matrix-like reality to life.

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