Neuralink, Elon Musk's neurotechnology firm, has successfully implanted its brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) in five human patients as of August 19, 2025. This development marks a significant stride in restoring lost bodily functions and exploring enhancements to human capabilities.
The company's progress began with its first human implant in January 2024, enabling a paralyzed individual to control a computer cursor using only thought. By January 2025, a third patient received an implant, and Neuralink plans to expand its trials to an additional 20-30 participants throughout the current year. These trials are critical for refining the technology and understanding its real-world applications. Patient testimonials highlight the profound impact of Neuralink's technology, with one individual demonstrating the BCI's capabilities by editing and narrating a YouTube video solely through thought.
Looking ahead, Neuralink's "Blindsight" product aims to restore vision, with the company targeting its initial human implant for this device by the end of 2025. This initiative seeks to provide sight to individuals with total visual impairment by directly stimulating the visual cortex, bypassing damaged optic nerves. Neuralink's ambitious roadmap includes achieving at least $1 billion in annual revenue by 2031, with a long-term objective of implanting its neural chips in 20,000 individuals annually. Furthermore, the company intends to introduce a product aimed at treating neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease by 2027.
Neuralink has also received FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for its speech restoration implant, indicating progress in enabling communication for those with severe speech impairments. As of June 2025, the company secured $650 million in funding, valuing it at approximately $9 billion, and is expanding its trials internationally.