In a groundbreaking development, Neuralink, the neurotechnology company founded by Elon Musk, has disclosed the identity of its third patient to receive a brain chip implant.
Bradford Smith, who underwent the procedure in January 2025, is not only the third person to receive the implant but also the first with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who is both paralyzed and non-verbal.
The Neuralink brain chip has transformed Smith’s ability to communicate, allowing him to interact with the world using his thoughts alone. Through the implant, Smith can control a virtual keyboard, enabling him to type and express himself despite his physical limitations. Additionally, he uses a specialized chatbot powered by Grok 3, an AI developed by xAI, which generates text and speaks on his behalf by mimicking his pre-ALS voice. This innovative technology has given Smith a renewed sense of autonomy and connection.
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Smith shared his story in a video posted on X (@ALScyborg), where he opened up about his journey with ALS and the profound impact of the Neuralink implant on his life. In the post, he expressed gratitude to Elon Musk, stating, “Thank you @elonmusk!” for the life-changing technology that has restored his ability to communicate.
The video, which has garnered significant attention, highlights both the potential of Neuralink’s brain-computer interface and Smith’s resilience in the face of a challenging condition.
This milestone underscores Neuralink’s mission to restore autonomy to individuals with severe medical conditions, paving the way for future advancements in neurotechnology. Smith’s story has resonated with many, offering hope to others living with ALS and similar conditions, and showcasing the transformative power of innovation in medicine.
Source: Bradford G Smith on X
