Neuralink says 12 people have received brain implants

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Elon Musk's brain implant company Neuralink has said 12 people worldwide have now received its experimental chips, nearly doubling the number since June.

In a post on X, Neuralink said the patients — many with severe paralysis — have collectively used their devices for 2,000 days and logged more than 15,000 hours of activity, controlling digital and physical tools through thought. 

In June, partner Barrow Neurological Institute had disclosed that seven individuals were implanted.

Neuralink added that it is preparing to expand its research footprint, launching a clinical study in Great Britain in partnership with University College London Hospitals and Newcastle Hospitals. 

The company, which secured USD 650 million in funding in June, began human trials in 2024 after overcoming safety objections raised earlier by the US Food and Drug Administration.

Founded in 2016 by Musk, Neuralink aims to develop a brain–computer interface that can help people with neurological disorders restore communication, movement, and independence. 

Musk has also pitched longer-term ambitions such as enabling "symbiosis with artificial intelligence."

While early trials have reported promising signs, Neuralink has faced scrutiny. 

Animal-rights groups and some medical experts have criticised the company's preclinical testing practices and raised concerns about surgical risks, device durability, and long-term safety. 

The FDA initially rejected its 2022 application to begin human testing, citing device and surgical safety issues, before approving trials the following year.