Elon Musk's first Neuralink brain chip patient Noland Arbaugh shares 100-day update; says “I can’t imagine life without it”

Nuralink's first patient

• Noland Arbaugh marks 100 days with Neuralink brain implant
• He controls computers and games using only his thoughts
• Implant boosts accessibility for people with paralysis

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Noland Arbaugh, the first person to receive Elon Musk’s Neuralink brain implant, has completed 100 days with the device and shared his experience in a detailed social media post. Arbaugh, who has been paralysed from the shoulders down since 2016 following a diving accident, described how the implant has changed the way he interacts with technology and his daily life.

From surgery to activation

Arbaugh explained that the procedure involved implanting ultra-thin threads into his motor cortex using a robotic system. The surgery required a small incision and was followed by a quick recovery period. Within a week, he noted visible healing and said he felt mentally sharper once the brain-computer interface was activated.

He described the overall experience as “science fiction that somehow became my everyday reality,” reflecting on how quickly the transition from surgery to usability took place.

Learning to control devices with thought

After activation, Arbaugh began learning how to control a computer cursor using his thoughts. Initial sessions involved calibration, where he trained his brain to translate intention into movement. Over time, actions such as scrolling, clicking and typing became more natural.

He also connected the system to an Apple MacBook and reported that the integration allowed him to use the device without physical input. In one part of his update, he wrote, “I went from being completely new to using a Mac to navigating it entirely with my mind.”

Gaming and real-world usage

As his control improved, Arbaugh started using the system for gaming. By around Day 80, he was able to play World of Warcraft using only thought-based inputs. He noted that the experience improved with practice, eventually becoming smoother and more responsive.

Describing the shift, he said, “I’m now doing everything hands-free — no mouse, no keyboard, just intention,” highlighting how the technology has expanded his ability to interact with digital environments.

What the 100-day milestone shows

Reflecting on his journey, Arbaugh said, “100 days in and I already can’t imagine life without it.” He added that the implant has not only helped him use computers but also changed his approach to everyday activities.

Neuralink’s technology is still undergoing clinical trials, but Arbaugh’s experience offers an early look at how brain-computer interfaces could improve accessibility and independence for people with paralysis.