Neuralink Pioneer Embeds Video, Narrates Seamlessly via Brain Chip
Brad Smith Demonstrates Everyday Use of Neuralink Chip
Brad Smith is the third person worldwide—and the first ALS patient—to receive Elon Musk’s Neuralink brain‑chip implant. His newfound ability to command a computer mouse with brain signals offers a vivid look at how the technology works in everyday life.
How the Implant Works
- The chip rests in Smith’s motor cortex, roughly the size of five quarters, and contains more than 1,000 electrodes.
- Neuralink interprets specific brain waves that indicate where and how Smith wants the cursor to move, not a continuous stream of thoughts.
- After initial experiments with hand‑movement imagery, Smith discovered that thinking about moving his tongue and clenching his jaw produced the most reliable cursor control.
Editing a Video with Brain Signals
In last week’s YouTube upload, Smith explains that the brain‑computer interface (BCI) allowed him to edit a video directly on his MacBook Pro. The video is the first edited entirely using Neuralink or any BCI system.
Synthesizing Smith’s Own Voice
Using recordings from before he lost speech, an AI model recreated a synthetic version of Smith’s voice. The synthetic narration let him speak the video’s commentary in his own voice, overcoming his mobility and speech limitations.
Interaction with Elon Musk
A separate video from reporter and Musk biographer Ashlee Vance shows Elon Musk calling Smith during a home visit by Neuralink’s team. The call highlights Musk’s personal engagement with patients using the chip.
Related Stories
Neuralink Implant Lets Smith Engage in Family Gaming
The Neuralink device has enabled Smith to play video games alongside his children. Footage captured him competing in Mario Kart, a moment that underscores the implant’s role in fostering shared experiences.
Personal Reflections
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Smith expressed that the journey to this point took years “and I still break down and cry.” He revealed that having a purpose beyond himself “is really nice” and that he is eager to serve others through future work.
Industry Outreach
Business Insider has reached out to Smith for additional comments. Neuralink, previously tested on monkeys, implanted its device in a human for the first time in January 2024.
Human Case Study
Quadriplegic Noland Arbaugh, the first human patient, previously told Business Insider that the implant helped him regain independence, control, and new social connections. Smith’s story adds a human perspective to this emerging technology.
