First Neuralink Patient Shows How He Draws Using Only His Mind

The first individual to receive a brain implant developed by Elon Musk’s neurotechnology company, Neuralink, has revealed new capabilities enabled by the device. Noland Arbaugh, a quadriplegic man from Arizona, is now able to create digital drawings through direct mental control of a computer interface. The update marks another milestone in Neuralink’s development of its brain-computer interface (BCI) system.

Arbaugh became paralyzed from the shoulders down following a diving accident in 2016. That same year, Neuralink was established with the aim of bridging human cognition with advanced computing through implanted neural devices. Although human trials were only authorized years later, Arbaugh received the first BCI implant in January 2024, following approval in 2023. The N1 chip he received is designed to enable users to control external devices by interpreting neural signals from the brain.

Digital Drawing Through Neural Signals

In a recent demonstration, Arbaugh partnered with Velco Dar, a tech entrepreneur and author of a book on brain-computer interfaces. The two collaborated on a digital canvas where Dar used a standard computer trackpad, while Arbaugh maneuvered the cursor using only mental commands transmitted through his Neuralink chip. Dar later shared the interaction on social media, highlighting the technological breakthrough and their collaborative drawing process.

Despite claiming he lacks artistic skills, Arbaugh showcased how he could sketch recognizable images using his thoughts. On the screen, he drew simple depictions of flowers, the sun, and a house. He explained during the interview that he mentally simulates physical gestures such as clicking, dragging, or specific finger movements in order to manipulate the cursor. For instance, he imagines flicking his thumb to the left or extending his pinky finger to the right to achieve directional input.

The visual feedback of Arbaugh’s actions provided a compelling illustration of what is possible with BCI technology. Dar described witnessing the process as remarkable, particularly because it challenges conventional expectations about human-computer interaction. Arbaugh acknowledged that those unfamiliar with the device often react with amazement, noting that he tends to forget how unusual it is from an outside perspective.

Expanding Applications and Future Potential

Arbaugh’s progress with the Neuralink implant extends beyond digital art. He has previously demonstrated using the system to play chess, engage in video gaming, and practice new languages—all without physical input. These examples point to a broader potential for BCI technology to empower individuals with limited mobility and enhance communication tools.

The brain implant he uses, the N1, is a compact and highly sensitive neural device designed to decode motor intentions and transmit them to connected software platforms. Neuralink’s broader goal involves creating seamless links between the human nervous system and external digital systems, with possible applications in medical rehabilitation, cognitive enhancement, and eventually general computing.