Elon Musk’s Neuralink Brain Chip Implanted in Miami Patient in Groundbreaking Clinical Trial
FLORIDA – A paralyzed military veteran has become the first patient in Miami — and one of only seven people in the U.S. — to receive Elon Musk’s Neuralink brain chip, a high-tech implant designed to allow users to control computers and devices using only their thoughts.
The surgery was conducted at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine as part of a clinical trial by The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. The patient, known publicly only as RJ, suffered a spinal cord injury in a motorcycle accident and was implanted with the Neuralink “Telepathy” chip in April 2025.
How the Brain Chip Works
The Neuralink device is a coin-sized, wireless, rechargeable brain chip that’s surgically inserted into the area of the brain that controls movement. It connects to the brain via over 60 ultra-thin threads, implanted with a robotic system designed to be more precise than human hands.
Once in place, the device records and transmits brain signals to software that decodes those thoughts into actions. According to The Miami Herald, RJ has used the system to play video games, move a computer cursor, and even turn on his TV, all without touching a remote.
“The surgery went perfect,” said Dr. Jonathan Jagid, the trial’s principal investigator at UM. RJ was discharged from the hospital the next day.
Elon Musk Celebrates Breakthrough in Miami
Elon Musk, Neuralink’s co-founder, visited UM and took photos with the medical staff following RJ’s procedure. Musk recently stated that Neuralink is moving cautiously and closely with regulators to ensure patient safety before expanding to wider use.
“This is one giant step forward,” said The Buoniconti Fund, the nonprofit that supports the Miami Project, in a tweet celebrating RJ’s milestone.
Who Can Enroll in Neuralink’s Trials?
Neuralink is currently seeking volunteers ages 22–75 who are paralyzed from spinal cord injuries or ALS to join the Telepathy clinical trial. Participants must have limited or no ability to use their hands.
This trial at UM follows the first human implant done at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix. Neuralink also has plans to expand its trials into Canada, the UK, and the UAE, according to Neuralink President DJ Seo.
What It Feels Like to Use the Chip
RJ described the experience of using the chip as “like using the Force.” During a June 27 event, he demonstrated how he could wirelessly play games like Call of Duty and Mario Kart using just his brain.
“I think my favorite thing’s probably being able to turn on my TV. That was a pretty sweet move,” RJ said.
A Step Toward Curing Paralysis
Marc Buoniconti, president of The Miami Project and son of late Miami Dolphins player Nick Buoniconti, said the trial is a hopeful advancement for those living with paralysis.
RJ’s contribution, added Dr. Jagid, will help “move the science forward in order to help everybody else who suffers with these types of injuries.”
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