Elon Musk announced that his company, Neuralink, will commence “high-volume production” of its brain-computer interface devices and transition to a fully automated surgical procedure by 2026. In a post on the social media platform X, Musk outlined the company’s vision for its brain implants, which are designed to assist individuals with conditions like spinal cord injuries by facilitating direct interaction with computers.
Neuralink’s journey began with human trials in 2024 after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had initially rejected its application in 2022 due to safety concerns. Since then, the company has made significant strides, with its first patient successfully demonstrating the ability to perform tasks such as playing video games, browsing the internet, and moving a cursor on a laptop using the implant.
Transition to Automated Surgery
In its upcoming production phase, Neuralink plans to utilize a streamlined surgical method where device threads will be inserted through the dura mater without the need for its removal. This advancement is expected to make the implantation process less invasive and more efficient. By September, Neuralink reported that twelve individuals worldwide with severe paralysis had received the implants, enabling them to control digital and physical tools solely through thought.
Neuralink’s plans for mass production are part of a larger array of projects outlined by Musk, encompassing various sectors, including space exploration and cognitive technology. In June, the company secured $650 million in a funding round, further solidifying its financial backing for these ambitious initiatives.
Broader Vision for 2026
Musk’s other ventures also aim for significant milestones in 2026. SpaceX is preparing to launch its upgraded Starship V3 spacecraft, featuring the new Raptor V3 engine, which will conduct propellant transfer tests in orbit. This capability could be vital for future long-distance missions to the Moon and Mars. Additionally, SpaceX plans to deploy its Starlink V3 satellites, enhancing internet connectivity across the globe.
Neuralink is also set to introduce the Blindsight implant, which aims to restore vision for individuals who are completely blind. The first patient trial for this innovative device is scheduled for 2026. The brain-computer interface will utilize ultra-fine threads that stimulate the visual cortex, creating perceptions of light and shapes.
In the realm of urban transportation, Musk’s Boring Company is slated to open the initial section of the Nashville Loop in spring 2026. This underground transit system, designed for electric vehicles, will connect key locations in Nashville, including downtown and the international airport, cutting travel time to approximately eight minutes.
Tesla is also gearing up for a significant ramp-up in production in 2026. The company is expected to begin manufacturing its Cybercab in April, alongside mass production of the Tesla Semi and Optimus Gen 3 humanoid robots. Furthermore, Tesla plans to launch its Full Self-Driving technology in an unsupervised mode and expand its energy storage capabilities with new Megapack 3 and Megablock systems.
In the field of artificial intelligence, Musk’s startup xAI is enhancing its Colossus supercomputer cluster in Memphis, Tennessee, aiming to increase its training capacity to nearly two gigawatts. Separately, the social media platform X, owned by Musk, is contemplating higher creator payouts, potentially exceeding those offered by YouTube, as part of its strategy to retain original content.
Together, these initiatives illustrate Musk’s ambition to advance multiple technological fronts in 2026, positioning it as a pivotal year for his various enterprises.
