Neuralink VOICE Trial Patient's Thought-to-Speech Video Goes Viral with 40M Views
Summary
An ALS patient named Kenneth, implanted with Neuralink's N1 device under the VOICE trial, demonstrated thought-to-speech capabilities in a video that amassed nearly 40 million views on X.
A video of Kenneth, an ALS patient implanted with Neuralink’s N1 brain-computer interface, demonstrating thought-to-speech capabilities has gone viral on X, amassing 39.9 million views since it was posted on March 24, 2026.
The VOICE Trial
Kenneth is a participant in Neuralink’s VOICE trial — a feasibility study focused on restoring communication for individuals who have lost the ability to speak due to conditions like ALS, brainstem stroke, or spinal cord injury.
In the video, Kenneth thinks words and they are decoded into audible speech in real time. The system is targeting 140 words per minute, which approaches natural conversation speed (average English speakers produce 150–160 words per minute).
Current Clinical Status
As of early 2026, Neuralink has expanded significantly beyond its initial U.S. trials:
- 21+ participants enrolled globally across multiple studies
- PRIME study: Motor cortex implants for cursor control and digital interaction
- VOICE trial: Speech restoration (Kenneth is the first public participant)
- Blindsight: Vision restoration trial planned for 2026, with FDA Breakthrough Device Designation already granted
- CAN-PRIME: First international trial in Canada
- UAE-PRIME: Trial in Abu Dhabi
- GB-PRIME: UK trial at UCL Hospitals and Newcastle Hospitals
Technical Upgrades
Neuralink is preparing major hardware improvements:
- 3,000+ electrode upgrade: Next-generation devices will dramatically increase channel count
- Through-dura insertion: A new surgical technique that inserts electrodes through the dura mater rather than piercing it, potentially improving stability
- Automated surgery: Musk announced plans for “almost entirely automated” surgical systems in 2026
Competitive Landscape
Neuralink isn’t alone in the BCI race. Key competitors include:
| Company | Approach | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Synchron | Endovascular (stent via jugular vein) | No open-brain surgery |
| Precision Neuroscience | Layer 7 array via slit craniotomy | Minimally invasive, 1,024 electrodes |
| Paradromics | Connexus system | High channel count for speech |
| Neuracle (China) | NEO device | First commercially approved BCI (March 2026) |
China’s Neuracle NEO became the world’s first commercially approved brain-computer interface in March 2026, adding competitive pressure.
Investment and Valuation
Neuralink raised $650 million in Series E funding in June 2025 at a $9 billion valuation — the largest BCI funding round ever. Investors include ARK Invest, Sequoia Capital, and Founders Fund. The company reportedly has a $1 billion revenue target by 2031 and aims for 20,000 implants per year.
“The long-term aspiration with Neuralink is to achieve a symbiosis with artificial intelligence.” — Elon Musk
