China has moved ahead of Elon Musk‘s ‘Jesus-level technology’ Neuralink in the race to commercialise brain-computer interface technology, approving what is being described as the world’s first commercially available brain chip after successful clinical trials.The coin-sized implant, called NEO, has become the first surgically implanted brain-computer interface (BCI) device to clear clinical testing for commercial use, according to the New York Times report.Developed by researchers at Beijing’s Tsinghua University and Shanghai-based Neuracle Technology, the device is expected to enter mass production for China’s state-run healthcare system.The first version of NEO is aimed at helping patients with spinal cord injuries and paralysis regain control over parts of their nervous system. But researchers, technology companies and investors see brain-computer interfaces as the beginning of a much larger shift in how humans interact with machines.The development comes as Musk’s Neuralink continues human trials in the United States but is yet to receive broad regulatory approval for commercial use.
The ‘Jesus-level technology’
Brain-computer interfaces allow signals generated by the brain to be converted into digital commands that can control computers, devices or prosthetics. Musk has repeatedly promoted the technology’s potential to transform lives. Speaking via video link at an event in Israel this week, Musk argued that his company, Neuralink, does not receive enough recognition for its achievements.“Restoring control of people who are tetraplegics and restoring sight, I think, are pretty big deals,” Musk said. “They’re sort of what I might call Jesus-level technologies,” he added.Neuralink has said its implants could eventually allow users to type, move a computer cursor and operate devices using only their thoughts.Supporters of the technology envision an even more ambitious future, where people could communicate digitally through thoughts or interact with machines without physical input.
How China’s NEO differs from Neuralink
One reason analysts believe China has moved ahead more quickly is the design of the NEO implant. Unlike Neuralink’s N1 device, which requires electrodes to penetrate the brain’s cerebral cortex, NEO is designed to sit between the skull and the brain.Eight sensors are placed against the dura mater, the brain’s protective outer membrane reducing the invasiveness of the procedure. The implant captures brain signals and sends them to nearby computers, where they are translated into digital commands.According to reports, 36 patients have already tested the device with positive results. Researchers believe the less-invasive approach may help reduce some of the medical risks traditionally associated with brain implants, the Post reported.Experts say brain-computer interfaces could improve the lives of millions of people suffering from neurological disorders, particularly those affecting movement and speech. Potential applications extend beyond paralysis and spinal injuries to conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, stroke and depression.However, the technology has also raised concerns about privacy, security and safety. Griffith University cybersecurity expert Dr David Tuffley said the devices offer enormous potential but also create new risks.“Brain implants may sound dystopian, but they are a promising part of neuroscience research,” he said. At the same time, he warned that the devices could “theoretically allow hackers to access sensitive neural data, such as patients’ thoughts and memories.”“Hacking may also enable them to impair a patient’s cognitive functions such as the ability to concentrate, or even manipulate motor signals to affect how well they move,” he said.“That’s a scary prospect, especially if these devices become more common,” he added. Despite rapid progress, researchers also caution that brain implants still face significant biological hurdles.Neuralink’s N1 implant is currently being tested in nine patients. One participant, Audrey Crews, recently described the impact the technology has already had on her life.“I tried writing my name for the first time in 20 years. I’m working on it,” she wrote on X. “It’s humbling to know my journey is helping Neuralink refine this technology, which could one day let millions control devices with their minds,” she added.
