A collaboration between a Chinese research institute and a tech company announced on Monday its plans to implant a brain chip into 13 individuals by the end of this year. This development could potentially surpass Elon Musk’s Neuralink in gathering patient data. The Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR) and NeuCyber NeuroTech, based in Beijing, have already placed the Beinao No.1 brain chip, a semi-invasive wireless device, into three patients in the past month, with 10 more scheduled for this year. According to Luo Minmin, director of CIBR and chief scientist at NeuCyber, the state-owned company has ambitions for a larger trial next year with around 50 patients, pending regulatory approval.
The acceleration of human trials by CIBR and NeuCyber could establish Beinao No.1 as the brain chip with the highest number of patients globally, showcasing China’s commitment to catching up with leading foreign brain-computer interface (BCI) developers. In comparison, U.S.-based BCI company Synchron, backed by billionaires Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, currently leads in terms of human trials with 10 patients.
While Neuralink focuses on wireless brain chips inserted inside the brain to enhance signal quality, competitors like CIBR and NeuCyber are working on semi-invasive chips or surface-placed BCI systems to minimize the risk of brain tissue damage. Videos released by state media recently demonstrated patients using the Beinao No.1 brain chip to control a robotic arm and even communicate thoughts onto a computer screen, showcasing promising results.
Luo mentioned that a wireless version of Beinao No.2, resembling Neuralink’s product, was in development and expected to undergo human testing within the next 12 to 18 months. As Synchron partners with Nvidia to integrate AI technology into their BCI systems, CIBR and NeuCyber are actively seeking investors and emphasizing the importance of forward-thinking collaboration for long-term benefits. The focus remains on aiding patients with paralysis, and Beinao’s development is not associated with the Chinese military.
NeuCyber, owned by the Zhongguancun Development Corporation, a significant revenue generator in China, is looking ahead to further advancements in BCI technology.
(Reporting by Eduardo Baptista; Editing by Kate Mayberry)
