China approves the first brain implant for commercial use while Elon Musk plans to start high-volume production of the trialled Neuralink devices this year.
China has approved its first brain implant designed to help people with paralysis regain some movement in their hands, marking the world's first commercial authorisation for such a device.
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The device was developed by the Chinese company Neuracle Medical Technology and uses a brain-computer interface (BCI).
BCIs connect a person's nervous system to devices capable of interpreting their brain activity, allowing them to act, such as using a computer or moving a prosthetic hand, by the sheer force of their thought.
Neuracle’s system is aimed at people who have paralysis caused by serious injuries to the spinal cord in the neck. These injuries can prevent the brain’s signals from reaching the arms and hands.
The system works by detecting brain signals linked to the intention to move the hand. Those signals are then translated by software and sent to a robotic glove worn by the patient. The glove uses air-powered movement to help the hand open and close, allowing the user to grasp objects, according to CGTN.
Not all patients are eligible to use the device. According to the Chinese state media, it is intended for adults between the ages of 18 and 60 who have had paralysis for more than a year and whose condition has remained stable for at least six months.
The device is designed for people who cannot grip objects with their hands but still retain some movement in their upper arms.
China has been increasing its investment in brain-computer interface technology in recent years. The country has recently included BCI technology as a national strategic priority and plans to feature it in the country’s upcoming economic planning as a potential driver of future growth, according to the South China Morning Post.
The development comes as companies around the world race to bring similar technologies to market.
Last year, another brain-computer interface developed by the Chinese company Shanghai NeuroXess drew international attention after a 28-year-old man who had been paralysed for eight years following a severe spinal cord injury was able to control digital devices using his thoughts five days after receiving the implant in China.
Meanwhile, Elon Musk said recently in an X post that his brain implant company Neuralink, which started human trials in 2024, will start "high-volume production" of BCI devices in 2026.
Neuralink said in September last year that 12 people worldwide with severe paralysis have received the brain implants and were using them to control digital and physical tools through thought.
