China Approves the First Brain Chips for Sale–and Plans to Dominate the Industry

6 hours ago

China becomes the first nation to approve a commercially available brain chip (NEO) for treating paralysis.
NEO, developed by Neuracle Medical Technology, translates thoughts into robotic hand movements for paralyzed individuals.
The implant, about the size of a coin, is embedded in the skull with electrodes placed on the brain's movement-processing area.
After 18 months of testing, it was authorized for people aged 19-60 with paralysis from neck/spinal cord injuries.
The device allows users to perform basic tasks (e.g., picking up objects) via a mechanical glove controlled by thought.
32 test subjects reported no adverse side effects.
China aims to dominate the brain-computer interface (BCI) industry, with a 5-year plan outlining 17 steps for research and development.
The policy promotes non-invasive BCI devices (e.g., glasses, hearing aids) and testing in high-risk sectors like nuclear energy and mining.
Brain implants currently focus on restoring autonomy for disabled individuals, with experimental tech enabling communication and vision restoration.
Neo's commercial approval marks a new phase for the BCI industry.

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