US launches first commercial brain chip tests

Clinical testing of Stentrode, the first commercial Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) system developed by Synchron, began in the United States. If the trials are successful, the system will be used anywhere, but it is stated that it is primarily designed for paralyzed patients.

The Stentrode system is expected to prove in the first place its safety as well as its ability to work effectively with digital devices without the help of hands. Because these developed Brain-Computer Interface systems can make it easier for the disabled to communicate with the outside world. According to official figures, there are 5 million potential users of such systems in the United States alone.

Synchron, the company that developed the system, is already ahead of Elon Musk’s rival Neuralink, which has more funding but has yet to fully assemble the team. Last year, Neuralink raised $205 million, while Synchron only raised $70 million.

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When implanted, the Stentrode electrodes travel through blood vessels to the brain (Neuralink is implanted directly into the skull) and the system It converts its activity into electrical signals, allowing patients to process text messages, email, and shop online. Relatively simple tasks.

Until now, such projects had only been granted permission for short-term laboratory experiments. But if the new series of tests is successful, the program will be expanded to allow patients to use the brain-computer system over the long term. It seems likely that the Stentrode system will hit the market in the next few years.