Some of the funds have been directed towards the development of BCIs (Brain-Computer Interfaces) — systems that decode brain signals and convert them into commands for external devices. Research on this began in the 1970s, but the technology has not yet become widely accessible. In this article, we discuss the issue of biocompatibility, who is close to creating working neuroimplants, and who will benefit from them.
What Hinders Widespread Use of Neuroimplants?
Neuroimplants can be classified based on their level of invasiveness, i.e., the degree of penetration through the body’s natural external barriers:
- Non-invasive or minimally invasive: These methods almost do not require surgical intervention. An example is electroencephalography, which places electrodes on the surface of the head to study brain activity.
- Invasive: These methods require surgical penetration into the body, such as when installing brain implants.
The primary limitation of invasive methods is the problem of biocompatibility. Due to the immune system’s protective response, the brain rejects the implanted electrodes, reducing the quality of the signal and causing nerve tissue around the implantation site to die. 
If scientists solve the biocompatibility issue, they will be able to collect data directly from the brain and influence it. This could lead to treatments for epilepsy, dementia, and other brain-related diseases, as well as improved control over prosthetics and smart devices. The technology generally has enormous potential, but development challenges prevent the full realization of existing solutions.
Neuralink
One of the most well-known projects in the BCI field is Elon Musk’s Neuralink. The company is developing a microchip that will connect to the brain’s cortex using 1,500 ultra-thin electrodes. The plan is for robots to carry out the implant surgeries, reducing the need for neurosurgeons.
A coin-sized receiver capsule will be placed behind the ear, finally allowing users to control any device with brain impulses. The company has conducted initial animal trials, which Musk claims were successful.
Neuralink’s developments aim to help individuals with neurological diseases control hormones and anxiety, and enhance brain efficiency.
Blackrock Neurotech
This company is developing a system to combat paralysis and neurological disorders. Its primary device, the “Utah Array,” is an implantable electrode that allows users to control computers and prosthetics. In addition to creating the electrode, Blackrock Neurotech has invested in developing AI software and spatial computing.
In 2024, cryptocurrency company Tether invested $200 million in Blackrock Neurotech and acquired a controlling stake. This investment will help the company scale its technologies for rehabilitating paralyzed individuals.
Precision Neuroscience
Founded in 2021 by Neuralink co-founder Michael Mager, Precision Neuroscience’s flagship system, the Layer 7 Cortical Interface, consists of an electrode grid resembling tape. Developers claim this form fits the brain’s surface and does not damage soft tissues during implantation.
The system was tested on three patients who had previously had brain tumors removed. If the trials go as planned, patients with severe diseases will be able to partially regain the ability to communicate and perform basic tasks on computers.
Neuroimplants: What Happens If We Lower the Invasiveness?
Synchron
In cardiology, stents are implanted to treat coronary artery disease. Developers at Synchron have created similar devices to function as neuroimplants. Electrodes are inserted into major veins along the brain’s walls without disrupting blood flow. This method avoids open brain surgery and resolves the biocompatibility issue. However, it suffers from low signal quality.
Synchron’s goal is to enable individuals with limited hand mobility to control electronic devices through “thought power.” If the method is further refined, it could become one of the most feasible BCI technologies in the near future.
Inbrain
The main distinction of Inbrain Neuroelectronics is its use of graphene in chip production. The shift away from metal is due to graphene’s properties: it allows all electrons to interact with each other, reducing signal quality. Graphene is a highly conductive carbon material, which makes it more stable for stimulation impulses. According to the developers, these chips will be smaller than platinum ones, allowing for more electrodes to be connected. Currently, the technology is being tested on large animals.
New Methods of Neuron Stimulation
Forest Neurotech and Butterfly Network
This company is developing a device to visualize the brain and stimulate brain activity using ultrasound. The method will allow for highly precise targeting of neurons, though it is still invasive.
A stimulator soon will be implanted under the skull, as this is the only way to prevent bone from obstructing sound passage. If the development passes clinical trials, it could open up new opportunities for research in treating psychiatric and cognitive disorders.
LivaNova
The company is developing technology to treat resistant depression and epilepsy. A small device will be implanted near the chest and connected to the vagus nerve in the neck. This finally will deliver weak impulses to the brain to prevent or stop seizures.
Other Promising Areas: Prosthetics
Science Corporation
Prima, a development by Max Hodak from Science Corporation (a former Neuralink colleague), is a system consisting of a projection device and a small implant under the retina that sends signals to the device and stimulates the retina.
In October 2024, the company completed clinical trials on 38 patients, showing significant improvements in visual acuity.
BrainPort
This technology restores vision through electrical stimulation of the tongue. It may sound strange, but the tongue has many receptors and nerve endings through which different information can be transmitted to the brain. A few electrodes on the tongue are enough for a person to begin distinguishing large objects. The technology has also shown effectiveness in restoring walking ability after a stroke.
In Russia, neurophysiologist and doctor of sciences Yuri Petrovich Danilov is working on this method. In the early 2000s, he was invited to develop the technology in the US at Wicab Inc. He later returned to Russia and founded his own company, RehaLine, which uses BrainPort to treat cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, and other cognitive disorders.
The Bottom Line
The BCI field requires billions of dollars in investment — and it’s getting them. The impact of successfully applied neuroimplants could dramatically change medicine and human capabilities. The key challenge is to solve the biocompatibility issue, making the technology safe even during research stages. While this has not yet been achieved, the rapid pace of development suggests new breakthroughs within the next few years.
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