China - September 06, 2024

Storyline:
China on verge of brain-computer interface commercialization

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It might seem like something out of a sci-fi film; using your mind to control an object.

But scientists in China are working to expedite the development of brain-computer interfaces that can do just that, which are fast becoming game changers in the healthcare, gaming and accessibility sectors.

BCIs are established through wearable or internally placed technology that connects the participants brain to an electrical or mechanical device allowing them to control it with their thoughts.

In one case study in northern China's Tianjin Municipality, a patient who lost the ability to grip items in his left hand is trying out a BCI-controlled robotic finger.

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Mr. Qiao, participant, clinical research of "Lingxi Finger":

"It feels like it's my sixth finger, just a thought in my mind and it moves."

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Meanwhile in Beijing, researchers from Tsinghua University are using a semi-invasive BCI to help a patient control a motorized wheelchair after he lost mobility in a car accident.

Semi-invasive BCIs entail placing the technology on the surface of the brain, while truly invasive BCIs implant electrodes directly into a person's brain tissue. Both methods provide more precise readings than wearable BCIs.

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Hong Bo, Professor, Tsinghua University School of Medicine:

"The effectiveness of [our brain-computer interface] has been proven. Most importantly, he can now control the cursor on his computer screen using his brain signals. Just now, we demonstrated that he can control the wheelchair with his mind, confirming the success of brain-computer interface signal control."

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Going forward, researchers say they plan to further expand their clinical trials, with the goal of swiftly commercializing their BCI technology for wider public use.

[Restrictions : No access Chinese mainland]