China’s Brain Chip Race: Beinao No.1 Poised to Overtake Neuralink

Accelerating Human Trials

The Beijing-based Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR) and NeuCyber NeuroTech have implanted their brain chip, Beinao No.1, into three patients.
Plans are in place to reach 13 patients by the end of the year.
A larger clinical trial involving 50 patients is expected in 2025, pending regulatory approval.
If successful, this would make Beinao No.1 the most widely tested brain-computer interface (BCI) in the world.

Semi-Invasive vs. Fully Invasive Chips

Beinao No.1 is a semi-invasive brain chip that rests on the surface of the brain.
Neuralink’s approach is fully invasive, implanting the chip deeper for stronger signal quality.
Semi-invasive chips reduce the risk of brain tissue damage but may sacrifice some signal clarity.

Real-World Applications

Patients with paralysis have used Beinao No.1 to control a robotic arm and send thoughts to a computer screen.
These demonstrations mirror recent advancements by Neuralink, which enabled a patient to control a cursor.

Competing with U.S. Firms

Synchron, backed by Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, currently leads in patient numbers with 10 implanted users.
Synchron is also integrating Nvidia’s AI into its BCI systems.
CIBR and NeuCyber are seeking long-term investors willing to prioritize innovation over immediate profit.

Future Plans: Beinao No.2 and Wireless Tech

Beinao No.2, a fully invasive chip, was successfully tested on a monkey.
A wireless version, similar to Neuralink’s technology, is in development.
Human trials for Beinao No.2 are expected within 12 to 18 months.

China’s rapid advancements in neurotechnology highlight its ambition to compete in the global BCI industry, though regulatory and ethical challenges remain key factors in its success.

“China’s Brain Chip Race: Beinao No.1 Poised to Overtake Neuralink” “China’s Brain Chip Race: Beinao No.1 Poised to Overtake Neuralink”