China’s Beinao No.1 Brain Chip to begin human trials, challenging Neuralink in BCI race

A collaboration between the Beijing-based Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR) and tech company NeuCyber NeuroTech announced plans to implant its brain chip, Beinao No.1, into 13 patients by the end of the year. This initiative aims to gather patient data, potentially surpassing Elon Musk's Neuralink in the race for advancements in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs).

In the past month, CIBR and NeuCyber successfully implanted the semi-invasive wireless Beinao No.1 chip into three patients, with ten more scheduled for this year. Luo Minmin, director of CIBR and chief scientist at NeuCyber, indicated that they plan to conduct formal clinical trials next year involving around 50 patients, pending regulatory approval.

This acceleration in human trials positions Beinao No.1 to become the brain chip with the highest patient count globally, highlighting China's drive to catch up with leading BCI developers. Currently, U.S.-based company Synchron leads with 10 patients in human trials, while Neuralink has three.

While Neuralink focuses on wireless chips inserted inside the brain to optimize signal quality, CIBR and NeuCyber's semi-invasive approach places chips on the brain's surface, reducing the risk of tissue damage and complications. The Beinao No.1 chip has already demonstrated capabilities, such as controlling a robotic arm to perform tasks like pouring water.

Following the announcement of successful human trials, CIBR and NeuCyber have received numerous requests for assistance. Last year, they had not yet initiated human trials, instead testing an invasive chip, Beinao No.2, on a monkey, which was able to control a robotic arm.

Luo mentioned that a wireless version of Beinao No.2, similar to Neuralink's product, is in development and could be tested on humans within the next 12 to 18 months. He also noted that while CIBR and NeuCyber are seeking investors, potential partners should be forward-looking and not solely focused on quick profits, emphasizing that the BCI market currently offers limited short-term sales opportunities.

NeuCyber, owned by the Zhongguancun Development Corporation, generated over 9 billion yuan ($1.24 billion) in revenue in 2023, according to corporate records. Luo clarified that Beinao has no military ties and is dedicated to assisting patients with various types of paralysis.