Chinese brain implants lag behind American Neuralink by almost three years

China and the United States in a race for neurointerfaces: what steps are both countries taking

China and the United States Development stage Invasive Beinao‑2 implant is undergoing animal testing. The first Beinao‑1 prototype has already been implanted in seven patients. Neuralink successfully implanted brain devices in 21 patients participating in clinical trials. Technological advantages Uses thin electrodes but does not yet have a specialized robot for surgery. Employs its own robotic tool, which inserts electrodes faster and more accurately than the human hand. Lag assessment NeuCyber claims its technology is three years behind Neuralink. Does not publicly disclose lag estimate. Clinical trial plans Translating from laboratory to practice will require at least two years after completing animal studies. First human tests are already underway, and commercial deployment could begin in a few months. Product goals Primarily restoring wrist mobility in patients with spinal cord injuries and other specific conditions. A broader range of applications is expected, including device control by thought.

Key facts
1. Chinese developments

- NeuCyber Neurotech startup (Beinao‑2) – an invasive neurointerface with thin electrodes inserted into the cerebral cortex. It is currently in full-scale animal testing.
- The first Beinao‑1 prototype has already been implanted in seven volunteers. They required up to six months of adaptation to controlling a computer cursor by thought. This year, the plan is to increase participants to 50 people, which could allow the Chinese implant to surpass Neuralink in mass adoption.

2. Comparison with Neuralink

- Neuralink successfully implanted devices in 21 patients this January. The company uses a specially designed robot for precise and rapid electrode insertion.
- NeuCyber believes its technology lags by about three years and views Neuralink as the benchmark of leadership.

3. Clinical trials in China

- China is the second country after the United States where brain implant clinical trials are permitted. It has recently become the first country to allow commercial use of such devices.
- However, Chinese implants are currently focused only on restoring hand mobility in patients with spinal cord injuries and other limited conditions.

4. State support

- NeuCyber received $29 million in subsidies from the Chinese state budget, confirming government interest in developing neurointerfaces.

What to expect next?
- If Beinao‑1’s expansion plans are fulfilled, the Chinese implant could become more affordable and widespread than Neuralink.
- Commercial deployment of NeuCyber in the domestic market is expected about three years later, provided the schedule is met.
- In the long term, the company intends to focus on restoring motor functions in spinal cord injury patients.

Thus, China and the United States continue to compete in creating neurointerfaces, but each has its own strengths and strategic priorities.