BrainCo demonstrated its mind-controlled bionic hand at the HSBC summit, showcasing a non-invasive brain-computer interface technology.
At the HSBC summit, BrainCo showcased its innovative brain-computer interface (BCI), demonstrating a bionic hand that can be controlled by thought. This technology, which captures neural signals non-invasively through the skin, transforms these signals into commands for devices, offering potential benefits for patients managing various medical conditions.
Nix He, partner and senior vice president of BrainCo, emphasized the advantages of their approach, stating, “For serious brain diseases like Parkinson's or for blind individuals, surgical intervention may be necessary. However, there are alternative approaches, such as ours.”
During the event, a live demonstration featured a man using the bionic hand to move his fingers independently by thought alone, marking a significant milestone as the first prosthetic capable of such precise control. The participant even played a brief melody on the piano.
He explained the functionality of the device, saying, “The sensors merely touch the skin and read the neural signals beneath it. Then, the muscles contract to move the hand.” This non-invasive method is viewed as a safer and more patient-friendly option, reducing associated risks and costs.
In contrast, Neuralink, a prominent competitor in the BCI sector, employs an invasive technique that involves implanting ultra-thin threads with electrodes into brain tissue to monitor neuron activity. While this method provides high precision, its signal quality can deteriorate over time.
Beyond prosthetics, BrainCo’s technology is also being explored for enhancing concentration and sleep quality. Founded by Harvard graduate Han Bicheng, the company recently established its Asia-Pacific headquarters in Hong Kong's Cyberport. Additionally, the Chinese regulator approved the first neuroimplant for commercial use earlier this year, marking a significant advance in the field.
