China's regulator has approved the country's first brain implant for commercial use. This invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) device helps patients with paralysis partially regain control over their hand movements, according to Bloomberg.

The National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) granted permission for the product to enter the market. The technology was developed by Shanghai-based Neuracle Technology, which specializes in neurointerfaces.

The startup's BCI system has been tested on 36 patients and includes:

  • brain cortex sensors;
  • a robotic glove;
  • surgical tools;
  • a neural signal decoding algorithm;
  • software for testing and clinical use.

This technology is designed for adult patients with partial paralysis due to spinal cord injuries. During trials, the implant helped participants regain the ability to grasp and hold objects.

However, the product is only applicable to individuals who retain some functionality in the upper part of their arm. This limitation arises from fewer channels and restricted signal recognition capabilities compared to more advanced competitors.

The approval of Neuracle's product has been described by Bloomberg as a significant milestone for the rapidly evolving neurointerface market. Chinese startups are eager to outpace Western companies in commercializing this technology, including Elon Musk's Neuralink, Synchron, Paradromics, and Merge Labs.

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Experts noted that the Chinese regulator's decision could accelerate the development of similar solutions in the market.

Beijing views neurointerfaces as a promising area of high technology, providing strong government support to startups and aiming to establish a full-fledged industry in the coming years. Authorities have promised to simplify regulatory checks and introduce a cost-reimbursement mechanism for product development to facilitate market entry.

In February, Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino stated that with the rapid advancement of AI, people will need to enhance their intelligence through brain implants.