BEIJING, March 8 (GeokHub) — Brain-computer interface (BCI) technology could begin reaching practical public use in China within the next three to five years as research advances and products mature, according to a leading Chinese scientist.
The technology allows direct communication between the human brain and computers, enabling people to control devices using neural signals.
China has identified BCIs as one of its priority future industries in its latest national five-year development plan, placing the technology alongside strategic sectors such as quantum computing, advanced artificial intelligence, next-generation communications and nuclear fusion.
Rapid development expected
Yao Dezhong, director of the Sichuan Institute of Brain Science, said the industry still needs time to develop before widespread adoption becomes possible.
He said improvements in hardware, clinical testing and regulatory support are expected to gradually push BCI products toward real-world applications within several years.
China released a national BCI development roadmap last year that aims to achieve major technological breakthroughs by 2027 and create several globally competitive companies by 2030.
Expanding clinical trials
China has become the second country to conduct human trials involving invasive brain-computer interfaces, with more than ten trials currently underway.
Researchers plan to recruit more than 50 patients nationwide this year as the country expands testing.
Recent trials have enabled patients with paralysis or limb loss to regain limited movement, operate robotic limbs or control smart wheelchairs through brain signals.
Several pilot regions have already included some BCI-based medical treatments in public health insurance programs.
Growing market potential
Industry analysts estimate China’s domestic BCI market could reach about 5.58 billion yuan (around $809 million) by 2027.
Experts say China’s large population, strong engineering talent pool and expanding medical research infrastructure could accelerate the development of the technology.
However, scientists note that the path from laboratory experiments to clinical treatment remains complex and time-consuming.
Many hospitals across the country have launched dedicated BCI research centers to speed up progress.
Global race for brain technology
The development of brain-computer interfaces has become a competitive global technology race.
U.S. startups are also pushing forward with experimental brain implants designed to restore movement and communication abilities for people with severe neurological conditions.
While some companies focus on highly invasive implants that connect directly to brain tissue, Chinese researchers are developing a range of approaches including invasive, semi-invasive and non-invasive systems aimed at reducing surgical risks.
Researchers say these different approaches could expand the range of medical and technological applications in the future.
