Foreign Media: China's Brain-Computer Interface Technology is Expected to Enter the Public Practical Stage in 3 to 5 Years
Zhang Dezhong, a leading expert in the field of brain-computer interface (BCI) in China and director of the Sichuan Institute of Brain Sciences, stated that with the gradual maturation of related products, BCI technology is expected to enter the stage of practical application by the public within 3 to 5 years.
In terms of policy, China's latest five-year plan has listed brain-computer interface as a core strategic emerging industry, alongside quantum computing, embodied AI, 6G, and nuclear fusion. The national BCI development strategy aims to achieve major technological breakthroughs by 2027 and cultivate 2 to 3 world-class enterprises by 2030. The domestic market size is expected to reach 5.58 billion yuan (about 809 million U.S. dollars) by 2027.
In terms of clinical progress, China has become the second country in the world to conduct invasive BCI human trials, with more than 10 active trials currently ongoing, matching the number in the United States. This year, it plans to recruit more than 50 patients nationwide. Recent trials have helped paralyzed patients and amputees regain partial motor functions. Some BCI therapies have already been included in medical insurance in pilot provinces.
Different from Neuralink, which focuses on invasive chips, China is simultaneously advancing three types of technical routes: invasive, semi-invasive, and non-invasive. Zhang Dezhong said that Musk's technical direction "can basically be realized domestically," and China has obvious advantages in population size, patient demand, industrial chain cost, and science and engineering talent.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1859012189507587/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.