The brain-computer interface (BCI) space has been one to watch for a while and that doesn’t look like it’s changing any time soon.
BCIs could, among other things, offer a pathway to communicate for those with paralysis or chronic diseases that would otherwise prevent it.
Last fall, analysts suggested a potential $400 billion market opportunity for BCIs. Big names are backing some of the biggest competitors, who all hope to be the first to bring the first implantable BCIs to market.
At DeviceTalks West Oct. 15-16, 2025, in Santa Clara, California, multiple BCI companies will have representatives speaking, including Synchron Chief Commercial Officer Kurt Haggstrom, Cognito Therapeutics Chief Medical and Scientific Officer Dr. Ralph Kern and Subsense CEO Tetiana Aleksandrova on a panel discussing the future of brain health. Learn more and register at West.DeviceTalks.com. Here’s a 25% off discount code: MD25OFF
Ahead of that panel, here are the top BCI stories of 2025 so far.
5. Axoft completes first human cases with ultrasoft BCI
After picking up approval to conduct the first-in-human studies at the end of 2024, Axoft announced preliminary results from the first-in-human clinical study of its implantable BCIs.
Cambridge, Massachusetts–based Axoft designed the study to show that its iBCIs, using its novel Fleuron material, can safely decode brain signals. Fleuron, which is 10,000 times softer than the polyimide material used in existing iBCIs, the company says, offering superior biocompatibility while reducing tissue scarring and lead migration over time.
Axoft designed its technology to enable a high-resolution depth neural interface using minimally invasive surgery techniques. The material also exhibits long-term signal stability, as it has been used to track the electrical activity of single neurons for over a year in animal models. Additionally, Axoft touts a high density of sensors and stimulators, maximizing the information exchanged between the brain and electronics.
Axoft also announced new research demonstrating the benefits of the Fleuron material. Findings showed how it can improve iBCI bandwidth, stability, and access to deep brain regions in clinical settings.
4. InBrain Neuroelectronics reports positive interim results for BCI tech
Graphene, a two-dimensional material made of a lattice of carbon atoms, is stronger than steel and thinner than a human hair, according to InBrain Neuroelectronics. It utilizes a combination of electrical and mechanical properties.
By using this material, InBrain says its neural platform enables ultra-high signal resolution, using machine learning software to decode therapy-specific biomarkers. It delivers highly focused, adaptive neuroelectronic therapy that re-balances pathological neural networks.
The company’s technology integrates intelligent computing and graphene-based materials to decode and modulate real-time brain activity. Future applications of the BCI technology could include neuromodulation for Parkinson’s, stroke rehabilitation, epilepsy and potentially neuropsychiatric disorders.
Results from an interim analysis shared in July outlined the safety and functional performance of graphene-based electrodes when used during surgery for the resection of brain tumors.
3. Synchron announces BCI integration with Apple tech
In May, Apple unveiled its BCI Human Interface Device (BCI HID) profile, enabling the recognition of neural interfaces as a native input category, coming to Apple devices. With this launch, Synchron became the first BCI maker to achieve native integration with this new Apple protocol.
Users implanted with Synchron’s BCI can control an iPhone, iPad and Apple Vision Pro directly with their thoughts. It requires no physical movement or voice commands.
This marks the latest development between the two companies, as last year Synchron shared that it paired its Stentrode BCI with the Apple Vision Pro. The latest advancement enables hands-free, voice-free digital access for individuals with motor impairment, such as ALS, stroke or spinal cord injury.
Synchron says its BCI can seamlessly integrate with Apple’s built-in accessibility features, including Switch Control. This gives users an intuitive way to use their devices, laying a foundation for a new generation of cognitive input technologies.
2. Paradromics expects to launch BCI study this year after appointing principal investigators
Paradromics in March began taking the steps toward a clinical study of its Connexus BCI, selecting “recognized leaders in clinical BCI technology” as investigators.
The company expects to launch a trial of its Connexus BCI system in late 2025, following the receipt of regulatory approval. Connexus has the potential to help patients communicate after losing the ability to speak and control computer devices. It translates recorded brain signals into actionable health data.
Paradromics reported the first-in-human Connexus procedure in June.
Connexus has the potential to help patients communicate after losing the ability to speak and control computer devices. It translates recorded brain signals into actionable health data.
Initially, the Austin, Texas–based company’s focus centers around restoring independent communication through digital devices for individuals living with spinal cord injuries, stroke, or ALS, a motor neuron disease.
1. OpenAI is reportedly backing new BCI venture Merge Labs
A report in August suggested that — much like Elon Musk and Neuralink, another leading player in the BCI space — a big figure in the tech space was registering interest in BCIs.
The Financial Times said that Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, was planning to have the company’s venture arm invest in new brain-computer interface (BCI) venture Merge Labs.
According to the report, OpenAI — the company behind ChatGPT — seeks to provide financial backing to Merge Labs as it raises funds. The report cites three people with knowledge of the situation, saying that Merge Labs aims to raise $250 million from OpenAI and others. Talks remain at an early stage, FT said, and Altman reportedly doesn’t plan to invest himself.
The report says Altman intends to help launch the Merge Labs project with Alex Blania. Altman previously backed World, Blania’s eyeball-scanning ID venture.
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