China's BrainCo bets on wearable brain tech over skull implants

Chinese technology company BrainCo is positioning itself in the brain-computer interface (BCI) market with a focus on wearable technology, diverging from approaches like Elon Musk's Neuralink, which involve invasive implants.

Founded in 2015 and emerging from Harvard Innovation Labs, BrainCo is developing non-invasive BCI devices. These technologies aim to translate brain signals into commands that control external devices, allowing users to operate technology with their thoughts.

Unlike companies pursuing surgically implanted devices, BrainCo believes many applications can be addressed with non-invasive methods that are easier for users to adopt, less costly, and carry lower risk. The company has developed FDA-approved bionic hands for amputees that interpret neural and muscular signals for movement, as well as a wearable sleep aid.

BrainCo has secured significant funding, raising approximately 2 billion yuan ($280 million USD). Its technology relies on proprietary dry electrode sensors and AI algorithms to capture and decode subtle brain signals from outside the skull.

The company outlines a phased roadmap: starting with applications for severely impaired individuals, expanding into medical treatments for conditions like ADHD and depression, and eventually targeting the consumer electronics market. BrainCo also plans to license its BCI platform to other manufacturers.