Tech Giant Apple Working on Mind-Technology Link-Up
In the rapidly growing brain-computer interface (BCI) industry, Synchron's Stentrode stands out as a minimally invasive solution for real-world medical and assistive applications. Since 2019, Synchron has successfully implanted the Stentrode in ten individuals[1].
The Stentrode works by using its electrodes to read brain signals and translate them into on-screen navigation and icon selection. This innovative technology enables people with profound physical impairments to control Apple devices, such as Macs and iPads, with an external adaptive device like a joystick or switch (or now, the Stentrode)[1][2].
Synchron's Stentrode offers native compatibility with Apple operating systems, including iPadOS and iOS 26, through the Brain-Computer Interface Human Interface Device (BCI HID) protocol[1]. This seamless integration allows for real-time thought control of Apple devices, integrated with Apple's built-in Switch Control accessibility feature. Users can navigate, open apps, and compose messages with thought alone[1].
In comparison, Elon Musk's Neuralink's N1 chip is a more invasive system requiring open-brain surgery to implant electrodes directly into brain tissue. While Neuralink's device aims to capture and transmit neural signals at potentially higher data bandwidth and speed, it currently involves greater surgical risk and complexity[2].
Navigation using the Stentrode is slower than typical computer or smartphone interaction due to its inability to mimic cursor movement or touchscreen use with fingers. However, Synchron's Stentrode prioritizes usability and safety with its minimally invasive delivery[2].
Dr. Tom Oxley, CEO and co-founder of Synchron, praised Apple in a press release for pioneering a new interface paradigm, recognising brain signals as a native input for Apple devices[1]. The development project involves partnership with Synchron, a privately held company backed by Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates[1].
These advancements in BCI technology open up new possibilities for people living with paralysis and beyond[1]. Mark Jackson, a Pittsburgh resident with ALS, tested the Stentrode with an Apple Vision Pro. Jackson was virtually transported to Switzerland and experienced feeling his legs shake while looking over an alpine peak[1].
The latest BCI developments are in anticipation of full FDA approval for the implants, not expected for several more years[1]. As the field of BCIs continues to evolve, Synchron's Stentrode offers a less invasive, practical, and accessible option for real-world applications today.
| Feature | Synchron Stentrode | Neuralink N1 | |---------------------------|-------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------| | Implantation method | Minimally invasive via blood vessel (jugular vein) | Open-brain surgery | | Signal source | Motor cortex signals captured intravascularly | Direct brain tissue electrode signals | | Data communication | Wireless to decoder → native Apple BCI HID | Wireless, experimental protocols | | Apple device integration | Native, via Apple BCI HID protocol in iOS 26 | Not demonstrated with Apple devices | | Speed & data capture | Real-time motor intention signals for UI control, practical for accessibility | Potentially higher bandwidth, in development | | Use case maturity | FDA-approved trials, active human use | Early human trials, experimental |
[1] Synchron. (2022). Synchron's Stentrode: A Less Invasive BCI for Apple Device Control. Retrieved from https://www.synchroninc.com/stentrode-bci-apple-device-control/
[2] Neuralink. (2022). Neuralink's N1: A New Era of Brain-Computer Interfaces. Retrieved from https://www.neuralink.com/technology/n1
- The Synchron Stentrode, a minimally invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, enables people with physical impairments to control Apple devices.
- In contrast, Neuralink's N1 chip, a more invasive BCI system, requires open-brain surgery and offers potential higher data bandwidth, but with greater surgical risk and complexity.
- Synchron's Stentrode, partnering with Apple, provides seamless integration with Apple operating systems, allowing real-time thought control of devices like Macs and iPads.
- As the technology evolves, the Synchron Stentrode offers a more practical and accessible BCI solution for real-world medical and assistive applications, particularly in health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and technology fields.
