Industry Insights · Brain–Computer Interface
Map of China's core BCI companies: three tiers and technology routes
Driven by policy, capital and technology, China's BCI industry has formed a layered, multi-path structure.
Tier one: technology leaders and commercial breakthroughs
Leading firms have hit milestones in core tech or commercialization. The non-invasive leader's bionic hand is the only such product cleared by the US FDA; with a consumer focus-training headband it forms a 'rehab + consumer health' model, and closed a ~RMB 2B Series B to chase a 'non-invasive first listing'.
Invasive 'twin-engine': decoding and electrodes
The invasive route is pushed by two firms: one strong in the world's only Mandarin real-time decoding system and silk-protein flexible electrodes, building a high-throughput electrode 'super-factory' after major investment; the other first on compliance — its implantable BCI hand-function compensation system won NMPA approval in March 2026, the world's first approved invasive BCI device.
Shared challenges beyond the tiers
Whatever the route, long-term signal stability, electrode biocompatibility, reliable encapsulation and manufacturability are the common gates from prototype to product.
The BIO angle
FAQ
How are China's BCI firms tiered?
Roughly by core technology and commercialization: tier one has milestone tech or an approved product; others are in engineering and clinical progression. Routes split into non-invasive, invasive and semi-invasive.
What is the world's first approved invasive BCI?
An implantable BCI system for hand-function compensation in quadriplegic spinal-cord-injury patients, approved by NMPA in March 2026.
Why do flexible electrodes matter?
They directly affect long-term signal stability and tissue compatibility; a flexible substrate plus medical-silicone encapsulation is key to reducing inflammation and scarring.
Related reading
- BCI in 2026: Technology Paths, Global Landscape and China's Rise | BIO Insights
- Brain–Spine Interfaces Heat Up: a 'Neural Bridge' Route and a $40M+ Angel Round | BIO Insights
- China Prices BCI: Invasive Implantation Fee RMB 6,000–6,600 per Case | BIO Insights
Note: an original analysis compiled from public industry information; figures and conclusions per official/original sources. Not investment advice.
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