China Approves First Market-Ready Brain Implant to Cure Paralysis, Neck Injuries

China has become the first country to approve a commercial brain–computer interface (BCI) for treating paralysis, WIRED reported.

The implant, called NEO, was developed by Neuracle Medical Technology and is designed to translate a patient’s thoughts into movement. It is intended for people aged 19 to 60 who have paralysis caused by spinal cord or neck injuries.

After 18 months of clinical testing, China’s National Medical Products Administration authorized the device for sale following safety validation. According to reported trial data, 32 patients have already used the implant without any adverse side effects.

The device is implanted in the skull and uses a set of electrodes positioned on the brain’s motor cortex. When a user imagines movement, the implant sends signals to an external system, which converts those signals into actions performed by assistive devices such as a robotic glove. In practice, this allows users to perform basic tasks like grasping objects or handling utensils.

While brain-computer interface technologies are under development in several countries, most remain in the clinical trial stage. Companies such as Elon Musk’s Neuralink have yet to receive full regulatory approval for commercial deployment.

China’s approval comes alongside a broader national strategy to lead the sector. A government policy roadmap outlines 17 steps aimed at making the country a global leader in BCI research, development, and commercialization within five years.

With the approval of NEO, brain–computer interface technology has moved from experimental research into early commercialization, positioning China at the forefront of a rapidly evolving and highly competitive global industry.