While non-invasive BCIs are gaining traction in wearables, invasive brain-computer interfaces—like those developed by Neuralink, Blackrock Neurotech, and Synchron—are pushing the boundaries of what’s neurologically possible. These systems involve surgically implanted electrodes that connect directly to brain tissue, enabling high-resolution data capture and precise neural control.

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Neuralink’s brain implant, for instance, has demonstrated the ability to let a quadriplegic patient control a computer cursor using only thoughts. This level of signal fidelity is unmatched by external devices and opens doors to restoring movement, speech, and memory in patients with neurological disorders. The company’s long-term vision includes bidirectional brain-cloud interfaces for enhanced cognition.

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Blackrock Neurotech has already enabled over 30 human implantations, supporting applications like robotic arm control and text communication through thought. Their Utah Array captures thousands of signals across multiple cortical areas, which is crucial for fine motor control and real-time feedback.

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Synchron takes a less invasive path with its Stentrode—a brain interface inserted via blood vessels. It avoids open-brain surgery while still enabling neural signal decoding, particularly for motor impairment.

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Invasive BCIs offer life-changing benefits for people with paralysis or neurological diseases, and early commercial applications are already in human trials. The brain is no longer locked—it’s becoming writable.