Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the need to explore non-invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies rather than invasive methods, as proposed by Chinese Academy of Sciences academician Zheng Hairong [2][3][9]. Industry Overview - The global BCI market is projected to grow from $2.35 billion in 2023 to $10.89 billion by 2033, indicating significant investment and interest in this sector [5]. - Major players in the BCI field include Neuralink, which focuses on invasive methods, and Synchron, which has developed a less invasive approach with support from tech giants like Apple and NVIDIA [2][7]. Technological Developments - Neuralink has reported advancements in its invasive BCI technology, with patients able to control complex devices using their thoughts, showcasing a leap from simple cursor control to intricate robotic manipulation [5][6]. - Synchron has achieved key safety milestones with its BCI devices, including FDA approval for temporary implants and successful long-term trials without severe adverse events [8]. Critique of Current Approaches - Zheng Hairong criticizes the invasive methods as "brute force engineering," arguing that they fail to understand the complexity of the human brain and its evolutionary history [3][9]. - He highlights the challenges of biological compatibility in invasive BCIs, noting that many electrodes fail due to the brain's natural resistance [6]. Alternative Approaches - Zheng advocates for a non-invasive approach that utilizes external technologies like ultrasound and fMRI to read and potentially write brain signals without penetrating the skull [9][10]. - This method aims to decode brain activity by observing the relationship between blood flow and neural activity, likening it to a soldier and their supplies [10]. Future of AI and BCI - Zheng outlines a three-stage evolution of AI, with the final stage being "biological intelligence" achieved through effective BCI integration [12][13]. - He envisions a future where hospitals transform into AI-driven data centers, moving away from traditional medical practices [14]. Ethical Considerations - The article raises concerns about the ethical implications of BCI technology, emphasizing the need for strong regulations to prevent misuse and ensure human control over technology [14][15]. - Global legislative efforts are underway to protect brain data, indicating a growing recognition of the ethical challenges posed by BCI advancements [15]. Timeline for Adoption - Zheng estimates that it may take 20 to 30 years for BCI technology to become a part of everyday life for the general public [17].

Core Viewpoint - The global brain-computer interface (BCI) sector is experiencing significant advancements, with companies like Neuralink and Synchron leading the way in different technological approaches [2][4][6] Group 1: Company Developments - Neuralink has increased its number of human trial participants to 7 and demonstrated the ability to control a robotic arm using thoughts [2] - Synchron has achieved native integration with Apple devices through a new protocol, enhancing its market presence [2] - Precision Neuroscience received FDA approval for a temporary implantable device, marking a step towards commercialization [6] Group 2: Market Growth - The global BCI market is projected to grow from $2.35 billion in 2023 to $10.89 billion by 2033, indicating a substantial increase in investment and interest [4] Group 3: Technological Approaches - Two main technological paths are identified: invasive methods like those used by Neuralink, which require surgical implantation, and less invasive methods like those of Synchron, which utilize blood vessels for sensor delivery [2][6] - The invasive approach has shown promising results, allowing patients to perform complex tasks, but faces challenges related to biological compatibility [5][6] Group 4: Alternative Perspectives - Chinese Academy of Sciences academician Zheng Hairong advocates for non-invasive BCI technologies, arguing that current invasive methods are outdated and lack imagination [3][8] - Zheng proposes using external physical methods like ultrasound and fMRI to read and potentially write brain information without surgical intervention [8][9] Group 5: Future Implications - Zheng predicts that the future of AI will involve a three-stage evolution, culminating in "biological intelligence" achieved through effective brain-computer integration [10][11] - He envisions a healthcare system transformed by AI, moving away from traditional methods to a data-centric model that predicts and manages diseases [12] Group 6: Ethical Considerations - The ethical implications of BCI technology are becoming a global concern, with countries like Chile and Colorado taking legislative steps to protect brain data [13] - Zheng emphasizes the need for strong regulations to ensure that brain-computer interfaces remain under human control, highlighting the potential risks of losing that control [12][13] Group 7: Timeline for Adoption - Zheng estimates that it may take 20 to 30 years for BCI technology to become a part of everyday life for the general public [14]

Core Insights - The article discusses a recent event at Tsinghua University where a team utilized non-invasive brain-computer interface technology in aesthetic and artistic research, marking a significant advancement in the field of neuroaesthetics [4][6]. Group 1: Neuroaesthetics Research - The Tsinghua University Neuroengineering Laboratory's research team aims to decode audience aesthetic experiences by synchronously capturing neural activity during live performances [4][6]. - Neuroaesthetics is an emerging interdisciplinary field that combines neuroscience with art and humanities, focusing on how humans perceive and evaluate beauty at a neural level [5]. - The research utilizes non-invasive brainwave caps to collect data from multiple participants simultaneously, enhancing the understanding of audience engagement in real-time artistic experiences [6][8]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - China's research in non-invasive brain-computer interface technology has been ongoing since the 1990s, with the country now being on par with international counterparts and even leading in certain aspects [6]. - The application of non-invasive brain-computer interfaces in rehabilitation has shown significant results, with recovery times reduced by one-third and effectiveness improved by one-third compared to traditional methods [6]. - The current experiment represents the first systematic application of non-invasive brain-computer interface technology in neuroaesthetics research, providing high temporal resolution and the ability to operate in natural settings [6][8]. Group 3: Future Directions - Future plans include exploring the mechanisms behind core aesthetic experiences such as "immersion" and "empathy," and applying findings to support artistic creation, emotional regulation, and rehabilitation [13].