What is BCI and How Could it be Part of Our Lives by 2030?
In an article posted by Clinical Trials Arena (2025), they claim that we are drastically closer to brain-computer interfaces, or BCIs, than we think.
" Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) represent a groundbreaking technology that establishes a direct communication pathway between the brain’s electrical activity and external devices, such as computers or robotic limbs. While the concept may seem futuristic, breakthroughs and clinical trials indicate that BCIs are on the verge of commercialisation, with estimates suggesting a market launch as early as 2030." (Clinical Trials Arena, 2025)
Who would have thought this technology was so close? Well, apparently Apple!
" The timeline continues to evolve, with Apple announcing a BCI Human Interface Device input protocol in May 2025. This allows BCIs to interact with Apple products. Subsequently, Synchron demonstrated its BCI’s ability to control an iPad in August 2025. Apple’s technology highlights the ability to integrate BCIs into everyday technology." (Clinical Trials Arena, 2025)
While there are a multitude of ways that BCIs may hit the commercial market, will vehicles be fast to adapt, or slow to react? Something mentioned in the article is the starting grounds of BCI development- the EEG. When the electroencephalography was developed in the early 20th century, the BCI can of worms was opened. If we understand the signals of the brain and can create an interface between the brain and the technology around us, what happens to the limitations currently faced? How could the ability to control a prosthetic arm the same as you would a natural arm make the lives of millions more accessible?
References
Clinical Trials Arena. (2025). Brain–computer interfaces closer. Clinical Trials Arena. Retrieved from https://www.clinicaltrialsarena.com/analyst-comment/brain-computer-interfaces-closer/
Sah, S. K., Taksande, V., Jadhav, D., & Maurya, A. T. (2024). Exploring the impact of brain–computer interfaces on health care: Innovations, challenges, and future prospects: A review article. Journal of Pharmacy & Bioallied Sciences, 16(Suppl 4), S3037–S3040. https://doi.org/10.4103/jpbs.jpbs_1005_24
U.S. Government Accountability Office. (2022, September 8). Science & Tech Spotlight: Brain-Computer Interfaces (GAO-22-106118). https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-22-106118
