Can Your Brain Control Devices? Here’s How It’s Becoming Reality

Hi,

How Close Are We to Thinking with Machines?

Precision Neuroscience just made big news. They raised $93 million in a funding round, taking their company valuation to $500 million. But what does this mean for us? This is about brain-computer interfaces (BCI). It's where science and technology meet your brain.?

Let’s find out what they’re building and why everyone is watching them.

What Is Precision Neuroscience?

Precision Neuroscience is a company in New York. They’re working on a brain implant called the Layer 7 Cortical Interface. It sounds complicated, but the idea is simple. The implant sits on the surface of your brain. It doesn’t go deep or damage tissues. Its job? To turn your thoughts into actions on a computer or other devices.

The implant reads your brain signals using super-thin electrodes. A tiny processor translates those signals into commands. Those commands let you move a cursor or type words—just by thinking.

Right now, this technology is still in testing.?

But the possibilities are huge.

Who’s Behind This Innovation?

Dr. Ben Rapoport, a neurosurgeon, started Precision Neuroscience. He also co-founded Neuralink, Elon Musk’s brain tech company. Dr. Rapoport teamed up with Michael Mager, who is now Precision’s CEO. Together, they’re building what they call the “next generation” of brain implants.

Their approach is different. They focus on making the device as safe and easy to use as possible. Instead of cutting deep into the brain, their implant just touches the surface.

Why the $93 Million Matters

The $93 million funding round is part of a bigger goal to raise $100 million. It’s not just about money. It’s about trust. Investors believe Precision Neuroscience can make brain-computer interfaces a reality.

This funding follows their earlier success. In 2023, they raised $41 million in Series B funding. At that time, their total funding was $53 million. Now, with this latest round, they have raised nearly $146 million. That’s a lot of confidence from the tech world.

Why Brain Implants Are Exciting

Think about people who can’t move or speak because of injuries or disease. Brain implants could give them a way to communicate. It’s like opening a locked door. They could type messages, control robotic arms, or even drive wheelchairs—just by thinking.

Precision’s device, the Layer 7 Cortical Interface, focuses on being minimally invasive. This could mean shorter recovery times and less risk for patients.

Other companies are also working on BCIs, but each has its own goals. For example:

• Neuralink (founded by Elon Musk) wants to connect brains to computers for everyday use. They raised over $685 million so far.
• Neurable, based in Boston, develops BCIs for virtual reality. They focus on non-invasive devices.
• Science Corporation, in California, works on restoring vision for blind people. Their implant helps the brain “see” images again.

What Makes Precision Different?

Precision Neuroscience stands out for its safety-first approach. Unlike Neuralink, they don’t want to drill deeply into the brain. Instead, their implant sits gently on the surface. This makes surgeries less risky.

They also focus on practical use. The Layer 7 device doesn’t require wires sticking out of your head. Instead, everything works under the skin. This could make it more comfortable for patients.

Precision is betting that their simpler, safer design will make brain implants more acceptable to the public.

The Competition: Neuralink and Others

You can’t talk about Precision Neuroscience without mentioning Neuralink, Elon Musk’s company. Neuralink has been in the spotlight for years. They’re developing high-tech brain implants with big promises.

Neuralink’s latest project is called Blindsight. This device aims to restore vision for people who are blind—even those blind from birth. It works by placing electrodes in the brain’s visual cortex. These electrodes activate neurons to create images.

In 2023, Neuralink received FDA approval for human trials of Blindsight. This was a major step forward for the company. However, their approach involves more invasive surgeries, which raises concerns for some experts.

Other competitors like Neurable and Science Corporation focus on different areas, such as virtual reality and vision restoration. Precision Neuroscience’s focus on simplicity and safety could help them stand out.?

Challenges Ahead

The road to brain-computer interfaces isn’t easy. There are scientific, ethical, and regulatory hurdles. Here are a few challenges Precision and others face:

1. Approval from Regulators: Precision’s device must pass strict testing before it reaches hospitals. Regulatory bodies like the FDA need to ensure it’s safe and effective.
2. High Costs: Developing brain implants is expensive. Even with $93 million, more funding will likely be needed.
3. Public Perception: Many people feel uneasy about brain implants. Precision’s non-invasive approach might ease some fears, but convincing the public won’t be simple.
4. Competition: Neuralink and others have deep pockets and big teams. Precision must stay ahead by focusing on what makes them unique.

What’s Next for Precision Neuroscience?

With $93 million in fresh funding, Precision can move forward. Their goals likely include:

• Finishing Testing: The Layer 7 device is still being refined. They need to prove it works in real-life situations.
• Expanding Their Team: More money means hiring more experts to speed up development.
• Getting FDA Approval: This is the biggest hurdle. Without it, they can’t bring their product to market.

If all goes well, Precision Neuroscience could help change how we think about brain-computer connections.

Why This Matters

Brain-computer interfaces are no longer science fiction. Companies like Precision Neuroscience are making it real. Imagine a world where someone who can’t speak can send a message. Or someone who can’t move can control a computer with their mind.

Precision’s work could help millions of people regain some independence. It’s not just about technology—it’s about giving people their lives back.

With $93 million in new funding, they’re closer than ever. Now, it’s a race to see who can bring this technology to the world first. Will it be Precision? Neuralink? Or someone else? Time will tell, but one thing’s clear—our brains and computers are about to get a lot closer.