Synchron's Stentrode Microchip Aims to Aid Millions

Dr. Tom Oxley, founder of Synchron, claims that the Stentrode microchip, which translates brain signals into actions, could assist around 100 million people globally, particularly those unable to use their arms due to conditions like ALS. Following successful trials where patients could compose messages using the device, the Stentrode's less invasive installation process—taking only 20 minutes—has attracted investments from notable figures like Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates. Unlike other brain-computer interfaces such as Elon Musk's Neuralink, the Stentrode does not require drilling into the skull and can potentially be implanted in outpatient settings. Insights from the development process revealed that patients primarily desired the ability to operate smartphones for daily tasks like shopping and communicating with loved ones. In a noteworthy case, a patient successfully used the technology to control an Amazon Alexa device, marking a significant step in enhancing communication for those with severe disabilities. The advancements in neurotechnology, including both implantable and wearable devices, are set to revolutionize how individuals with mobility impairments interact with the digital world.