China is catching up to the US in brain tech, rivaling firms like Elon Musk’s Neuralink

In recent years, brain technology, also known as brain-computer interface (BCI), has become one of the most exciting areas of science and innovation. Companies like Elon Musk’s Neuralink have gained global attention for their futuristic ideas. These ideas include allowing people to control devices with their thoughts and helping those with disabilities regain movement and communication abilities.

While the United States has been a leader in this field for a long time, China is now quickly catching up. The country is investing heavily in brain tech research and development. Chinese scientists, tech companies, and universities are working diligently to close the gap. Some experts believe they may soon match or even exceed U.S. efforts in certain areas.

What Is Brain Tech?

Brain technology, or brain-computer interface (BCI), is a system that enables the brain to communicate directly with external devices like computers, robotic arms, or smartphones. It primarily works in two ways:

- Reading brain signals and turning them into commands for machines.
- Sending signals back to the brain to assist with medical treatment or provide sensory feedback.

BCI has many potential applications:

- Helping people with paralysis or neurological disorders.
- Improving mental health treatments.
- Boosting memory and learning abilities.
- Creating human-machine “hybrid intelligence.”

Neuralink: The U.S. Leader

Founded by Elon Musk, Neuralink is likely the most well-known brain tech company today. Its aim is to develop brain implants that can assist people with medical conditions and eventually connect human brains to artificial intelligence (AI).

In 2024, Neuralink made headlines by successfully implanting a brain chip into a human patient. The patient was able to control a computer cursor with his thoughts, demonstrating real progress in the field. This breakthrough positioned the U.S. at the forefront of the BCI race and generated global interest.

China’s Fast Progress in Brain Tech

While the U.S. has received significant media attention, China has been quietly yet rapidly advancing behind the scenes. The Chinese government has prioritized brain science as a national focus. It has invested billions of dollars into research programs, including its “China Brain Project.”

Some key points about China’s push in brain tech include:

- More than 80 brain science labs established across the country.
- Universities like Tsinghua University and Fudan University leading research efforts.
- Chinese tech companies like SinoMind and NeuroXess developing advanced brain chips and BCI systems.

In 2023, NeuroXess completed brain implant surgery similar to Neuralink’s, indicating that China is narrowing the gap. Recently, Chinese scientists published studies showing that their brain-machine systems enabled monkeys to control robotic arms using only their thoughts, marking a significant achievement in the field.

Government Support Makes a Big Difference

One reason for China’s rapid progress is strong government support. Unlike in the U.S., where most brain tech development is driven by private companies and startups, China’s efforts receive state backing. The government provides funding for long-term research, builds brain research centers, and trains thousands of young scientists.

This support has allowed China to advance more quickly in specific areas, especially in:

- Collecting data from human brains, while adhering to strict ethical guidelines.
- AI-powered processing of brain signals.
- Miniaturizing brain implants for safety and comfort.

Global Impacts: A New Tech Race

The growing competition between the U.S. and China in brain tech is now referred to as a “brain race,” similar to the space race during the Cold War. Instead of rockets, the aim now is to connect human brains to machines.

This tech race could lead to major global impacts:

- Medical breakthroughs with improved treatments for Alzheimer’s, stroke, and spinal cord injuries.
- Military applications offering faster decision-making tools and better soldier performance.
- Economic growth creating entirely new industries focused on neurotechnology.
- AI integration allowing human minds to work alongside machines in unprecedented ways.

However, this race also raises crucial ethical questions, such as:

- Who owns the brain data?
- How will privacy be protected?
- Could these tools be abused for control or surveillance?

These are issues that both China and the U.S. must address as they continue to advance.

The Road Ahead

As of 2025, the United States still leads in brain tech, thanks to companies like Neuralink and strong research at universities like MIT and Stanford. However, China’s progress is notable and speeding up. Some experts believe that within the next five to ten years, China could match or even surpass U.S. capabilities in key areas of neurotechnology.

This global competition isn't just about being first; it’s about shaping the future of the human mind itself.

Final Thoughts

The brain is the most complex organ in the human body, and learning to connect it with machines presents one of science’s biggest challenges. The fact that two of the world’s largest powers—China and the U.S.—are heavily investing in this field highlights the importance of brain tech for the future.

Whether it’s restoring sight, helping paralyzed individuals walk again, or merging our thoughts with AI, brain-computer interfaces could change our lives in ways we cannot currently imagine.

As China increases its efforts, the world is closely watching this unfolding technology race.