Synchron Raises $200M to Prepare for Brain-Computer Interface Launch
Synchron has secured $200 million in Series D funding to advance pivotal trials and prepare for the commercial debut of its Stentrode brain-computer interface system. This technology aims to help people control digital devices directly through neural signals.
How Synchron’s Approach Differs
Brain-computer interface (BCI) companies are developing systems that convert brain signals into actions, such as hands-free device control. However, their methods differ significantly. While Elon Musk’s Neuralink requires partial skull removal to implant its device, Synchron’s Stentrode is delivered through a minimally invasive catheter procedure.
Each device represents a trade-off between surgical invasiveness and the quality of neural signal capture.
Synchron’s first-generation Stentrode has 16 electrodes, compared to Neuralink’s N1 implant with 1,024. Despite fewer electrodes, the Stentrode still allows individuals with severe paralysis to operate digital devices independently.
Future Development and Research
The Series D funding will help Synchron build on the advantages of its initial system while addressing its current limitations. The company is already developing a next-generation, transcatheter, high-channel whole-brain interface to enhance performance.
Integrating Artificial Intelligence
As part of its long-term strategy, Synchron is expanding its artificial intelligence team in New York City. The AI models under development are designed to analyze brain data and move closer to decoding human thought in real time.
Author Summary
Synchron’s $200M investment empowers the company to expand trials, refine its minimally invasive BCI, and innovate AI models that could interpret brain activity with greater accuracy.