
&nbsp;

On the first episode of Neurotech Daily, Toma interviews [Adam Molnar](https://www.linkedin.com/in/adammolnar1/), the Head of Partnerships and Co-founder of [Neurable](https://neurable.com/).

**The link to the episode is [here](https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/neurotechjp/episodes/1--Unlocking-Focus-with-Enten-from-Neurable--Adam-Molnar-e1n3968).**

&nbsp;

The podcast delves into the fascinating world of neurotechnology and its potential to revolutionize our lives. It also delves into Neurable’s latest product, [Enten](https://neurable.com/headphones). Enten is a wearable device that utilizes electroencephalography (EEG) technology. The goal of Enten is to make EEG more accessible and user-friendly.

In this article, we will explore the key takeaways from the episode, highlighting Adam's insights and quotes.

![enten.jpeg](https://neurotechjp.com/img/adam-neurable/enten.jpeg)
_Image: Enten_

&nbsp;

## Using Biomarkers to Improve Breaks and Focus

Adam discusses the use of biomarkers to help individuals take better breaks and improve their focus.

> How can we use these biomarkers to help people take better breaks that people are actually not as good at taking breaks as they think they are.

&nbsp;

He emphasizes that **people often work themselves to exhaustion and are not as good at taking breaks as they think**. Neurable aims to utilize intelligent biomarkers from brain activity to enhance well-being, destigmatize break culture, and improve overall productivity.

&nbsp;

## Hands-Free Control of Augmented Reality Systems and the Future of Neurable

Adam highlights the importance of **hands-free control in augmented reality (AR) systems and the potential shift in computing paradigms with the rise of AR and virtual reality (VR)**. He mentions ongoing conversations and projects related to partnering with medical or clinical studies, indicating Neurable’s commitment to incorporating control features into their product.

> For me, I think also hands-free control of augmented reality systems when they become ubiquitous will be very important.

&nbsp;

## Neurable’s Approach to Data Ethics and Privacy in Neurotech

Adam addresses concerns about privacy in neurotech and emphasizes Neurable’s commitment to data ethics. He assures that **data collected will primarily be used for the benefit of the individual and that measures are in place to protect and safeguard the data**. Compliance with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA is a priority for Neurable.

> We want to safeguard it from the source, meaning the person, and then using that to enforce privacy considerations moving forward.

&nbsp;

## Making Brain Measurements Ubiquitous

The ultimate goal of Neurable is to **make brain measurements more accessible**, aiming to create a world without limitations. Adam envisions a future where neurotechnology becomes an equalizing force.

> How can we use these devices, these tools, these systems to help overcome that and give ourselves some kind of an equalizing force?

&nbsp;

The [Neurable Discord](https://discord.gg/RPK4ABm) serves as a platform for individuals to seek answers and engage in discussions.

&nbsp;

## In conclusion

Neurable, under the leadership of Adam Molnar, is at the forefront of the neurotech industry, harnessing biomarkers to enhance focus, well-being, and productivity. With a strong commitment to data ethics and privacy, Neurable aims to make brain measurements ubiquitous, creating a world where limitations are overcome.

We look forward to their future.


The first episode of Neurotech Daily, featuring Adam Molnar, co-founder and head of business at Neurable.

Neurotechjp post

Unlocking Focus with Enten from Neurable | Adam Molnar


&nbsp;

At [CES](https://www.ces.tech/), the world's largest hardware exhibition, companies from large corporations to startups gather in a wide range of fields. With the end of the pandemic, more companies participated in CES 2023 than CES 2022, and the momentum was picking up.

&nbsp;

The neurotech field is also thriving.
The NeurotechJP team visited CES 2023 and conducted interviews with each neurotech company.

&nbsp;

This article introduces five companies that are particularly noteworthy among them.

Also, the content introduced in this article is an excerpt from the "[CES 2023 Neurotech Report](https://neurotechjp.com/slides/ces-2023/)" and if you would like to see the full version, please contact us from this **[form](https://survey.typeform.com/to/qPJz3ebs)**.

&nbsp;

## **1. [Alphabeats](https://www.listenalphabeats.com/)**

Alphabeats is a Dutch startup that provides mental training using neurofeedback for athletes.
Athletes wear a headband-type EEG device and listen to their favorite music. Neurofeedback is performed by acquiring EEG at that time, and it is possible to **improve sharpness and concentration in the mental aspect**.

The company provides solutions to sports clubs, and **coaches can analyze and improve athletes' mental performance**.

They also partner with major electronic device manufacturers such as **[Philips](https://www.philips.dk/) and [Garmin](https://www.garmin.com/da-DK/),** who offer smartwatches.

![alphabeats](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ces2023-5-startups/alphabeats.jpg)
_Image: Alphabeats at CES2023_

&nbsp;

### Points to note

The company is expected to focus on **developing software platforms while collaborating with hardware companies** due to their business partnership with major device manufacturers such as Garmin.
Therefore, **service scalability** is high, and business expansion to other fields, such as non-athletes, is also expected.

&nbsp;

## **2. [Wisear](https://www.wisear.io/)**

Wisear is a French startup that offers an In-Ear type BCI called "Wisearphone". The Wisearphone has two electrodes that can pick up signals from the brain, eyes, and facial muscles, and they have developed noise processing algorithms and input mechanisms.

They are a company that focuses on device control and envisions **ubiquitous hands-free function**. Currently, they are mainly promoting partnerships in **AR**.

They will also provide input mechanisms that incorporate EOG (eye movement) and EEG (brain waves) signals in the future.

![Wisear](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ces2023-5-startups/wisear.jpg)
_Image: Wisear Demo at CES2023_

&nbsp;

### Points to note

Wisear is a company that operates in the field of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and prioritizes the development of **user-friendly input mechanisms**. Its strategy focuses on **HCI research, such as hands-free and custom settings.**

&nbsp;

## **3. [REVAI](https://revai.ca/)**

REVAI is a Canadian startup that develops **electrodes and an AI platform that enables the vagus nerve stimulation technique through the skull.** The company specializes in the development of the stimulation part and is a **B2B2C startup that provides stimulation electrodes and platforms to headphone companies on a subscription basis**. Neuro Modulation aims to improve wellness such as concentration through a 15-minute session a day with only one ear.

It is expected to establish a stimulation technique based on scientific knowledge through joint research with universities such as the University of Montreal, the University of Toronto, UC San Diego, and McGill University.

![REVAI](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ces2023-5-startups/revai.jpg)
_Image: REVAI at CES2023_

&nbsp;

### Points to note

The fact that they develop electrodes in-house and provide technology to headphone manufacturing companies rather than consumer products has **future potential as a B2B2C** model. The basic structure of neurotech devices is to measure brain waves or physiological signals and exert their effects by analyzing them, so it is essential to have users use them for a long time. Therefore, it can be said that t**he ability to efficiently collect data through business partnerships with major headphone companies is a significant advantage.**

&nbsp;

## **4. [Earable](https://frenzband.com/)**

Earable is a US-based startup that develops wearable electroencephalographs (FRENZ Brainband) that monitor neural activity and **improve sleep and concentration/relaxation states**.

FRENZ Brainband has a total of seven sensors, with five sensors in contact with the forehead and one sensor on each side behind the ears. It is also capable of **providing sound stimulation through bone conduction**.

In addition, after eight years of research and development by scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder, Earable holds multiple awards and **more than 15 patents** in machine learning algorithms, material science, and electrical engineering.

![Earable](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ces2023-5-startups/earable.jpg)
_Image: Earable Demo at CES2023_

&nbsp;

### Points to note

What makes Earable excellent is its ability to **provide real-time feedback during sleep, which directly promotes sleep improvement.** There are many products and services for improving sleep, but they often remain indirect, such as checking sleep scores or mindfulness. In such a case, **Earable's service allows for feedback during sleep through bone conduction, promoting improvement without the user exerting any effort**.

&nbsp;

## **5. [Wearable Devices](https://www.wearabledevices.co.il/)**

Wearable Devices Ltd., an Israeli startup, is developing a band for smartwatches called Mudra Band, which has an **EMG sensor** attached to it.

Although there are many bands with EMG sensors, Wearable Devices' technology, called Surface Nerve Conductance, allows for **significantly less artifact in EMG measurement** compared to conventional models.

As a result, it is possible to measure **only the EMG movements that the wearer intentionally makes**, which was not possible with conventional EMG sensors. This is expected to lead to **more accurate device control**.

![Wearable Devices](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ces2023-5-startups/wearable-devices.jpg)
_Image: Wearable Devices Demo at CES2023_

&nbsp;

### Points to Note

The fact that **EMG is detected only when the wearer moves intentionally** has the potential to go beyond mere noise reduction and contribute to next-generation device control. Therefore, this device can evaluate the wearer's intended movements, leading to **more intuitive device control in the future**.
Additionally, this technology is highly promising as it is related to **feedback-side device control** that determines what electrical stimuli will make the wearer feel as if they are actually moving their own hand based on the knowledge gained from using this technology.

&nbsp;

## **CES2023 Neurotech Report Available Now**

This article introduced five neurotech startups showcased at CES2023.

The "CES2023 Neurotech Report" provides more detailed explanations of these five companies as well as other noteworthy companies.

If you are interested in this report, please contact us using this form.

![CES2023 neurotech report](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ces2023-5-startups/ces-2023-en.jpg)

Details:
[https://neurotechjp.com/slides/ces-2023/](https://neurotechjp.com/slides/ces-2023/)


At CES, the world's largest hardware trade show, companies from large corporations to startups gather across a wide range of fields. At CES2023 held in January this year, about 35 neurotech startups exhibited. The NeurotechJP team visited CES2023 and conducted interviews with each company on site.In this article, we introduce five companies that are particularly noteworthy among them.

5 neurotech companies to watch at CES2023


&nbsp;

We interviewed Dr. [Yukiyasu Kamitani](https://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/explore/professor/10_kamitani.html) of Kyoto University’s Department of Intelligent Informatics in the Graduate School Informatics. He is a leading expert in the development of brain decoding.

&nbsp;

Dr. Kamitani received his undergraduate degree from the University of Tokyo and his PhD from California Institute of Technology. He conducted research at Harvard Medical School, Princeton University and the Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR) Brain Information Laboratory between 2001 and 2004. In 2015, he joined the Graduate School of Informatics at Kyoto University where he is now a faculty member.

&nbsp;

## First, What is Brain Decoding?

Brain signals can be regarded as code that represents our state of mind. The act of decoding those signals is called [brain decoding](https://kamitani-lab.ist.i.kyoto-u.ac.jp/post/152112822106/decoding-the-brain).

Currently, the Kamitani Lab is using machine learning and other techniques to model the brain's information processing and information representation, and is conducting research on decoding [visual images](https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/240317v1) and dreams from the brain.

[![Brain decoding](https://neurotechjp.com/img/kamitani-kyoto/research.jpg)](https://youtu.be/jsp1KaM-avU)
_Video: Deep image reconstruction: Natural images_

&nbsp;

## Motivation to Pursue Brain Decoding

Dr. Kamitani, now a pioneer in the development of brain decoding technology, began this line of research due to disappointment with methods used at the time.

> I developed brain decoding when I was at Princeton in 2003-4.
> **At that time, around 1990, fMRI came out and spread rapidly, but to be honest, there was no research that I thought was that great. The standard method at the time, SPM(GLM), was a very boring model, but everyone believed in it. I was so disappointed with the situation that I decided to do it myself, and started to rebuild the methodology from scratch.**
> Brain signals also appear as patterns in images, and I think the natural way to analyze them is to decipher what is encoded in them.

> When I was given new experimental methods, I would approach it with a playful mindset. With this approach, using GLM to "map the brain" was not an obvious thought.
> I began with an obvious approach; because brain signals are patterns, it would be a good idea to consider pattern recognition models. Although this approach had been around, it was not yet mainstream.
> \*SPM:Statistical Parametric Mapping
> GLM:Generalized Linear Model

&nbsp;

## Challenges in Today’s Brain Decoding Research

Almost 20 years have passed since Dr. Kamitani first began brain decoding research. From his pioneering perspective, what are the prominent challenges in brain decoding research today?

> **The brain imaging and brain measurement techniques are currently not the bottleneck. I believe that we will unlock more with current imaging techniques by working on the analysis.**
> That is not to say that advances in brain imaging will not improve brain decoding. If the resolution of MRI improves or if more electrodes can be implanted in the brain, it will allow more information to be decoded. However, much of the work in analysis remains to unlock this potential.

> My hope (for future BCI) is to be able to measure the brain in a natural state. Having a implanted electrodes in the brain with wireless communication would be ideal.

&nbsp;

The Kamitani Laboratory is currently conducting research on [intracardiac imagery](https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/240317v1) and dream decoding. The lab is focused on developing better decoding techniques with higher accuracy.

&nbsp;

## Communicating via the Brain Directly

In "[Brain Science Guru 2017 "Brain Decoding: Technology for Reading the Mind from the Brain](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jmVr1nDvq4)," he spoke about the realization of communicating directly through the brain using brain decoding.

[![Brain decoding conf](https://neurotechjp.com/img/kamitani-kyoto/conference.jpg)](https://youtu.be/1jmVr1nDvq4)
_Video: "Brain Science Guru 2017 "Brain Decoding: The Art of Reading the Mind from the Brain"_

Is it currently possible to perform brain-to-brain telepathy? And what stage is the technology at now?

&nbsp;

> Currently, the BMIs are those that restore motor function in people with physical disabilities. Furthermore, for patients with paralysis, it is still likely that restoring the motor function of the arm to use a tablet is more user-friendly than directly manipulating the tablet with brain signals. There is still work to be done here.

> I believe there are a ton of interesting basic technologies, and there is high potential in measurement and analysis techniques, but I think one of the biggest problems in BMI is that there are no applications that truly meet the needs of the market.
> I think that in a few years, Neuralink and other companies will be able to realize simple operations of prosthetic hands, such as moving a cursor or inputting text.

> In fact, in the research I am doing with Osaka University, we have been studying the use of electrodes implanted in the head to move a prosthetic hand, but I myself do not think that the output of such simple motor commands is the true potential of the brain-machine interface.

&nbsp;

Generally speaking, in order to provide a service or product, it is necessary to satisfy the needs of a third party. BMI/BCI is no exception, and because it is a developing technology, it is difficult and important to know "for whom" the technology will be used.

&nbsp;

## The Neuroverse

Dr. Kamitani sees potential in "neuroverse" as a need for BMI/BCI.

> I think of the brain-machine interface in my mind as something like the Matrix or Inception, where the world inside the brain is taken out and shared.
> **The world inside the brain, which I call the neuroverse, will eventually be intertwined with the metaverse**, and sharing such a world with others is the direction I see in the long run. I am interested in creating the metaverse out of the world extracted from the brain.

&nbsp;

## Industrial Relations with the Kamitani Lab

Industrial applications are also important for the development and generalization of technology. Are there any plans to increase the involvement of industry in future research?

> At one time I was preparing to start my own business, but the technology was still in its infancy, and I was disappointed with the VC industry, where money is made by mentioning the keyword "brain."
> I am now focusing more on basic research and art production.
> I am an advisor to a metaverse company called [cluster](https://cluster.mu/), but I am not doing any applied research at the moment.
> Mr. Kato, the president of Cluster, and I have **been talking about how we should aim for the future of the brain-machine interface, such as extracting the world from the brain, and how we should work toward that goal.**
> Because this is not something that will immediately lead to industry, we will continue to do more basic research.

&nbsp;

## Brain Science in the Future

Dr. Kamitani has been at the forefront of brain science for several decades, but what are his thoughts on the future of brain science?

> It is becoming increasingly clear that much of the research that was touted when I was a student was not good at all. The poor reproducibility of psychological research is well known, but I believe that cognitive neuroscience research is just as bad or worse.
> **Brain imaging research has been spectacularly self-promoting, but there are not many reproducible results.**

> **We have turned a blind eye to the fact that science was being conducted with loose discipline, saying that it was a young field, but I think the current situation is that the reality is gradually being exposed. So, the challenge for the future is how to rebuild that and make it into a mature science.**

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this interview, we asked Dr. Kamitani of Kyoto University about the impetus for the development of brain decoding and the future of brain science research. The neurotech industry is gradually gaining momentum, but we felt that it is important to have a stricter attitude toward science and not be misled by ideals and deceptions. We would like to pay attention to the future growth of decoding technology.


We interviewed Dr. Yukiyasu Kamitani of Kyoto University, a leading expert in the development of brain decoding

A Brain Decoding Pioneer’s Perspective on Neuroscience Now and in the Future | Yukiyasu Kamitani


&nbsp;

How can the brain — nothing more than a collection of neurons — contain consciousness?

We interviewed Dr. Masataka Watanabe of the University of Tokyo, who is tackling the mystery of consciousness through artificial consciousness, and asked him about his vision for the future of consciousness research.

&nbsp;

## A path to brain science opened by chance

Surprisingly, Dr. Watanabe's interest in neuroscience began after he graduated from undergraduate school.

When he was in high school, he was interested in theoretical physics such as the Grand Unified Theory, quantum mechanics, and relativity. He wanted to be involved in science where there are still fundamental problems in the theory. Dr. Watanabe graduated from the University of Tokyo's Faculty of Engineering as an undergraduate and went straight to graduate school there, where he was lucky enough to stumble into with Professor **[Kazuyuki Aihara](https://researchmap.jp/KAihara)**'s lab in the Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Engineering from M2, and worked on theoretical brain science for a while.

After that, the second neural network boom came to an end and the theoretical brain scientists of the same generation gradually moved in different directions, but he had a strong desire to do experiments, so he joined **[Shinsuke Shimojo](https:) at the California Institute of Technology. [researchmap.jp/S_Shimojo](http://researchmap.jp/S_Shimojo))** at Caltech. Dr. Watanabe had always had a complex about high-impact journals such as Nature and Science, and he had an illicit desire to learn the "Shimojo magic" in visual psychology and eliminate that complex.

At the Shimojo Lab, he witnessed research on visual consciousness, and became very interested in consciousness. After returning to Japan, Dr. Watanabe initially conducted experiments with non-invasive brain measurements such as fMRI, but became more and more convinced that invasive methods were necessary. He then decided to study under Nikos Logosis at the Max Planck Institute in Germany.
Although the subject matter was different, he felt very fortunate to have found my way around to "consciousness," an "unsolved problem" that he had been scientifically interested in since high school.

&nbsp;

## What is Uploading Consciousness?

In his book "Brain Consciousness Machine Consciousness," Dr. Watanabe states that consciousness uploading is possible within the next 20 years.

> Uploading consciousness means transplanting human consciousness into a machine and continuing to live inside the machine. The greatest advantage to realizing consciousness uploading is that it opens up the option for those who desire immortality and those who, for whatever reason, have not been able to live even if they wanted to; to continue living for as long as they wish, which has the potential to radically change the way humans live.

![Image of a world where consciousness is uploaded into a machine](http://mindinadevice.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/upload4.png)
_Image of a world where consciousness is uploaded into a machine(Illustrator: Yogi Tomoko, quoted from MinD in a Device's HP)_

&nbsp;

> If some of my assumptions are correct, it would not be surprising if the technology to upload human consciousness to a computer is put to practical use in 20 years. And it won't be by removing the brain from the skull, scanning it, and making a digital copy, as has been proposed so far. This would definitely kill the person who is trying to escape death.

He outlines the steps as follows:

> First, we will take our time to connect the machine to the brain and create a state in which the consciousness is integrated as one. Next, we will use this to transfer the memories stored in the brain to the machine. Once we get to that point, we are done.
> Even if I have a stroke in the right hemisphere of my brain, my consciousness will continue in the left hemisphere of my brain, just as my biological brain will continue in the machine when it comes to an end.
> However, the realization in 20 years will be annotated with the condition that it will be possible only if various conditions are met. These conditions include progress in technological development and expansion of research facilities.

&nbsp;

## Technology required for uploading awareness

As a measure to upload consciousness, Dr. Watanabe proposes the process of connecting a machine hemisphere to the human brain hemisphere, integrating the consciousness of both hemispheres, and then transferring memories.

> The machine is implanted with its own BMI, as if a knife were inserted into the corpus callosum, which connects the left and right hemispheres of the brain. This allows information to be read and written at the individual neuron level for all of the neural contacts that serve to integrate the consciousness that resides in each of the left and right hemispheres of the brain. We believe that the establishment of two-way brain-machine communication will enable the integration of the machine hemisphere's consciousness with the biological brain hemisphere.

![Masataka Watanabe, "From Biological to Artificial Consciousness" (Springer-Nature), 2022](https://neurotechjp.com/img/watanabe-ut/architecture.jpg)
_Masataka Watanabe, "From Biological to Artificial Consciousness" (Springer-Nature), 2022_

> If you insert a BMI into the middle of the corpus callosum, you will cut the axons, and you may feel uneasy about that, but axons have regenerative ability. For example, they can stretch and connect to the original muscle by many centimeters even after a serious injury such as a complex fracture. By attaching IPS cells to the surface of the BMI, we plan to make them serve as targets for axonal regeneration and synapse formation.
> Unfortunately, the regenerative capacity of axons in the central nervous system is not high. Although this problem needs to be solved, it is an area where a large budget is being spent as a treatment for stroke. Dr. Watanabe believes that once it is actually solved, the realization of consciousness uploading will be accelerated at once.

&nbsp;

## “Yet Another Allen **Institute" is the turning point**.

What conditions must be met in the future in order to realize the uploading of consciousness that Dr. Watanabe has set forth? Dr. Watanabe mentioned the name of an institute as one of the conditions.

> In order to realize the uploading of consciousness within 20 years, it is necessary to establish a research institute comparable in scale to the Allen Institute in the first 10 years or so, isn't it?

The [Allen Institute](https://alleninstitute.org/) is a neuroscience institute in Seattle. The founder is Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, who donated $100 million to the institute.

&nbsp;

> If Kennedy had not announced the Apollo program, it would have been a dream for mankind to go to the moon in the 1960s. Because of the Apollo program, space technology, including rocket engines, has developed tremendously in just 10 years.
> Uploading consciousness 20 years later will require a research environment with a considerable sense of scale, not to mention the Apollo Project. Dr. Watanabe would like to realize a research institute on a scale comparable to the Allen Institute as soon as possible, in order to have an environment with a hundred researchers and staff, as well as the latest experimental equipment available. Of course, with the hope of reaching "cruising speed" as quickly as possible by starting small and steadily producing results.
> In such an environment, if we concentrate our resources on research of visual consciousness in monkeys for about 10 years, I think it is quite feasible to unify the consciousness of the machine hemisphere with that of the living brain hemisphere.
> Incidentally, this concept will not fit within the framework of conventional academia, and industry-academia collaboration will be essential. Related to this, in the process leading to the uploading of consciousness, it will be important to contribute to society by bringing medical application technologies for the treatment of brain diseases and dementia to the world.

&nbsp;

## **What are the challenges to overcome for consciousness uploading**?

BMI (Brain Machine) is one of the key technologies for consciousness uploading, which can be roughly classified into three types: invasive, semi-invasive and non-invasive.

![Type of BCI](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-of-interest/category-bci.jpg)
_Type of BCI_

1. **Invasive BMI:** Implanting electrodes directly into the cerebral cortex to measure the activity of single neurons

2. **Semi-Invasive BMI:** Electrodes implanted only on the surface of the head (ECoG) to measure electrical activity generated from the cerebral cortex

3. **Non-Invasive BMI:** Sensors are placed on the scalp. Sensors are placed on the scalp to measure electrical potentials (EEG) and magnetic fields (MEG) generated by the brain

([https://www.neurotechjp.com/jp/blog/5-startups-invasive-bci/](https://www.neurotechjp.com/jp/blog/5-startups-invasive-bci/) | (Adapted from NeurotechJP blog, "5 Invasive BCI Startups")

&nbsp;

While many non-invasive studies are being conducted due to psychological factors of subjects, Dr. Watanabe insists on invasive brain measurement.

The biggest problem with invasive methods is the transmission of pathogens. If a hole is drilled in the skull to connect it to the machine via a wire, the wound is left open, making it very easy for pathogens to invade.

> If this is the case, it is far from suitable for long-term human application. For this reason, we are working to realize a "wireless subcutaneous seal" for BMI. By making the communication wireless and implanting it in the body along with a power source, we can ensure the same safety as in cardiac pacemakers and deep brain stimulation therapy used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
> Wireless subcutaneous sealing has already been realized in deep brain stimulation therapy because the number of channels required is small, and because the framework is dedicated to electrical stimulation, there is no need to read brain information and transmit it outside the body.
> On the other hand, Neuralink's intuition, on the other hand, is to perform neuron firing detection within a chip that is implanted in the cortex and aims to significantly compress the information on neuron activity read from multiple channels. In other words, they are devoting significant development resources to achieving wireless subcutaneous sealing.

&nbsp;

## **What is consciousness uploading for**?

What kind of changes will be brought to our world when the uploading of consciousness is realized? Since consciousness is extremely subjective, it is not easy to imagine, but where does Dr. Watanabe have his sights set on?

> My motivation stems from the desire to elucidate what consciousness is. In this context, "uploading consciousness" is positioned as a byproduct of this process. The reason why it is a byproduct is because I believe that an analysis-by-synthesis approach using artificial consciousness is indispensable to elucidate the neural mechanism of consciousness. Experiments using biological brains will not lead to the final elucidation of consciousness because of their limited degrees of freedom.
> Humans have flying machines in their hands, but originally, based on numerous sketches left by Leonardo da Vinci, they actually built various forms of machines and learned that they could not fly, at least not by human power. He then turned his attention to the gliding form of large birds, and finally discovered that the curvature of the wings was the key to flight. From there, hydrodynamics was born, which eventually led to the Wright Brothers' powered flight. We believe that the science of consciousness must follow a similar process.
> In this case, the mechanism of consciousness will finally be clarified through repeated trial and error. The key here is to "actually fly the flying machine. We will need a way to test the consciousness of the finished machine.
> The "**Turing Test**" is a test to see if artificial intelligence has reached the level of human intelligence, but this does not work in the case of consciousness. Because of the possibility of the existence of "philosophical zombies," beings that look and act indistinguishable from humans but have no consciousness alone, it is impossible to determine whether or not they are conscious by objective methods such as stimulating them and observing their reactions, or examining their internal mechanisms.

&nbsp;

## **What the world of Neurotech will be looking for in the future**.

Finally, we asked what kind of human resources the world of Neurotech will need in the future.

Dr. Watanabe first expressed the importance of animal experiments.

> First of all, we need to conduct animal experiments, so we will need electrophysiologists who can conduct experiments, both vivo and vitro. We will also need a theorist who can analyze the data obtained. I think it would be better to have each of them bring their specialized backgrounds and work together rather than having each of them have comprehensive skills.
> However, the person who acts as the brain to lead the research needs to have a bird's eye view of everything.
> Compared to other countries, I think Japan has an advantage in brain science. This is because there is hardly any other country that has such a full-fledged team of brain science researchers. Although China has been on the rise recently, I believe that Japan still has a strong presence in brain science.

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this issue, we asked Dr. Masataka Watanabe of the University of Tokyo about the prospects for research to elucidate consciousness, with a focus on the uploading of consciousness. He gave us valuable insights about how the uploading of consciousness itself is only a methodology, and that the goal is to elucidate consciousness, and that the establishment of a research institute outside academia will be the turning point in this process. We will continue to follow the future of consciousness research closely.


We interviewed Dr. Masataka Watanabe of the University of Tokyo, who is tackling the mysteries of consciousness with artificial consciousness, and asked him about his vision for the future of consciousness research.

The Science of Consciousness and Uploading Consciousness - The Only Way to Avoid Unwanted Death| Masataka Watanabe


&nbsp;

[CES2022](https://www.ces.tech/), the world’s largest technology conference, featured 2,300 companies including a handful of neurotech companies. Of those companies, one attracted a great deal of attention with the demonstration of their proprietary EEG device “iSyncWave.” The company goes by the name of [iMediSync](https://www.imedisync.com/en/).

&nbsp;

We interviewed [Seung-Wan Kang](https://www.linkedin.com/in/seungwankang/), CEO of iMediSync, about the company's technology behind the scenes and its future prospects.

&nbsp;

## About [iMediSync](https://www.imedisync.com/en/)

The company provides **its own EEG device "[iSyncWave](https://www.imedisync.com/en/products/isyncwave/)" as well as a [EEG analysis AI and cloud-based platform](https://www.imedisync.com/en/products/isyncbrain/)**.

![isyncwave](https://i0.wp.com/healthtechinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/EEGScanneriSync.jpg?fit=600%2C275&ssl=1)
_iSyncWave_

&nbsp;

At CES2022, booth visitors had their brain activity measured and processed into approximately four sheets of diagnostic results in PDF format.

![PDF of diagnostic results obtained from CES2022 demo (report on HRV)](https://neurotechjp.com/img/seung-imedisync/report.jpg)
_PDF of diagnostic results obtained from CES2022 demo (report on HRV)_

![Image of eeg](https://neurotechjp.com/img/seung-imedisync/report-img.png)
_Image： Diagnostic results of EEG_

&nbsp;

The company was founded in 2012 by Seung, who worked as a physician specializing in pain at Seoul National University Hospital.

&nbsp;

The company was founded when he realized that there was a pressing need for **an ethical at-home brain imaging solution.**

> Chronic pain is basically a combination of emotional and cognitive problems. Therefore, it is common practice to diagnose symptoms by measuring brain function.
> However, ethical issues prevent us from measuring brain function in some patients. I realized that we needed a solution for brain function measurements that could be quantitatively measured on an individual basis for each patient.

&nbsp;

## The Path to Providing a Service Platform

After deciding to create a functional brain mapping solution, Seung says there have been several steps in the trajectory of the project: **creating the EEG database, developing the cloud-based software, and developing the device**.

> I decided to develop a functional brain mapping solution that crosses EEG with existing technology and data science.
> The first step was to organize a national project to build a database to store EEG data by gender, followed by the development of a cloud-based EEG analysis platform as a SaaS tool. We then developed an all-in-one device that combines diagnosis and treatment into one.

&nbsp;

There are other methods of measuring brain activity, such as MRI, as well as EEG, as a way to map brain function and diagnose brain-related symptoms. Why does the company use EEG?

> The changes in emotional and cognitive functions that we focus on are also reflected in EEG. By measuring EEG, we can measure emotional and cognitive states. Additionally, EEG is a good match for neurofeedback using stimulation techniques because we can get data in real time.

&nbsp;

The company’s strength lies in not only the EEG measurements, but its ability to perform LED-based stimulation with the same device.

Why did Seung decide to implement brain stimulation into the device?

> I have been interested in neurofeedback from the beginning.
> Stimulation technology using **LEDs or electricity can help support** the brain's own recovery functions.
> For example, if you twist your leg and stimulation therapy can reduce the pain as much as possible, then the brain can then control the further treatment and feedback by the brain itself, leading to an better recovery from the pain.

&nbsp;

Much research has been conducted on brain-mediated stimulation techniques. Stimulation using electricity or magnetism is considered a common method, and many companies have succeeded in commercializing their products.

Why did the company focus on LED light technology when there are so many different methods of stimulation?

&nbsp;

Seung says that the company chose LED technology because of **the minimal number of devices required and the ease with which light can be irradiated to the targeted brain region.**

> Magnetic stimulation (TMS,etc.) is generally difficult to use at home due to its size, and electrical stimulation (tDCS,etc.) is difficult to apply electrical stimulation to targeted areas.
> However, with light stimulation using LEDs, the device can be made much smaller, and light can be easily directed to a targeted specific location.

&nbsp;

## Challenges in device design

iSyncWave has won the international product design [Red Dot Design Award](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/first-ever-integrated-eeg-and-neurotherapeutics-device-isyncwave-wins-the-2022-red-dot-design-award-301511473.html) in 2022.

Although iSyncWave combines many functions in addition to its design, there were many challenges to its device design.

> The most difficult part was the device design. We wanted to make sure that the electrodes were placed in close contact with the correct positions on the scalp. **We needed the device to automatically fit** along the shape of each individual's head.

&nbsp;

Hayato, the author of the article, actually wore the device at CES2022 and felt the device automatically fitting to the shape of his head. Therefore, the brain waves displayed in real time contained relatively low noise.

![At the booth on CES2022, measuring brain waves and other biometrics data](https://neurotechjp.com/img/seung-imedisync/ces-2022.png)
_At the booth on CES2022, measuring brain waves and other biometrics data_

&nbsp;

## Looking to expand overseas

CES attracts visitors from all over the world in a variety of industry domains. Therefore, companies that exhibit at the event may be able to attract clients from outside their home countries.

&nbsp;

iMediSync is no exception. Thanks in part to the attention-grabbing demonstration, **the company has received business offers for joint development and service purchases** from many companies in Europe, the United States, Australia, and other countries, not limited to Asian countries. They are planning to expand overseas in the future.

The company also received the approval of pre-market clearance (510k) from the FDA last month to sell its medical devices in the US. As a result, the company's devices will soon be distributed in the United States. The company is also planning to apply for a medical device cetification in Japan.

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this article, we interviewed Seung-Wan Kang, CEO of iMediSync, about the company's path to developing the services it offers.

The company is on the right track, but they faced their fair share of tough decisions and challenges to get there. This is why the company is now able to offer their innovative devices and platforms.

The company's future development, as it looks to expand overseas, will also be interesting to watch.

```

```


About 2,300 companies exhibited at the world's largest technology event CES2022, including many neurotech companies. One of the exhibitors attracted a great deal of attention with their demonstration of their unique EEG device 'iSyncWave'. The company is iMediSync. We interviewed Seung-Wan Kang, CEO of iMediSync, about the company's technology behind the scenes and its future prospects.

All-in-one device for EEG measurement and LED stimulation iMediSync | Seung-Wan Kang


&nbsp;

[Neurotech Analytics](https://www.neurotech.com/) surveys 200 selected neurotech companies from around the world. Among the 200 companies listed in the report, only one spawns from Japan. That company is [MELTIN MMI](https://www.meltin.jp/).

&nbsp;

Founded in 2013, MELTIN is [a Japanese cyborg venture that has made a name for itself around the world](https://finders.me/articles.php?id=1176), and is planning to create a new market for [robotic neurorehabilitation devices for the hand](https://www.meltin.jp/en/products/medical/finger-rehabilitation/) by the end of 2022.

In this interview, we talked to [Masahiro "Mark" Kasuya](https://www.linkedin.com/in/masahiro-kasuya-02970349/), CEO of MELTIN, about his ambitions in life, experience founding MELTIN, and thoughts regarding the future of his work including space exploration.

&nbsp;

## It all stems from the desire to understand everything in this universe

Born in Saitama, Japan, in 1988, Mark has been aware of the limits of humanity since the age of three. At the **early age of ten, he saw potential in combining the fields of medicine and engineering**.

> Some of my earliest thoughts included questions like, why does this world exist? Why do I exist? Or rather, what is this world?
> Since we did not have the Internet at that time, I read illustrated books and found that the earth seemed to be in the universe.
> And **apparently, the universe is infinite**. I thought to myself, **how could I possibly understand something infinite?**
> What should I do? The answer I came to was that **I should live long enough to figure out the universe, and have high brain performance to figure out the universe.**

&nbsp;

At 14, Mark had already begun researching cyborg technology.

> In junior high, I wanted to experiment using invasive electrodes, but after some research and upon reaching high school, realized that **invasive technologies are hurdled with ample ethical and technical considerations.**

&nbsp;

He then entered the School of Science and Engineering at Waseda University with the goal of practical application. In graduate school, he majored in Bioscience and Biotechnology at the Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering. During his time as a student, **he received numerous awards for his development of powered suits, prosthetic hands, and robots.**

&nbsp;

Why did Mark see the potential in the fusion of medicine and engineering and why did he focus on EMG?

> Although I would have liked to get signals directly from the brain, **I would have to verify that the electrodes are working correctly, and justify that the signals read from these electrodes are not noise but actually spawning from the brain. By starting with EMG, I can concentrate on the analysis and algorithms with decent confidence that the signals are being obtained correctly.**

> When tackling human augmentation, there are high technical and ethical hurdles that you must overcome.
> Considering this, we started with reliable EMG signals for medical applications.

&nbsp;

## The Founding of MELTIN and the Impact of MELTANT-α

In 2011, Mark received the Robotics Society of Japan's Research Encouragement Award, given to researchers under 35 years old who have made significant contributions to the field of robotics. **He went on to found MELTIN with the aim of commercializing cyborg technology in 2013.**

After completing his graduate studies, he was a JSPS Research Fellow, and in 2016, he received his PhD in robotics and artificial intelligence engineering from the University of Electro-Communications, Graduate School of Information Science and Engineering, Intelligent Machinery Engineering.

&nbsp;

In the spring of 2018, he presented a concept model of an avatar robot using cyborg technology, MELTANT-α, which attracted a great deal of attention worldwide.

[![Meltant alpha](https://neurotechjp.com/img/kasuya-meltin/meltant-alpha.jpg)](https://youtu.be/ux10tNwYtqk)
_Video： Meltant alpha_

&nbsp;

“[MELTANT-α](https://www.meltin.jp/en/technology/)" is a cyborg prototype developed by MELTIN.

What were the difficulties in the development of MELTANT-α?

> Since avatars such as MELTANT are humanoid robots, **they can be controlled by sensing their own movements using motion capture, gloves,** etc., without the need to use biometric signals or other difficult technologies. This also makes it easier to enter the market for industrial applications. So MELTANT basically does not use biometric signals.

> However, when controlling a component that cannot be controlled by your organs, such as a third hard, biometric signals are key.

[![3rd arm test](https://neurotechjp.com/img/kasuya-meltin/3rd-arm-test.jpg)](https://youtu.be/xu3q_XM1DUA)
_Video： 3rd arm test_

&nbsp;

## Neurorehabilitation to establish biosignal technology

In October 2021, a prototype of MELTIN's new product, ["a robotic neurorehabilitation device for the hand](https://www.meltin.jp/en/products/medical/finger-rehabilitation/)" was completed. **Clinical research is currently underway at Juntendo University, with an aim to commercialize** within 2022.

&nbsp;

Neurorehabilitation is a rehabilitation method based on neuroscience that has been gaining attention over the past couple of years. In brief, Neurorehabilitation promotes the reconstruction of the brain's motor function circuitry by utilizing the brain's plasticity to perform assisted movements in sync with motor intentions. This hastens recovery for patients who have suffered some form of damage to motor-related areas of the brain, such as a stroke, with symptoms of physical paralysis or reduced motor function. Companies researching and developing similar products include [myomo](https://myomo.com/), [Tyromotion](https://tyromotion.com/en), and [connect](https://connect-technology.jp/).

![neurorehabilitation 1](https://www.meltin.jp/cms/wp-content/themes/meltin/assets/images/products/medical/finger-rehabilitation/qa--02.jpg)

&nbsp;

What do you see as the biggest technological challenge in this area in the future? Mark claims that the key is obviously in analysis techniques but even more so in the **interactive interface**.

> The output alone is less meaningful than providing direct feedback to the user. Creating this feedback loop is essential, and the neurorehabilitation device we are developing incorporates just that.

> As a timeline for the 2020s, we hope to create two separate pillars:
> **(1) the medical industry** for bio-signals and
> **(2) the avatar industry** for the physical body.
> From 2030s, we will integrate biometric signals and avatars, and from 2040s, we will commoditize the integrated products while preparing the legal framework.

&nbsp;

He also envisions entering the space industry in the 2040s. Mark's vision is on an extraterrestrial scale, but first, what are some of the difficulties he faces in developing his business on a global scale?

> In the US market, MELTIN would need to sell equipment to various insurance companies, bringing marketing and sales costs up. Japan, however, has universal health insurance, making the model much simpler.
> With this in mind, we intend to enter the market globally, taking into account the characteristics of each country.

![neurorehabilitation 2](https://www.meltin.jp/cms/wp-content/themes/meltin/assets/images/products/medical/finger-rehabilitation/qa--03.jpg)

&nbsp;

## Cyborg Technology is Infrastructure: Neurotech’s Killer Use Case

What is the use case Mark personally would like to use when cyborg technology becomes a reality?

> For me personally, the best use case would be space exploration.
> There is no way to exceed the speed of communication or the speed of light. I would disperse my consciousness, copy it, put it on an avatar, fly around the stars, and then collect it somewhere to synchronize.
> I believe that is could be one way to unravel the universe.

> But consider it in terms of civilization and human society, **I don't think there is a killer app for cyborg technology, rather, I consider it infrastructure.**
> For example, what is the killer app for the Internet? There is no such thing as a "killer app" for the Internet anymore.
> I think cyborg technology is the same. The difference being that the Internet is only in cyberspace, whereas **cyborg technology can be an infrastructure for everything, including the physical realm.**

&nbsp;

He also gave his unique perspective on the universe as an extension of cyberspace through VR today.

> There is a lot of hype around building a civilization in VR space, but it will likely be a space known to humans.
> Of course algorithms can create experiences that are novel to humans in some way, but I think there is a limit because those exact algorithms are created by humans.
> MELTIN embodies that sense of reality that comes with a physical body.


[![The vision of meltin](https://neurotechjp.com/img/kasuya-meltin/vision.jpg)](https://youtu.be/OrUdzZKJ50o)
_動画： The vision of Meltin_

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

We had the opportunity of hearing from Masahiro ”Mark" Kasuya of MELTIN about the fundamentals to the future of the company. They are headed full-speed towards approval for their medical neurorehabilitation device. Alongside their development of the Avatar products, the company has also supposedly started iterating on their neurorehabilitation devices. As Japan’s leader in neurotechnology, we hope to hear and see more exciting developments coming out of MELTIN.

Meanwhile, the company is also looking to expand into markets outside of Japan, those interested can contact them [here](https://www.meltin.jp/en/contact/#inquiry).


In this interview, we talked to Masahiro Kasuya, CEO of MELTIN MMI, about his life's ambitions, from the founding of MELTIN MMI to the current difficulties he has faced, and the future space exploration he is aiming for.

Unleashing Human Creativity with Cyborg Technology, MELTIN MMI | Masahiro Kasuya(Mark)


&nbsp;

BCI (Brain-Computer Interface) companies around the world are developing devices for a variety of applications.

Although BCIs are best known for device control and medical purposes, more companies are developing BCIs for education, sports, and other areas more familiar to an average consumer.

![BCI2022 landscape](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-bci-gadget-reviews/bci-landscape-en.jpg)
_Image: BCI landscape 2022_

&nbsp;

In particular, the number of companies offering non-invasive BCI has increased over the years, and **large companies are acquiring non-invasive BCI startups**. In March, the news that **[Snap acquired non-invasive BCI startup NextMind](https://newsroom.snap.com/welcome-nextmind/)** may have surprised many.

&nbsp;

NeurotechJP has [previously introduced 5 featured non-invasive BCI startups](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-non-invasive-bci/), but **many devices are beginning to trend towards becoming more friendly to general consumers. Many of these devices also house high functionality at a relatively low-cost, garnering the attention of experts and consumers.**

&nbsp;

If you’ve ever asked the question, ”I'd like to use a BCI to analyze brain data, but don't know which one to purchase,” this article introduces five consumer BCIs that are noteworthy for developers who want to work with brain activity data.

&nbsp;

## Affordable BCI Major Players Overall View

![Affordable-BCI-main-players--competitive-advantage](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-bci-gadget-reviews/affordable-bcis-en.jpg)
_Image: Affordable BCI major players | Competitive advantages_

We introduced the BCI landscape at the beginning of this article, and the figure above picks out the major non-invasive BCI players **whose devices can be purchased** and summarizes their competitive advantages on the axes of **price range** and **intended use**.

\*While some companies may have different prices for the devices they offer, they are mapped based on the average price of the device.

&nbsp;

This article will review the following five featured devices.

- Muse
- Emotiv
- OpenBCI
- Neurosky
- Neurosity

&nbsp;

## [Muse](https://choosemuse.com/)

![Muse2](https://choosemuse.com/app/uploads/2018/10/BlogCTA_Muse2_Harley-Oliver.jpg)
_Image：Muse2_

| Company            | Interaxon |
| ------------------ | --------- |
| Year of foundation | 2007      |
| Total funding      | $30.4M    |
| Country            | Canada    |

&nbsp;

Muse is a device that measures EEG (electroencephalogram) and heart rate, and when used in conjunction with a unique mobile app, can improve meditation and sleep quality.

There are two products offered, with the following differences:

&nbsp;

### Products

[Muse 2](https://choosemuse.com/muse-2/)

| Price              | $250                                            |
| ------------------ | ----------------------------------------------- |
| Channels           | 4 channels(TP9, TP10, AF7, AF8) [Dry]           |
| Key features       | ・EEG measurements ・Meditation session(in-app) |
| Access to raw data | Yes                                             |

&nbsp;

[Muse S](https://choosemuse.com/muse-s/)

| Price              | $400                                                                    |
| ------------------ | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Channels           | 4 channels(TP9, TP10, AF7, AF8) [Dry]                                   |
| Key features       | ・EEG measurements ・Meditation session(in-app) ・Sleep session(in-app) |
| Access to raw data | Yes                                                                     |

&nbsp;

### Pros

- Enough channels to measure the frontal lobes.
- Inexpensive and cost-effective.
- The library and SDK for data acquisition and processing are well-developed.

&nbsp;

### Cons

- Measurement accuracy is poor and noise is often present.

&nbsp;

### Resources

- Official [SDK](https://sites.google.com/a/interaxon.ca/muse-developer-site/sdk-setup)
- [LSL library](https://github.com/alexandrebarachant/muse-lsl)
- Tutorial：
  - [EEG-notebook](https://neurotechx.github.io/eeg-notebooks/)
  - [Neurotech-berkeley](https://github.com/neurotech-berkeley/muse-workshops)
- [Brainflow Muse](https://brainflow.readthedocs.io/en/stable/SupportedBoards.html#muse)

&nbsp;

## [Emotiv](https://www.emotiv.com/)

![Image：Emotiv EpocX](https://d2z0k1elb7rxgj.cloudfront.net/uploads/2020/02/FB-Epoc-X-share-link-1.png)

_Image：Emotiv EpocX_

| Company            | Emotiv              |
| ------------------ | ------------------- |
| Year of foundation | 2011                |
| Total funding      | $120K               |
| Country            | San Francisco, U.S. |

&nbsp;

Emotiv is a startup that offers a number of EEG devices and applications for research and development.

There are three main types of devices offered.

&nbsp;

### Products

[Emotiv Insight](https://www.emotiv.com/insight/)

| Price              | $500                               |
| ------------------ | ---------------------------------- |
| Channels           | 5 channels [Semi-dry]              |
| Key features       | ・EEG measurements                 |
| Access to raw data | Yes (Need to subscribe Emotiv Pro) |

&nbsp;

[Emotiv Epoc-X](https://www.emotiv.com/epoc-x/)

| Price              | $850                               |
| ------------------ | ---------------------------------- |
| Channels           | 14 channels [Semi-dry]             |
| Key features       | ・EEG measurements                 |
| Access to raw data | Yes (Need to subscribe Emotiv Pro) |

&nbsp;

[Emotiv Epoc-Flex](https://www.emotiv.com/epoc-flex/)

| Price              | $1699+                             |
| ------------------ | ---------------------------------- |
| Channels           | Up to 32 channels                  |
| Key features       | ・EEG measurements                 |
| Access to raw data | Yes (Need to subscribe Emotiv Pro) |

&nbsp;

### Pros

- By installing the free software service called [Emotiv Launcher](https://www.emotiv.com/emotiv-launcher/), you can immediately try out the BCI applications offered by Emotiv.

&nbsp;

### Cons

- Requires Emotiv Pro to access raw data, which is expensive (cheaper for students).

\*Emotiv Pro

- Standard: $99/mo
- Student: $29/mo

&nbsp;

### Resources

- [Emotiv Pro Doc](https://emotiv.gitbook.io/emotivpro-v3/)
- [LSL library](https://github.com/Emotiv/labstreaminglayer)

&nbsp;

## OpenBCI

![Image：OpenBCi “Mark IV”](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-bci-gadget-reviews/open-bci.jpg)
_Image：OpenBCi “Mark IV”_

| Company            | OpenBCI        |
| ------------------ | -------------- |
| Year of foundation | 2014           |
| Total funding      | N/A            |
| Country            | New York, U.S. |

&nbsp;

OpenBCI provides devices that can acquire all kinds of biological signals, not only EEG. The company also provides its own [OpenBCI GUI](https://openbci.com/downloads) for real-time EEG monitoring.

The company offers the following types of EEG devices, but you also need to purchase a board to acquire EEG signals and transmit them to your PC. ([Cyton Board](https://shop.openbci.com/products/cyton-biosensing-board-8-channel?variant=38958638542))

&nbsp;

### Product

[Ultracortex “Mark IV” EEG Headset](https://shop.openbci.com/collections/frontpage/products/ultracortex-mark-iv?variant=23280742211)

| Price              | $1149(Max)                                               |
| ------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------- |
| Channels           | Up to 16 channels                                        |
| Key features       | ・EEG measurements ・35 locations along the 10-20 system |
| Access to raw data | Yes                                                      |

&nbsp;

[EEG Electrode Cap Kit](https://shop.openbci.com/products/openbci-eeg-electrocap?variant=16456881766472)

| Price              | $799(Max)          |
| ------------------ | ------------------ |
| Channels           | 21 channels        |
| Key features       | ・EEG measurements |
| Access to raw data | Yes                |

&nbsp;

### Pros

- "Mark IV" can be customized with 16 electrodes in 10-20 system preferred locations to meet the need of many applications.

&nbsp;

### Cons

- The Cyton Board and other boards need to be purchased alongside electrodes and other components, resulting in a cost of $1k~$2k.
- Each part is also expensive, so replacing parts can be a hurdle.

  &nbsp;

### Resources

- [OpenBCI GUI](https://openbci.com/downloads)
- [OpenBCI Doc](https://docs.openbci.com/)
- [Brainflow OpenBCI](https://brainflow.readthedocs.io/en/stable/SupportedBoards.html#openbci)

&nbsp;

## [NeuroSky](http://neurosky.com/)

![Image：NeuroSky](https://img20.shop-pro.jp/PA01194/667/product/103760419_o1.jpg?cmsp_timestamp=20160623162322)
_Image：NeuroSky_

| Company            | NeuroSky      |
| ------------------ | ------------- |
| Year of foundation | 2004          |
| Total funding      | N/A           |
| Country            | San Jose U.S. |

&nbsp;

NeuroSky not only offers [EEG devices](https://store.neurosky.com/), which can be purchased starting at $100 for consumers, but will also provide SDK kits for developers free of charge. The company is also in the business of selling chip infrastructure which is NeuroSky's core technology.

NeuroSky has been a pioneer in the BCI industry, and [NeurotechJP was able to interview its CEO, Stanley](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/yang-neurosky/).

&nbsp;

### Products

[MindWave Mobile2](https://www.neurosky.jp/mindwave-mobile2/)

| Price              | $110                     |
| ------------------ | ------------------------ |
| Channels           | 1 channel (Frontal lobe) |
| Key features       | ・EEG measurements       |
| Access to raw data | Yes                      |

&nbsp;

### Pros

- Low cost
- Many SDKs and OSS to hack NeuroSky.

&nbsp;

### Cons

- There is only one channel, limiting the range of possible applications. (e.g., alpha wave acquisition)

&nbsp;

### Resources

- [Official SDK doc](https://developer.neurosky.com/docs/doku.php)
- [Communication Socket library](https://github.com/afiedler/node-thinkgear-sockets)

&nbsp;

## [Neurosity](https://neurosity.co/)

![Image：Neurosity “CROWN”](https://www.divergenceneuro.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/crown-back-1024x723.jpg)
_Image：Neurosity “CROWN”_

| Company            | Neurosity      |
| ------------------ | -------------- |
| Year of foundation | 2018           |
| Total funding      | N/A            |
| Country            | New York, U.S. |

&nbsp;

Neurosity offers a proprietary BCI "Crown" with excellent design and processing power and a developer SDK, which is widely used by developers who want to try brainwave control. [NeurotechJP interviewed Alex, the CTO and co-founder of Neurosity](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/castillo-neurosity/), and asked him about the company's path to developing BCI.

&nbsp;

### Products

[Crown](https://neurosity.co/tech-specs)

| Price              | $1000                                           |
| ------------------ | ----------------------------------------------- |
| Channels           | 8 channels (CP3, C3, F5, PO3, PO4, F6, C4, CP4) |
| Key features       | ・EEG measurements ・Focus session in app       |
| Access to raw data | Yes                                             |

&nbsp;

### Pros

- Extensive developer SDK, reducing the hurdles for BCI application development.
- The device has CPU in itself, so you can try to implement data saving, background processing, and so on.

&nbsp;

### Cons

- None so far

&nbsp;

### Resources

- [Brainflow Neurosity](https://brainflow.readthedocs.io/en/stable/SupportedBoards.html#neurosity)
- [Official SDK doc](https://docs.neurosity.co/docs/reference/classes/notion)

&nbsp;

## By use

**For beginners who have no experience with EEG data analysis, we recommend one of the low cost devices from Muse or Neurosky.**

**For those with experience in EEG analysis, the Emotiv or OpenBCI products offers richer data and higher versatility.**

**For those wanting to develop a full stack BCI application (mobile/web), we recommend the Neurosity Crown.**

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this article, we covered five non-invasive BCI companies and their products, highlighting some of their advantages and disadvantages. These are purely based on the opinion of NeurotechJP and is in no way an exhaustive list of pros and cons.

&nbsp;

Every device listed in this article is much more affordable than traditional research grade devices and we encourage those who are interested in tinkering with neural data to give these options a shot.

&nbsp;

Alongside the development of killer applications of BCIs, the industry must continue to reach a wider audience through more affordable and friendly devices. Like we see in the devices showcased in this article, BCIs that have high functionality and high versatility will likely push BCIs towards becoming more mainstream.


This article introduces five consumer BCIs that are noteworthy for developers who want to work with brain activity data

Consumer BCI Review: 5 EEG Headsets for Developers


&nbsp;

The world of neurotech has seen many research institutes develop Brain Computer Interfaces (BCIs) to restore movement or speech like [Chang Lab at the University of California, San Francisco.](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/david-chang-lab/) A team at the University of Washington created the first direct brain to brain BCI.

&nbsp;

[Rajesh Rao](https://www.rajeshpnrao.com/), Professor of [Computer Science and Engineering](https://www.cs.washington.edu/) and [Electrical and Computer Engineering](https://www.ece.uw.edu/) at the University of Washington and author of [Brain Computer Interfacing: An Introduction](http://bci.cs.washington.edu/), leads the [Center for Neurotechnology](https://centerforneurotech.uw.edu/) and [Neural Systems Lab](https://neural.cs.washington.edu/) where they conduct research at the intersection of the brain and AI. We interviewed Dr. Rao about his path to neurotech, BrainNet, and the future of neurotech.

&nbsp;

## Background: A Sci-Fi Inspiration

Similar to many, Dr. Rao spent his childhood Sundays watching and reading Science Fiction literature and TV shows like Star Trek. **Showcasing many far-fetched technologies, Star Trek inspired Dr. Rao to ask the crucial question:**

> Is it really just science **fiction** or is it possible?

&nbsp;

After excelling in high school science, Dr. Rao first experienced scientific research at the University of Maryland, College Park. He then accepted an academic scholarship to attend Angelo State University in Texas where he studied Computer Science, Mathematics, and Physics.

&nbsp;

He would go on to complete his M.S. and Ph.D. at the University of Rochester where he began to combine his interests in computers and brain through Computer Vision; a field of computer science and AI that conducts video analysis through various machine learning algorithms. He would then go on to begin neuroscience work during his postdoc.

&nbsp;

In 2000, Dr. Rao opened his lab in the University of Washington at the intersection of AI, machine learning, and computational neuroscience.

&nbsp;

## BrainNet: Pioneering Brain to Brain Communication

In 2013, Dr. Rao’s team started a series of experiments to communicate directly between brains. **BCIs have been used extensively for control of devices and robots but Dr. Rao asked whether it was possible to send a control signal to a human brain.**

> Can two brains collborate directly, where one is sensing, the other is controlling?

&nbsp;

[The first study](https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0111332) was set up with a sender wearing an EEG and a receiver under a TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) device on opposite sides of the University of Washington campus. The sender would use motor imagery, decoding the brain signals of imagining moving a hand, which would be relayed over the internet, across campus, to the TMS device which would stimulate the receiver’s region of motor cortex responsible for moving the hand, resulting in a keyboard press that was not directly controlled by the receiver.

![BrainNet with EEG cap](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/f0c175_38b41c4d33a64c0682f42088fdc34517~mv2_d_2395_1348_s_2.jpg/v1/crop/x_75,y_0,w_2320,h_1348/fill/w_720,h_406,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/EEG-RR.jpg)
_Caption: Dr. Rao as the sender in the first iteration of BrainNet. He is wearing an EEG cap_

&nbsp;

[**The second iteration**](https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0137303) **featured conscious decision making in the communication flow.** A 20 Questions game was played, where the sender would think of an object and the receiver would ask questions (explicitly) and the sender would answer yes or no to that question through stimulation to the visual cortex.

> We played a 20 Questions game where I think of an object and you repeatedly ask me yes or no questions.
> The person will eventually figure out that I was thinking of a truck only through brain to brain interaction.

&nbsp;

![BrainNet with yes/no experiement](https://uw-s3-cdn.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/07/01111515/BrainNet_web006-750x500.jpg)
_Caption: The sender is pictured here with an EEG, who will send “yes” or “no” by looking at the respective flashing LED which evokes a steady-state visually evoked potential (SSVEP)_

**Then [in 2019, the group increased the communication to three people — two senders and one receiver — to play a Tetris game.](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-41895-7) The idea was to simulate a social network, where one of the two senders is a 'bad actor' that sends unreliable information.**

&nbsp;

The receiver would be placed in front of the Tetris game, but without vision of the bottom layer. The senders saw the entire Tetris grid, but did not have direct control of the block, and thus would send a signal to “rotate” the block. One of the two sender’s signals would include noise that simulated the “bad actor.

![Tetris](https://uw-s3-cdn.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/07/01110652/Game_Figure2.jpg)
_Caption. Receiver does not see the bottom row where the block should fit (left column) while the sender sees the entire board but does not possess control of the block._

&nbsp;

**The series of studies was a proof of concept for collaboration through brain to brain communication.**

&nbsp;

Dr. Rao explained that the second and third iterations of the studies included a decision-making process since the first iteration would result in a “brain in a box” type of agent, where the receiver does not consciously process the information being conveyed.

&nbsp;

## So, why BrainNet?

With such a futuristic concept like direct brain to brain communication, it may not be intuitive what the application of this could be.

&nbsp;

There are clearly limitations with the current technology; EEG is limited in bandwidth and TMS is a bulky device not suited for applications outside of the lab. However, in a future where the technology matures to a point where we can send and receive high resolution information between brains, what can we do?

> We use language [to communicate], and it has its benefits and disadvantages.
> There's a finite number of words, and there's going to be limitations to the person's capacity to express their knowledge.
> How can we remove that bottleneck?

**Language is inherently a bottleneck in communication requiring encoding (thought to language) and decoding (language to thought). BrainNet and direct brain to brain communication, given the signal resolution improves significantly, could reduce the friction of language.**

&nbsp;

Another application of brain to brain BCIs could be better abstract communication in settings like school, sports, and therapy.

> If you can build a nice mapping between one person to another person's brain, you could have faster learning.
> A therapist could guide rehabilitation in another person's brain in a particular way.

&nbsp;

Another futuristic application would be to transfer knowledge directly like in the Matrix.

> Can I download Kung Fu into my brain?
> You cannot directly download it and expect it to work, you'll have to do a lot of practice after you've downloaded it, but it may be possible to download it and have a good initial starting point.

![matrix](https://neurotechjp.com/img/rao-uw/matrix.png)
_Caption: Interface from The Matrix (1999) where Neo “downloads” Kung Fu. Link to clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UUFu8zjRxE_

&nbsp;

Finally, Dr. Rao points out that **combining brains could improve human creativity by putting together multiple brains, each bringing a unique perspective to a problem.**

> Imagine if you can directly [collaborate] by harnessing brains direclty. **The creativity of the human condition may be amplified and maybe we'll come up with solutions to some of the harder problems that a single mind may not be able to solve.**
> If you put 100 minds together, perhaps that can solve a very hard problem that, because of our neural real estate limitations, we cannot solve.

&nbsp;

This very futuristic perspective reflects Dr. Rao’s inspiration in science fiction. As a leader in this field, he could be the one to actuate brain to brain communication in the near future.

&nbsp;

Dr. Rao’s lab is currently pursuing the idea of brain co-processors, where decoding of brain activity is coupled with encoding.

> We are calling it a co-processor because it will help humans process information alongside the brain. **You can think of it as artificial neural networks talking to biological neural networks.**

&nbsp;

**This co-processing would potentially improve various brain capacities such as bridging brain regions after a stroke, or healing brain regions through adaptive stimulation.** [This relates to the statement Elon Musk made about a “tertiary [cortical] layer” regarding the possible use of Neuralink.](https://www.inverse.com/article/60897-elon-musk-says-neuralink-could-bring-a-i-superintelligence-to-the-brain)

&nbsp;

Dr. Rao also touched on the important idea of 'explainable AI'. **Neural networks are being used in many applications of AI, but when the algorithm fails we will not understand why it failed.** When dealing with highly-involved applications like self-driving cars and BCIs these mistakes can be detrimental.

> If you don't understand the brain, at some point, you're not going to understand the behavior of both the brain and the interface.

&nbsp;

This parallel work between AI, Neuroscience, and BCIs speaks to the state of AI and neuroscience.

> Once you understand how the brain works, it makes it easier to also interface with the brain. **Instead of using a blackbox AI interface of the brain, we can understand what happens when you stimulate the brain.**

&nbsp;

## The future of BCIs: Speculation from a world-class researcher

We asked Dr. Rao how neurotech will advance both in terms of applications and technology.

&nbsp;

**He explained that neurotech will likely follow a similar trajectory as plastic surgery.** In the 1950s and 1960s, plastic surgery was mainly used for medical treatment for cancer patients. However, as the technology developed and the risk of surgery dropped, plastic surgery has become a routine treatment for many.

> I think in the same way, we are in the phase where a lot of the neurotechnology is being developed for medical purposes. And that's exactly where it needs to be.

&nbsp;

Past the technologies being developed with a medicinal purpose, Dr. Rao explains that the main application will be in augmentation, similar to commercial plastic surgery.

> Where the technology goes beyond medical uses in the future, we are going to see commercial applications that have to do with augmentation.

&nbsp;

**But what exactly does it mean to augment the human brain?**

&nbsp;

Dr. Rao explains that augmentation has been happening since the beginning of humanity where the first “cave people” picked up a rock to use as a tool. In more contemporary contexts, the smartphone and the internet are augmentations to communication and information retrieval.

> If you think of that progression, neurotechnology is just a natural next step, where we are augmenting not just our physical capacity, but also our brain or mental capacities.

&nbsp;

**Augmentation could come in many forms including faster information retrieval and acquisition. Instead of accessing information through our sensory organs, the direct access through the brain would significantly increase speeds and maybe even how we interact with the world.**

&nbsp;

Dr. Rao also commented on the current state of commercial neurotech with advancements from Meta’s CTRL-Labs, Neuralink, and Kernel.

He mentions the prospects within neurotechnologies for accelerating learning and improving attention where some companies are looking into tDCS and alternate current stimulation devices to speed up knowledge acquisition.

> You can almost draw parallels between some of these other kinds of augmentations. We've done it with drugs like caffeine, but this is a more direct interaction with the brain.

With other applications in the domain of gaming and sports, some companies are claiming that stimulation can improve reaction time or focus, but it remains debatable whether these effects are simply a placebo.

&nbsp;

## What will it take to get a ubiquitous BCI?

[As mentioned in the interview with Ryan Field from Kernel](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/ryan-kernel/), one of their big goals is to develop an everyday device for brain measurements. **With the rise of creatively designed EEG devices, many companies are investing into the prospect of a ubiquitous BCI: the iPhone of BCI.**

&nbsp;

We asked Dr. Rao about his opinions on the developments around non-invasive recording modalities like EEG.

He mentions that the lab works with EEG, but in constrained lab settings where artifacts are controlled to a minimum. **But when considering naturalistic settings where the user might be moving and talking, the EEG signal quality will likely fail.**

> There is an accuracy issue. The reliability is very questionable for EEG. For any kind of non-invasive technology, we have not seen a very reliable product in the market where it consistently performs to a high degree of accuracy and the recordings are really clean.

&nbsp;

He also mentions that innovators like Kernel, who developed a non-invasive device using time-domain fNIRS technology, will push the capabilities of non-invasive BCIs further.

> It's great that there are companies like Kernel and even Neuralink that are experimenting and coming up with new ways [of recording].
> We need more contributions from material scientists, physicists, other fields that come up with new ways of imaging the brain.

&nbsp;

## Invasive or Non-Invasive

Finally, in the pursuit of a ubiquitous BCI, we asked Dr. Rao regarding his speculations of whether invasive or non-invasive technologies will ultimately provide the killer application.

> That's a great question in terms of [whether invasive or non-invasive] will win. Ultimately there are going to be different applications [that] require different things.

&nbsp;

**With Dr. Rao’s explanation of risk-benefit, there may be a point where invasive implants become as ubiquitous as plastic surgery. With non-invasive technologies, rather than considering the risk, the question lies in the signal and whether it can provide any benefit.**

> To pick one, many people will probably bet on invasive technology being the one that will end up being the most reliable if they are able to bring down the cost and risk of surgery.

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

Huge thanks to Dr. Rajesh Rao of the University of Washington’s Neural Systems Lab and [Center for Neurotechnology](https://centerforneurotech.uw.edu/) for his time. The team at NeurotechJP learned a ton from this conversation regarding his cutting-edge research, as well as his visions about the neurotech field.

&nbsp;

Dr. Rao concluded the interview by reiterating the interdisciplinary nature of neurotech. **Aspiring neuroscientists and engineers should embrace the diversity and breadth of knowledge required to research or develop neurotechnologies while keeping in mind that collaboration is key.**

> It's okay to specialize in one particular field, you don't have to learn everything about the different fields because it's impossible to learn all the fields. Learn as much as you can about the others and be comfortable collaborating!

&nbsp;

Dr. Rao also authored 'Brain Computer Interfacing: An Introduction' which was introduced in **[5 Featured University Labs/Facilities in BCI](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/5-bci-labs-facilities/).**

Along with BrainNet and brain-to-brain communication, we are eager to hear more from Dr. Rao and the Neural Systems Lab.


We interviewed Dr. Rao about his path to neurotech, BrainNet, and the future of neurotech.

Direct Brain to Brain Communication and the Future of BCIs | Rajesh Rao


&nbsp;

Communities are essential to the development of science.

Neurotech is no exception, and a community of more than 18,000 participants in over 100 countries "[NeuroTechX](https://neurotechx.com/)" is facilitating its development. [NeurotechJP interviewed Morgan, the leader of the NeuroTechX SF chapter](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/morgan-neurotechsf/), to learn more about the front lines.

This time we interviewed [Yannick Roy](https://www.linkedin.com/in/yannick-roy-8aa5286/), founder of NeuroTechX, and [Bryan Jenkins](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanjenkins27/), a member of the NeuroTechX management team. In addition to the background of the establishment of the community, we also interviewed about the development of the science community and the methods used in its operation.

&nbsp;

## What is NeuroTechX？

![NeuroTechX logo](https://neurotechx.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/NTX_Logo-1.png)

[NeuroTechX](https://neurotechx.com/) is a **neurotech community** founded in 2015 by Yannick et al. NeuroTechX spans approximately **over 100 countries** and has more than 7,000 members on their Slack, and **more than 18,000** if you include members in local chapters.

As mentioned in the [5 Must-Read Learning Contents for Neurotech and BCI](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/5-learning-contents-bci/), NeuroTechX has three pillars; 1) Community, 2) Education, and 3) Professional Development.

&nbsp;

### ①[Community](https://neurotechx.com/community/)

![NeuroTechX Community](https://neurotechjp.com/img/yannick-neurotechx/neurotechx-1.jpg)
_Image: List of chapters (taken from website)_

In addition to the large Slack community, **each city (chapter) will host its own events, meetups, and hackathons in approximately 30 cities around the world**. Each chapter has its own leader, and the community is led by people at the forefront of the world, such as [Adam Molnar](https://www.linkedin.com/in/adammolnar1/), co-founder of Neurable, who is in charge of leading the Boston chapter.

&nbsp;

### ②[Education](http://learn.neurotechedu.com/)

![NeuroTechX Community](https://neurotechjp.com/img/yannick-neurotechx/neurotechx-2.jpg)
_Image: NeurotechEDU course list (taken from website)_

[**NeurotechEDU**](http://learn.neurotechedu.com/lessons/) offers implementation-specific educational content related to EEG and an introduction to neuroscience. In addition, there is a [blog](https://medium.com/neurotechx), [Webinar](https://neurotechx.com/webinars/), and [book ("The Neurotech Primer ")](https://neurotechx.com/primer/)], which is available to the public free of charge.

&nbsp;

### ③[Professional Development](https://neurotechx.com/find-a-job/)

![NeuroTechX Education](https://neurotechjp.com/img/yannick-neurotechx/neurotechx-3.jpg)

_Image: list of job boards (taken from website)_

NeuroTechX also offers Professional Development through **a [job board](https://neurotechx.com/find-a-job/) dedicated to neurotech companies**. Neuralink, Neurable, and other leading neurotech companies are recruit for various positions.

&nbsp;

## Community Background

Yannick, whom we interviewed this time, studied biomedical engineering and electrical engineering at McGill University and other universities before obtaining a PhD in psychophysics (including neuroscience) at the University of Montreal. Along with his research, he also worked as an engineer and was involved in several community foundations and project launches, including NeuroTechX.

&nbsp;

Yannick's passion was not only engineering, but also community building.
**"Rather than mastering engineering, I like to connect people with the same passion,"** he says, leading NeuroTechX with this philosophy.

> (Yannick)
> My contribution in the field of BCI, I don't think will be to create the best engineering solution or a breakthrough in the science. **But what I can do is to bring people together to work towards that bridge.**

&nbsp;

He did hint a potential return towards an engineering role in the future, but he believes his contributions towards the Neurotech community is currently best achieved through bringing talent and passion together.

As Yannick attended neurotech events and other events, he noticed a **lack of local community**. From that experience, he started building communities in **Montreal, Canada, and was encouraged to use those findings to establish communities in other cities**.

> (Yannick)
> I wanted to connect with other Neurotech enthusiasts but there was nothing in Montreal that I could participate in. So, I decided to create a community to get people together.
> The more I traveled and talked to people in the field, the more apparent it became that they were missing a local community.

&nbsp;

Starting with Montreal, Yannick explains that through conversation with other Neurotech enthusiasts, it quickly became apparent how desirable this community was for other cities. NeuroTechX, now a global initiative, originally did not have “worldwide aspirations.”

> (Yannick)
> Hopefully, I'll be in this space for the next 20 years, building community and bringing people together, to improve the field as much as I can.

&nbsp;

## What are the challenges of building and growing scientific communities?

NeuroTechX attracts more than 10,000 neurotech enthusiasts from all over the world and from a variety of professions. The job board is updated several times a day, and information is actively exchanged on slack. NeuroTechX has created a large scientific community in the field of neurotech, but how did it develop?

&nbsp;

Yannick himself used to be an engineer, and **NeuroTechX started out as a technology-oriented community**.

> (Yannick)
> At first, we were more technical, starting with mostly DIY hackers. As we evolved, NeuroTechX became a bit more business-oriented, through partnerships with other entities. We definitely aren't trying to lose our hacker and maker DNA, which is the core that NeuroTechX was built upon.

&nbsp;

As NeuroTechX expanded, **the members brought a wider range of backgrounds, interests and needs,** which made it increasingly difficult to maintain the community and its offerings.

> (Yannick)
> When you bring these people with different interests and purpose in the same room, **what do they talk about?** **Neurotech is the commonality but they all have different ambitions, goals, and interests. Which was not easy.**

&nbsp;

The diversity in expertise was also a big challenge for Yannick and NeuroTechX.

> (Yannick)
> We have high schoolers all the way up to the world's best researchers in some of the BCI areas. **How do you bring people in the same room where it's valuable for everybody?**

&nbsp;

## "Bottom-up" organization promotes a thriving community

NeuroTechX is not just a community. It simultaneously offers a number of services that have a significant impact on people interested in neurotech, such as educational content and recruiting, and each city has its own unique activities.

&nbsp;

How is the organization managed to help add value to every member with unique goals?

The answer, Yannick says, is **"bottom-up” organization.**

It is important to **listen to the community members and let them do what they want to do**.

> (Yannick)
> The vision of NeuroTechX since the inception was always to **be a bottom up organization**, trying to **fill the gap of what's missing in the ecosystem**. So the goal is not to do everything.

&nbsp;

One thing that was clearly missing was accessible neurotech events.

> (Yannick)
> The neurotech events were really scientific, with a few business focused ones. There weren't events for neurotech enthusiasts to talk about neurotech.

&nbsp;

NeuroTechX recognized this, and created events for neurotech enthusiasts to come together and chat about neurotech.

> (Yannick)
> The mindset of NeuroTechX is about **listening to the community, what is missing? Then as a community, we think about how we can come together and address that.**

&nbsp;

Because of its bottom-up approach, its future development is unknown.

Bryan said that as a steering group, they will be focusing on increasing interaction and engagement within the community.

> (Bryan)
> **Over the next couple of years, we'll be really focusing on strengthening community interaction, community engagement, and a sense of our community demographics.**

&nbsp;

Bryan also mentioned partnerships with other like-minded communities to partner with. Currently, NeuroTechX is planning to partner with [TransTech](https://transtechsocial.org/) to share job opportunities and skill development opportunities.

He also mentioned being in a spot where they can continue to support and grow other key initiatives like the student clubs competition, chapters, and content labs.

> (Bryan)
> I'd say while we are focused on what the industry needs and will need in the next five years, we're also wanting to make sure that those within our community feel supported and **have the opportunity that they need for skill development.**

![NeuroTechX Education](https://neurotechjp.com/img/yannick-neurotechx/neurotechx-4.jpg)
_Image: [Student Club](https://neurotechx.github.io/ntx-sc/#/) holds competitions sponsored by many companies (taken from the website)_.

&nbsp;

## NeuroTechX spans more than 100 countries; founder talks about notable countries and regions

With members from over 100 countries, NeuroTechX is arguably the largest global community in this area.

At the same time, the NeuroTechX management team, which has been observing the neurotech situation in various countries for several years, says that recently, **even countries outside of the United States and Europe are joining the Neurotech revolution.**

> (Yannick)
> The US and Europe are the leading market, and other countries are trying to catch up in terms of commercialization. **Austrailia** is a good example, with Synchron's research and development.

> (Bryan)
> In terms of communities, the **NeuroTechX India community is rapidly growing, with multiple companies spinning out of India** in the recent years. We've been able to support their community events, and its an exciting time where we are seeing acceleration happening at the bottom level that will help grow local Neurotech ecosystems.

&nbsp;

## Developing the industry through "community". What is the future of neurotech from a bird's eye view?

NeurotechJP has had the pleasure of asking [Neurosity's CTO Alex](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/castillo-neurosity/) and [Neurosky's CEO Stanley](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/yang-neurosky/), who are at the forefront of the consumer neurotech market, about the future of neurotech.

Unlike their "startup" counterparts who create products, Yannick has been leading the neurotech industry as a **"community" that supports and develops the industry.**

With a unique perspective, what does Yannick think about the future of neurotech?

> (Yannick)
> We don't have the killer application yet.

EEG has developed rapidly in the recent years, but Yannick believes that other modalities and form factors may be the key in delivering a killer neurotech device.

&nbsp;

First, he sees potential in **In-Ear EEG.**

> (Yannick)
> The new wave that I'm looking forward to see more innovation in is **in-ear or around the ear EEG devices**. One of the limiting factor of EEG devices is that no one wants to wear an EEG cap.

Yannick also expressed his excitement for **multimodal devices.**

> (Yannick)
> I think that we need to take all the enthusiasm from EEG and start to migrate it over to other modalities like fNIRS. My bet moving forward is on **bringing multiple recording modalities in the mix** rather than just trying to improve the EEG itself.

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

We had the pleasure of interviewing Yannick and Bryan, founders of NeuroTechX, which is building a huge scientific community in neurotech.

&nbsp;

In addition to neurotech, "Web3" and the "Metaverse" have been attracting attention in the past few years. One of the use cases is the new organizational "DAOs," and the demand for open science and science DAOs is also increasing.

The strategy for the establishment, formation, and growth of science communities that NeuroTechX has incorporated teaches future pioneers important lessons for new organizations.


This time we interviewed Yannick Roy, founder of NeuroTechX, and Bryan Jenkins, a member of the NeuroTechX management team. In addition to the background of the establishment of the community, we also interviewed about the development of the science community and the methods used in its operation.

Founding & growing the world's largest neurotech community 'NeuroTechX' | Yannick Roy


&nbsp;

The company leading the charge in non-invasive BCIs is [Kernel](https://www.kernel.com/). Developing at a remarkable pace, Kernel has reached incredible heights in terms of funding and technology. We interviewed [Ryan Field](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanmfield/), CTO of Kernel, about his thoughts on the development, current state, and future of non-invasive BCIs.

&nbsp;

## Making Brain Measurements Mainstream with Non-Invasive BCIs

As covered in a [previous article](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-non-invasive-bci/), Kernel was founded in 2016 by [Bryan Johnson](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanrjohnson/), who previously founded a fintech company called [Braintree](https://www.braintreepayments.com/), which acquired Venmo and was then sold to PayPal for $800 million. Bryan has personally invested $54 million in Kernel. In 2020, the company raised its Series C, **surpassing $100 million in total capital raised**.

![Kernel logo](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ryan-kernel/kernel-logo.jpg)
_Image: Kernel logo_

&nbsp;

Kernel, which now develops non-invasive BCIs at its core, used to explore invasive techniques; a huge pivot in terms of its core technology.

Its initial mission was to develop technology to both read and write to the brain, exploring invasive techniques involving implants and surgeries. However, after a few years of exploratory work with invasive techniques, Kernel revisited the larger mission of **making brain measurements mainstream for everyone to learn and use information about their brain to better their lives**. The company then pivoted to non-invasive techniques.

This pivot had several key advantages for Kernel. The first being reduced regulatory approvals; invasive techniques must be approved by the FDA involving long clinical trials. Non-invasive techniques would eliminate these hurdles, allowing Kernel to iterate faster on their technology. The other key advantage was that non-invasive techniques allowed Kernel to develop less localized recordings of the brain compared to invasive techniques that often require localized implants.

> Non-invasive techniques gave us the opportunity to **look at the whole brain**. Most implanted devices are highly localized and typically focused on restoring brain functions like movement or speech.
>
> By not limiting us to implants in a localized region, we're able to get a more complete picture of the brain which we think will lead to more applications and broader market use of neurotechnology.

&nbsp;

## The Crux of Non-Invasive BCIs, The Kernel Flow

Kernel built Flow, which is a multimodal BCI headset, but mainly houses technology called **[TD-fNIRS (Time Domain Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23747285/)**, the gold standard of optical measurement. [fNIRS](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Functional_near-infrared_spectroscopy) uses near-infrared light to record brain activity by measuring changes in the amount of oxygenation in the blood associated with neural activity in the brain. TD-based devices traditionally present impracticalities through its immobile and large form factor. In turn, these devices have the highest depth sensitivity and are capable of presenting highly accurate values of hemoglobin concentration and oxygenation.

![Flow](https://www.kernel.com/static/a72a3c3cb35c0bef323dea7318a4e1f1/8afe2/HeadSet2.png)
_Image: Flow_

&nbsp;

Kernel is currently accepting participants for [studies using its Flow headset]((https://www.kernel.com/participate)) in Los Angeles by signing up through the Kernel app (download [here](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/kernel-app/id1534622186)). NeurotechJP was able to participate and experience it firsthand. The demo can be viewed on YouTube from the link below.

[![Flow demo](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ryan-kernel/flow-demo-v2.jpg)](https://youtu.be/dTClMLKx8bk)
_Video: Flow demo experience_

&nbsp;

Besides Flow, Kernel initially was developing another headset named Flux, which used Optically-Pumped Magnetoencephalography, which detects the magnetics fields generated by the brain. The company is now fully focused on Flow, discontinuing development of Flux as it presented challenges in ubiquity.

> When Kernel switched from invasive to non-invasive techniques about four and a half years ago, the company looked at every technology that was out there: EEG, MEG, optical based, ultrasound. We ultimately settled on two candidates; one was the MEG system, which we called Kernel Flux, and one was the time domain fNIRS system called Kernel Flow.

&nbsp;

Many other startups developing non-invasive devices use EEG, but Kernel chose to tackle a difficult problem of getting robust time-domain recordings of fNIRS. Ryan says that fNIRS has been around for decades, but time-domain never developed into a widespread device even in research since the hardware is very challenging to get right. And Kernel faced this exact issue as they developed Flow.

> One of the most difficult things we had to overcome in developing Kernel Flow was that **we couldn't use any available hardware. We had to build our own custom integrated circuits and custom chips in order to enable time domain technology to scale**.

&nbsp;

Despite these challenges, Kernel successfully released Flow this past year. The device today can be connected to via a single USB-C cable with all of the electronics integrated into the headset.

&nbsp;

Considering the difficulty of getting an integrated time-domain system, we asked why the team at Kernel was able to achieve what research labs have yet to fully develop.

> I think Kernel's strength is the approach. **We were one of the first groups to approach the problem by looking at the full stack**.

&nbsp;

As mentioned above, Kernel had to develop new chips from the ground-up; something that seemed to be a daunting engineering task, may have been their biggest strength. By looking at everything from the lasers and photons from the brain to the machine learning and AI algorithms, the team designed every part of the technology with the full-stack in mind. This allowed them to tune each component, both hardware and software, to work in perfect synchrony.

> A lot of existing fNIRS companies that spun out of university labs typically have a specialty like hardware development. And they collaborate with other labs and companies to do experimental work or software, things they don't specialize in.
>
> We brought all that expertise in-house which **allows us to iterate really quickly** on our technology.

&nbsp;

Now, with newfound insights they are beginning to iterate on their technology with R&D underway for the next generation Flow.
> I think time-domain fNIRS is one of the best technologies for non-invasively measuring the brain with precision. For the technology that has enabled us to do that, **there is still a lot of room for improvement on our existing Kernel Flow**.

&nbsp;

## Kernel's Vision - The Path Towards its 2033 Goal

Kernel ambitiously envisions a world in which brain measurements are commonplace and Flow is a household staple; and their goal is to realize this by 2033. Considering that Flow is currently only available to research institutes, what is their plan to start business with general consumers?

&nbsp;

Ryan estimates that the earliest consumer-oriented products could be ready around 2024. Referring to the adoption of smartphones, he believes these early consumer devices will be the “early adopters” version, analogous to the Palm Pilot. These versions will not be the ubiquitous devices that Kernel is envisioning, rather the first of many iterations of consumer-facing BCIs.

&nbsp;

The brain is one of the most complex organs to understand in the human body, and Kernel recognizes that creating a robust device for consumers is far from trivial in terms of the science and technology. The biggest challenge is in creating a device that is able to capture reliable signals from the brain.

> **To make brain measurements mainstream, you need a solid scientific and technological foundation. The device needs to read signals that can be measured reliably every time**. It can't work 75% of the time.

&nbsp;

Flow is capable of high quality measurements of brain activity, but the device does not have the ability to stimulate (or “write”) to the brain which was part of the initial exploration with invasive techniques. Kernel sees stimulations as simply one method of brain intervention, but recognizes that the current challenge lies in measuring and quantifying the brain.

&nbsp;

Ryan says that stimulations are simply a modality to modify the brain — an intervention. These can range from direct stimulation with TMS, to chemical interventions with drugs, and even learning which takes more time. But the challenge now is not in exploring new interventions of the brain, but in understanding how current interventions affect the brain.

> **Kernel can become an interventions company at some point in the future**. But **we really believe that the most important thing to do now is to characterize interventions based on brain measurements.**

&nbsp;

## Collaborations in Research Lead to New Applications

Kernel previously hosted a program dubbed Flow 50 where fifty research institutes and companies could try out a Flow headset. Out of a hundred applications, Ryan and his team chose each project carefully with the hope that the program would contribute to neuroscience research but also further the applications of Flow and brain measurement devices.

> We chose projects that have **the potential to make meaningful contributions to society and the future of neuro-measurement**.

&nbsp;

Given the short application window of around two months for Flow 50, a hundred applications seems to reflect the high amount of interest and attention that Kernel Flow is getting from many research groups. Although the Flow 50 program is over, Kernel is moving swiftly to make the device available to more people.

&nbsp;

In addition to collaborating with research institutes through Flow 50, Kernel has also announced partnerships with two companies. One with [Cybin](https://cybin.com/), a company that focuses on the treatment of mental health with psychedelic molecules. The other with [Statespace](https://statespace.gg/), the publisher of [Aim Lab](https://aimlab.gg/), which aims to optimize performance in eSports and video games.

![Cybin-and-Kernel](https://www.kernel.com/static/be417d4d8f47953d691b931b598a01f4/5fc9a/61856ce7f69d07807d2e5eb8_Cybin_Kernel.png)
_Image: Cybin × Kernel_

&nbsp;

Kernel is interested in partnerships with companies and institutions that provide brain interventions. Providing precision measurements, partners can learn more about how their product might be affecting the brain through Kernel’s BCIs. Additionally, Ryan mentions mental health and gaming being specific applications that will benefit from Kernel’s brain measurement technology.

> We are interested in all application areas as long as it is a robust application of brain measurement.

&nbsp;

Kernel’s main focus thus far has been in product development, refining the technology behind Flow. Now, they aim to further expand the application of Flow through collaborations and partnerships with research institutes and companies.

&nbsp;

## Conclusions

We would like to extend our thanks to Ryan Field for his insights into Kernel’s history and their big plans to revolutionize the field of neurotech.

Utilizing non-invasive TD-fNIRS technology, Kernel envisions a world where BCIs will be as ubiquitous as the smartphone by 2033; a world in which everyone can improve their lives by understanding their own brains. With new insights from Ryan, it is no doubt that Kernel has plans moving forward so keep an eye out for exciting news!


We interviewed Ryan Field, CTO of Kernel, about his thoughts on the development, current state, and future of non-invasive BCIs.

Making brain measurements mainstream: Interview with CTO of Kernel | Ryan Field


&nbsp;

The emergence of Elon Musk’s [Neuralink](https://neuralink.com/) in 2017 sparked a burst of research and development in the world of neurotechnology, with **the market growing from $8.4B in 2018 to $13.3B in 2022 [(Neurotech Reports)](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-neurotechnology-market-2018-2022-largest-segment-is-currently-neuromodulation-followed-by-neuroprosthetics-and-neurosensing-300775578.html).** This boom in the neurotech market will no doubtedly inspire young engineers and scientists who want to join the battle at this scientific frontier.

&nbsp;

However, **the interdisciplinary nature of neurotech, combined with the relative youth of the neurotech field makes it difficult to know how best to prepare for a career in this field.** This article looks at the educational backgrounds of employees at ten neurotech companies to get a sense of which educational paths are most commonly seen in individuals who work in the neurotech field.

&nbsp;

## Collecting Data

To accumulate data on educational backgrounds of employees, we used LinkedIn’s “People” tab which shows a split of location, school, role, **education**, and skills.

![LinkedIn figure](https://neurotechjp.com/img/neurotech-education/figure1.jpg)
_Caption: The LinkedIn People page displays “What they studied” in this format. These numbers are based on the employee’s self-reported LinkedIn profiles._

&nbsp;

For this report, ten companies were chosen; a mix of invasive and non-invasive neurotech companies; all having more than 20 employees on LinkedIn.

- [Kernel](https://www.kernel.com/)
- [OpenBCI](https://openbci.com/)
- [Neuralink](https://neuralink.com/)
- [Synchron](https://synchron.com/)
- [Neurable](https://neurable.com/)
- [Paradromics](https://www.paradromics.com/)
- [NeuroSky](http://neurosky.com/)
- [EMOTIV](https://www.emotiv.com/)
- [Blackrock](https://blackrockneurotech.com/)
- [Cognixion](https://www.cognixion.com/)

Of the 10 companies, 8 of them have been introduced in our [5 featured startups in invasive BCI](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-invasive-bci/) and [5 featured startups in non-invasive BCI](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-non-invasive-bci/) articles.

&nbsp;

We categorized “What they studied”, with similar disciplines grouped together such as Computer Science and Computer Engineering. These 9 categories of educational backgrounds were most common among the ten companies’ employees.

- Computer Science (Computer Engineering, etc.)
- Electrical Engineering
- Bioengineering (Biomedical engineering, etc.)
- Neuroscience, Biology
- Mechanical Engineering (Robotics, etc.)
- Physics
- Business (Economics, Communications, Entrepreneurship, etc.)
- Psychology
- Mathematics
- Other

![Career table](https://neurotechjp.com/img/neurotech-education/figure2.png)
_Caption: Table of each company’s employees categorized by educational background. Data acquired from LinkedIn of Kernel, OpenBCI, Neuralink, Synchron, Neurable, Paradromics, NeuroSky, EMOTIV, BlackRock, Cognixion._

&nbsp;

Something to note is that these educational backgrounds are self-reported, and also may be incomplete as not all employees have an active and up-to-date LinkedIn profile. The data also does not reveal the level of degree (Bachelors, Masters, etc.).

&nbsp;

## Initial thoughts, which backgrounds are the most common?

Upon initial inspection of the data, it is clear that these companies are mostly comprised of employees who are scientists and engineers with **Computer Science topping all other educational backgrounds, and Electrical Engineering and Bioengineering following it.**

![Neurotech Employees By Education](https://neurotechjp.com/img/neurotech-education/figure3.png)
_Caption: Split of neurotech employees by educational background. Data acquired from LinkedIn._

&nbsp;

Though we see quite the number of engineers, the number of employees with backgrounds in Physics and Mathematics is interesting as well. These disciplines are not in direct relation to neurotech, but they serve as the foundation of many of the other disciplines including neuroscience and engineering.

&nbsp;

Another noteworthy observation is the surprisingly low number of neuroscience and biology backgrounds. The word neurotech is half comprised of “neuro”, but when creating devices to interface with the brain, the **hard skills that are acquired in engineering disciplines may be valued more by these companies.**

&nbsp;

## Non-invasive vs Invasive: Meeting the Technology’s Needs

![Neurotech Employees Non-invasive vs invasive companies](https://neurotechjp.com/img/neurotech-education/figure4.png)
_Caption: Split of neurotech employees by educational background, non-invasive vs invasive technology. Non-invasive companies (Kernel, OpenBCI, Neurable, NeuroSky, EMOTIV, Cognixion) had 239 employees in total. Invasive companies (Neuralink, Synchron, Paradromics, BlackRock) had 321 employees in total. Data acquired from LinkedIn._

&nbsp;

Scrutinizing the difference between companies building non-invasive and invasive technologies, there is a clear contrast in the skillsets that are valued between the two types of neurotech. **Although Computer Science was the dominant background among all ten companies, the non-invasive companies employ a significantly higher percentage of them compared to the invasive neurotech companies.**

&nbsp;

All six non-invasive companies have a fifth or more of their employees with Computer Science backgrounds, while the four invasive companies peak at 18% at Neuralink, with Paradromics having only 4% of its employees with a Computer Science background.

![Proportion of computer science backgrounds](https://neurotechjp.com/img/neurotech-education/figure5.png)
_Caption: Proportion of computer science backgrounds, **blue bars are non-invasive companies and orange bars are invasive companies**._

&nbsp;

As a hypothesis, the invasive neurotech companies may not require extensive emphasis on software interfaces compared to research, testing, and physical development of BCIs, especially accounting for the fact that most of these companies are building clinical BCIs (at least initially).

&nbsp;

In terms of **invasive technologies**, these companies have a **higher proportion of bioengineering, neuroscience and biology, and mechanical engineering backgrounds.** This may speak to the nature of invasive technologies requiring more scientific knowledge of the brain like neuroanatomy and neurobiology, and a different set of engineering skills (biomedical and mechanical) that may not be as relevant for less regulated non-invasive products.

&nbsp;

Another important point here is that **the proportion of employees with electrical engineering is comparable between the two types of companies.** This might be revealing the necessity of electrical engineers for any type of hardware interface for the brain.

&nbsp;

## A Deeper Dive: Each Company is Different

When looking closer at the split of backgrounds at each company, interesting patterns appear, revealing somewhat of the company culture.

&nbsp;

**“Training the market”** was a huge strategy discussed by [Stanley Yang of NeuroSky in a previous NeurotechJP article](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/yang-neurosky/). As pioneers of the consumer BCI company, NeuroSky focused on educating consumers about neurotech and its capabilities, leading to the establishment of the consumer BCI market. This was driven by marketing and clever strategies to increase the understanding of neurotech by the public, with one of NeuroSky’s products appealing to a familiar concept from Star Wars: the Force.

&nbsp;

With NeuroSky’s early focus to train the market, it is clear why the company has **8 employees with business backgrounds**, the highest proportion of all ten companies by far.

&nbsp;

**[Synchron](https://synchron.com/) is also an intriguing case in which the most common background is in bioengineering**. [Stentrode, Synchron’s core technology which won the BCI Award 2021,](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/bci-award-2021/) travels through the blood vessels to record and stimulate the brain. This approach is very unique compared to traditional invasive techniques that implant electrodes directly in the brain tissue and could be a reason why the skills acquired during a biomedical engineering education are important for Synchron.

&nbsp;

## So, what is the best educational background for Neurotech?

**The simple answer is to get an engineering education.** From a pure numbers standpoint, engineering backgrounds account for more than half of all employee backgrounds from our survey. Though not a causatory relationship, neurotech companies will always need engineers to build both hardware and software interfaces.

&nbsp;

Important to grasp is that education, especially the degree is rarely the dictator of skillsets, and other experiences such as independent projects, research, and internships can help develop skills outside of coursework.

&nbsp;

## Neuralink’s Philosophy

With neurotech’s interdisciplinary complexity, no single employee will have the education and experience to have the expertise to work on every aspect of the neurotech stack.

&nbsp;

Looking at the [Neuralink Software Engineering job listing](https://boards.greenhouse.io/neuralink/jobs/4414970003), there is an emphasis on being a “cross-discipline team member.”

> You are a cross-disciplinary team member. You are excited to work with and learn from software, mechanical, electrical, materials, biological engineers, and neuroscientists. You are comfortable communicating across teams.

The process is truly a **team effort,** only achievable with a **multitude of perspectives coming together at the intersection of neuroscience and technology.**

&nbsp;

Another key observation about Neuralink’s listings is the footnote underneath the departments:

> No prior experience in neuroscience is necessary — we will teach you everything you need to know.

**The team would rather hire the best engineers regardless of neuroscience experience, and teach them the necessary science for their application.**

&nbsp;

This perspective teaches us that neurotech is simply an application of engineering for interfacing with the brain. Sensors, data analysis software, and user interfaces are ubiquitous across technology companies, and neurotech may not be so dissimilar when reduced to its basic components.

&nbsp;

## Finding your path: what to consider?

For readers who are interested in working on neurotech but have yet to choose a discipline or major, there are two questions that may help guide your educational path.

Ask yourself **what applications of neurotech you are personally interested in, and what part of the neurotech stack you’d like to work on.**

&nbsp;

If non-invasive BCIs for measuring focus and productivity is most interesting, a Computer Science degree may serve higher utility than a Neuroscience degree. On the contrary, if developing BCIs for restoring movement and speech brings more fulfillment, a Bioengineering or Neuroscience education may align better with invasive neurotech companies’ needs.

&nbsp;

Neurotech is multidisciplinary effort, requiring ASICs (application specific integrated circuit), sensors, data analysis, machine learning, user interface, research, marketing, sales, and so on. Even within a single company, employees are likely working on very particular aspects of the product. Considering whether you want to conduct clinical trials, develop hardware, or write code is a basic but crucial thing to keep in mind.

&nbsp;

## In Conclusion

In this article, we looked at the educational backgrounds of employees working at ten neurotech companies to understand current trends and patterns.

The team at NeurotechJP is also comprised of many different disciplines, with educations in Neuroscience, Computer Science, Engineering, Communications, and Business.

&nbsp;

## Footnotes:

\*Educational backgrounds have been categorized very leniently for the sake of simplicity. Neuroscience and biology are grouped together but in reality, a neuroscience education is much more in-depth in neurobiology, neuroanatomy, and electrophysiology whereas a biology education could entail more coursework in areas like genetics and molecular biology. LinkedIn numbers reflect any education level (Bachelors, Masters, Ph.D., etc.) and likely varies largely between each individual’s educational experience. Even within a single discipline like Electrical Engineering, there are concentrations of courses that can vary from Embedded Systems to Sustainable Power Systems.


This article explores the educational backgrounds of employees in neurotech to better understand which educational path to take in Neurotech

What to Study for a Career in Neurotech?


&nbsp;

Many neural engineering labs are researching neural decoding, a process in which a decoder attempts to translate neural data into understandable information. There exists a wide range of decoders, from [decoding motor control information to allow quadriplegic patients to move a robotic arm,](https://www.nature.com/articles/nature11076) while [others have reconstructed images that subjects are looking at, solely from brain activity.](https://www.nature.com/articles/nn1444)

[Chang Lab](http://changlab.ucsf.edu/), led by Edward Chang of UCSF, is working on decoding speech from brain activity data, and won second place in last year’s [BCI Award](https://www.bci-award.com/2021). We interviewed [Dr. David Moses](https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=yW593xUAAAAJ&hl=en), who is working as a postdoctoral fellow at Chang Lab, and asked him about the current status, challenges, and future direction of neural speech decoding.

&nbsp;

## Reclaiming the Patient's Voice. David’s thoughts on Neural Speech Decoding

[The study conducted by David’s team](https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2027540), **successfully decoded the words and sentences that a subject with speech deficiencies attempted to speak based on brain activity recorded through implanted electrodes.** The study, which won second in last year’s BCI Award, has been covered in more detail by NeurotechJP in a [previous article](https://neurotechjp.com/jp/blog/bci-award-2021/).

[![BCI Award second place](https://neurotechjp.com/img/david-chang-lab/bci-award-second-place.jpg)](https://youtu.be/sJj6bKLr_lQ)
_Video: Explanation of the research which won 2nd place at BCI Award 2021_

&nbsp;

David's other research includes [utilizing the encoder-decoder model used in machine translation](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-020-0608-8), and [decoding speech as an answer given a question sentence](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-019-10994-4?teal_wdm=016fb5f30430001d94c398e2e27f000c6003a0be00490). He explains how he came to be involved in such research on neural speech decoding.

> I joined this lab, the Edward Chang lab at UCSF, in 2013 as part of my PhD program.
> Actually, I started working with speech perception. So basically, people would hear sentences,
> and then I would try to decode what they heard.
> And then over time, I ended up working more towards also trying to decode produced speech,
> so what someone was saying, and this is all done from intracranial recordings.
>
> At UCSF, there are patients who visit UCSF for treatment of medically intractable epilepsy.
> They have seizures, they have epilepsy, but medicine does not work to to treat their condition and they need to get brain surgery.
> So neurosurgeons such as my boss, Eddie Chang, first perform a surgery to implant a sheet of electrodes on the surface of the brain.
> This  technology is called [Electrocorticography](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrocorticography), ECoG, for short.
> From these electrodes, they record brain activity to try to find the sources of the seizure.
> And then, they do a second surgery where they try to resect the part of the brain that is causing the seizures.
> For a lot of these patients, they volunteer to participate in our research, which are speech studies.
> While these sensors are recording activity from their speech cortex, we are having them listen to sentences or to try to speak.
> And then we can try to learn a mapping between the brain activity that we record during this and the speech that they heard or produced.
> That is the basis for these projects that I that I did in my PhD.
>
> Also, I had a focus on real time processing as well.
> I was curious about how to decode speech information in real time, as the person is speaking or hearing.
> That is what led to the current work.

&nbsp;

David’s hope is to research interfaces that will improve communication for patients with speech difficulties using neural speech decoding.

> All that work I just described for my PhD, was with patients who could speak naturally.
> But the goal of the new work that came out as part of this ongoing clinical trial is to
> **evaluate if these approaches can work in someone who is actually paralyzed and cannot speak.**
> For these people, it is very hard to communicate not being able to speak, they have to use other methods to communicate.
> And our clinical trial participants also have limb motor disabilities, so they cannot move their arms or type either.
> Their options for communication are extremely limited.
> So for me, the long term goal that is personally motivating is to be able to
> **develop reliable technology that is practical and can restore voice to people who are unable to communicate rapidly or naturally.**
> And it gives them an option to control their personal devices and to communicate using speech
> with their caregivers and their family and their friends.

&nbsp;

## Without any guarantee, the team successfully demonstrated speech decoding in speech paralysis patients for the first time.

David led the team that conducted this research.

> My role was to lead this project. Dr. Chang was the principal investigator and supervised everything,
> and I led the effort making design decisions for the task,
> making sure that the data was collected and analyzed properly, writing the real-time processing software,
> and generally coordinating various aspects of the research and publication.

&nbsp;

Neural speech decoding, tested on subjects without speech impairments, has been successfully demonstrated in the past; David’s study would be the first to demonstrate speech decoding from subjects with Anarthria (or complete speech paralysis). David reflected on the challenges and risks of attempting such a novel study.

> There were **logistical and clinical challenges of getting the trial set up and going, and recruiting the participant**.
> I did not have a direct role in recruitment,
> but I know that it is very challenging to get everything set up to where we can work on this project.
>
> When you get down to the actual approach, there were so many things that could have gone wrong.
> It is hard to say what the most difficult part was,
> but **from what was known previously about the human brain and speech in someone who has lost the ability to speak,**
> **which very little was known about, it was possible for nothing to work.**
> Just to implant these electrodes and when he tries to speak there is no discriminatory information in the neural signals,
> so we cannot actually tell what he's trying to say.
> That could have been an outcome.

![Overview of the expeirment](https://www.nih.gov/sites/default/files/news-events/research-matters/2021/20210727-speak-screenshot.jpg)
_Image: Overview of the expeirment ([Neuroprosthesis for Decoding Speech in a Paralyzed Person with Anarthria](https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2027540))_

&nbsp;

## Three Difficulties in Neural Speech Decoding

Chang lab’s efforts has progressed the entire field of speech decoding research, but there seems to be room for improvement in the accuracy. What exactly are the challenges that researchers must overcome to improve upon current speech decoders?

To answer this, David mentioned the following three points.

&nbsp;

1. **Alignment**

> In terms of decoding speech when you are working with someone who cannot actually speak naturally,
> the big thing is, figuring out what the ground truth is.
> It is nice when someone can speak because you know exactly when they are saying what,
> but in this case, **it is a lot harder to align the neural data to what you expect the behavior to be.**

2. **Noise**

> And then just the inherent Signal to Noise limitations compared to, for example, trying to decode speech from an acoustic waveform.
> It is much harder to do so from neural activity because brain recordings are not just noisy but
> **there are a lot of background processes that are not relevant to speech**.
> So I think as hardware improves, like getting higher spatial resolution and coverage,
> we should see improvement in the ability to decode speech from brain activity.


3. **Generalizability**

> The last one I will say for now is generalizability.
> It is really hard to make a generalizable decoder that goes from brain activity to speech
> with this patient population.
> Our work was 50 words, but **expanding that to 1000 words would require basically a new modeling approach**.
> I would say that it's a big challenge not just decoding a small set of words, but enabling really large vocabulary decoding.

&nbsp;

## Towards practical speech: the engineering challenges of neural speech decoders

Currently, [eye tracking for text input is already in market](http://www.optikey.org/), and in some cases is it being used as a communication tool for patients with speech paralysis. However, neural speech decoding has yet to be put to practical use. When will it become available not only for research purposes but also for actual use by patients?

David says that there are still a number of problems that need to be overcome.

> I think there are many hurdles.
> On top of the scientific and engineering hurdles, there are regulatory hurdles.
> It is reasonable to make sure that people that are getting brain surgeries are receiving something useful,
> but I think that it is going to take some time.
> It is really hard to put a true timeline on it. I think for people with extremely severe disabilities,
> getting something that improves their standard of communication via a commercial application
> may **take a decade**.
> It may be possible within five years, but I think it depends.
>
> Before I feel really comfortable making some kind of claim for this,
> I would want to **make sure that our approach can work in more than just this one person**.
> If we see that even with different people and different disabilities we are able to decode
> what they intend to say to some degree, and if that degree is useful and offers increased benefit over
> their current non-BCI modes of communication, then I think that would accelerate my timeline.

&nbsp;

On the other hand, Meta (formerly Facebook) was once interested in Chang Lab and provided research funding. In this regard, David said that he is not thinking of applying this technology to people without disabilities.

> **We are definitely not thinking about something for the average person right now**.
> In today's day and age, it seems hard to imagine that someone would voluntarily get a brain implant
> for something like this, especially if they do not need it.
> I am not saying that it could never happen.
> It seems like the application would have to be capable of something inherently different than developing a speech neuroprosthesis.
>
> **From my understanding of Meta’s publicly announced goals for this, they were interested in making a non-invasive brain computer interface**
> **that would allow someone to control, for example, their smartphone without having to speak or look at it or anything**.
> I think one of the reasons they funded us was because they believe in what we are trying to do in terms of helping paralyzed people
> and **wanted to see how far the technology could be pushed with invasive methods**, not because they wanted to do anything invasive.
>
> But now, funding with them has ended,
> and they have also announced that they are now focusing more on their EMG control.


![Meta EMG](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/I06tNv-46yUx79qkJ1LpP1HmH2w=/0x0:711x400/1200x800/filters:focal(243x58:355x170)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68988252/Visual_3.0.png)
_Image: A wristband being developed by Meta using EMG_

&nbsp;

Lastly, we asked David about his future plans.

> Right now I am still focused more on shorter term goals of projects that we have going on as part of the ongoing clinical trial.
> So I am definitely still interested in working with paralyzed participants and trying to take this technology closer to application.
> It would be really interesting to see this technology developed into something that is practically useful.

&nbsp;

## In conclusion

A huge thanks to David for his insights into his research and the future of speech decoders.

At the end of the interview, we asked David for his personal opinion on some of the skills required to work at the Chang Lab. He first mentioned experience in Python and Machine Learning, bonus points for speech related projects. In terms of the neuroscience, the nature of the research at the lab does not require detailed understanding at the cellular level, but knowledge at the systems level such as the mechanisms of complex behavior control would serve to be useful.

Seeing the groundbreaking research from Chang Lab, the team at NeurotechJP is hopeful for developments that will propel us towards a world where patients with speech and motor impairments will be able to communicate again.


We interviewed Dr. David Moses, who is working as a postdoctoral fellow at Chang Lab, and asked him about the current status, challenges, and future direction of neural speech decoding.

Decoding Speech from Brain Data: An Interview with BCI Award 2021 Second Place Winner, David Moses


&nbsp;

NeurotechJP has introduced various neurotech products and resources through interviews. As mentioned in [an Interview article with Morgan Hough](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/morgan-neurotechsf/), he states the importance of open-source software and its importance as the field of neurotech continues to grow and develop. This article highlights five key resources, free and open to anyone on the internet, to start learning about neurotech and Brain Computer Interfaces.

&nbsp;

## [1. BCI Guys](https://www.bciguys.com/home)

The [BCI Guys](https://www.bciguys.com/home) have developed an introductory video series called the **Foundations of Neurotechnology.** The course covers an extensive breadth of information necessary to understand the interdisciplinary field of neurotechnology and BCIs. By taking a look at the [course list](https://www.bciguys.com/course), the BCI Guys provide an exceptional overview into everything BCI. **The course covers the following topics: introduction and history of neurotechnology, basic neuroanatomy, brain function and neuroscience, types of neurotechnology, and neuroscience. Neurotechnology types, neuromodulation and brain function enhancement, BCI and methods, neuroethics and cultural considerations, and industry players.**

[![BCI Guys youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-learning-contents-bci/bci-guys.jpg)](https://youtu.be/_V0-UzR0wuo)
_Youtube: BCI Guys_

[NeurotechJP previously interviewed Harrison Canning, the head of the BCI Guys](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/harrison-canning-rit/). They are planning to work with corporate sponsors to develop videos on the implenetation of said technologies and methods.

&nbsp;

## [2. NeurotechX](https://neurotechx.com/)

[NeurotechX](https://neurotechx.com/) is an international community for neurotech enthusiasts. The three pillars of NeurotechX are (1) community, (2) education, and (3) professional development. The community has developed and gathered many [BCI-related resources](https://github.com/NeuroTechX/awesome-bci), available for anyone to access on the internet. Among the vast library of neurotech resources they provide, **the most notable is [NeurotechEDU](http://learn.neurotechedu.com/lessons/), a high level overview of developing Brain Computer Interfaces.** They also provide sample projects using EEG (electroencephalography) to help you build real Brain Computer Interfaces.

![NeurotechEDU](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-learning-contents-bci/neurotechx.jpg)
_NeurotechEDU Table of Contents_

In addition, the [EEG notebook](https://github.com/NeuroTechX/eeg-notebooks) in the [NeurotechX Github repo](https://github.com/NeuroTechX) is a very good resource. It is a very comprehensive resource and contains sample code for almost all EEG-related experiments, such as P300, SSVEP, and so on.

&nbsp;

## [3. Neurotech Berkeley](https://neurotech.berkeley.edu/)

[Neurotech Berkeley](https://neurotech.berkeley.edu/) is an organization run by members of the University of California Berkeley, where Carmena Lab is located, as previously mentioned in [5 Featured University Labs/Facilities in BCI](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/5-bci-labs-facilities/).
The organization is divided into [six divisions](https://neurotech.berkeley.edu/divisions.html#): software, devices, consulting, outreach, publication, and education, with a focus on EEG, TMS, and fMRI.

![Neurotech Berkeley](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-learning-contents-bci/neurotech-berkeley.jpg)

Neurotech Berkeley's Github provides many Neurotech lessons and projects, with [Neurotech-Course](https://github.com/neurotech-berkeley/neurotech-course) being an introductory neurotechnology course complete with slides, videos, and tutorials. Some key resources include **tutorials on signal processing and data analysis in Jupyter notebooks, fMRI and EEG analysis (python), and the [fMRI Collaboratory](https://colab.research.google.com/drive/1).** This is a great resource for those who are interested in using EEG, TMS, and fMRI in their research.

&nbsp;

## [4. Spring school by G.tec](https://www.gtec.at/)

[g.tec medical engineering](https://www.gtec.at/) has been developing and manufacturing high-performance BCI and neurotechnology for both invasive and non-invasive recording for research and clinical use since 1999. g.tec offers [SPRING SCHOOL](https://www.gtec.at/spring-school-2022/), a 10-day online educational program that provides 10 hours of daily instruction using g.tec products. **In fact, the seminar originally cost 980 EURO (about 120,000 yen), but it was offered for free by Corona Peripherals 2021.** Recordings are available on Youtube.

[![G tec youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-learning-contents-bci/g-tec.jpg)](https://youtu.be/KbMlfMAPIak)
_Youtube: Spring School Day 1 by G.tec_

In addition, g.tec hosts [BR41N.IO](https://www.br41n.io/)(stands for THE BRAIN-COMPUTER INTERFACE DESIGNERS HACKATHON), a hackathon that started in 2017, and [webinars every Monday](https://www.gtec.at/product/webinars/). [SPRING SCHOOL 2022](https://www.gtec.at/spring-school-2022/) will also be held virtually starting April 30, Vienna time.

&nbsp;

## [5. Neuromatch](https://neuromatch.io/)

[Neuromatch](https://neuromatch.io/) is an online community run by an American non-profit organization. It operates two organizations, [Neuromatch Academy](http://academy.neuromatch.io/) and [Neuromatch Conference](http://academy.neuromatch.io/), whose mission is to facilitate inclusive, global interaction for learning, mentorship, networking, and professional development.

![Neuromatch](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-learning-contents-bci/neuromatch.jpg)
_Image: Neuromatch Website_

[Neuromatch Academy](https://academy.neuromatch.io/) is divided into [NMA-CN(Neuromatch Computational Neuroscience)](https://github.com/NeuromatchAcademy/course-content) for computational neuroscience and [NMA-DL(Neuromatch Deep Learning)](https://github.com/NeuromatchAcademy/course-content-dl) for deep learning. The syllabus for each is available on Github. **Both courses are organized into [a 15-day Summer School curriculum](https://academy.neuromatch.io/nma2020/course-materials), where you are encouraged to learn and collaborate with people from all over the world.**

The [Neuromatch Conference](http://conference.neuromatch.io/) is a conference for the computational neuroscience community. Looking at the [agenda](https://www.crowdcast.io/e/nmc4), the conference is divided into keynotes, panel sessions, short talks, and flash talks, which can be viewed through [Cloudcast](https://www.crowdcast.io/e/nmc4). There is also a [Discord server](https://conference.neuromatch.io/instructions/how-to-discord/) where you can ask questions and discuss.

&nbsp;

## In conclusion

In addition to the contents introduced here, the Python library [MNE](https://mne.tools/stable/index.html) has in-depth tutorials for analyzing brain waves, and [OpenBCI,](https://docs.openbci.com/) which is a sponsor of NeurotechX, provides great tutorials on how to use OpenBCI. There is no doubt that the development of this industry is propelled by open-source culture.

One final point to note is that unfortunately, when handling open-source brain data, ethical issues arise given the senstive and personal nature of brain activity. For those looking to learn about Neurotech and BCIs, open-source resources and datasets are extremely valuable and should be used while keeping ELSI (Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues) in mind.


This article covers five resources available to begin learning about the world of Neurotech and BCIs.

5 best resources for Neurotech and BCI


&nbsp;

NeurotechJP has showcased [five exciting startups in each subfield of neurotech](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/), where each company is developing products that build upon years of research in neurotech. In the [BCI Award 2021](https://neurotechjp.com/jp/blog/bci-award-2021/), many of the nominees were research labs developing BCIs (Brain Computer Interfaces). Shows how incredibly important the work that researchers do in the advancement of neurotech and BCIs.

In this article, we have chosen five established university labs that are working at the frontier of BCI research.

&nbsp;

## 1. Chang Lab at UCSF

[Chang Lab](http://changlab.ucsf.edu/), led by Edward Chang at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), is dedicated to **unraveling the basic mechanisms that underlie our ability to perceive and produce speech**. [Edward Chang](https://profiles.ucsf.edu/edward.chang), a director of the lab, holds degrees in neurosurgery and cognitive neuroscience from UCSF and UC Berkeley, and is currently a Professor of Neurosurgery and Chairman of the Department of Neurosurgery at UCSF.

&nbsp;

Much of the research conducted in the lab involves capturing and decoding the movement of neurons during speech behavior. For example, [a study that found a relationship between neural activity in the speech motor cortex and joint movements of the tongue and lips during the human speech](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29779940/), and [a study that found that the superior temporal gyrus predicts and compensates for noisy words when the subject hears them and a model that can predict words from the superior temporal gyrus before the subject recognizes them.](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/538b5960e4b07dc3ea21f4ef/t/58599ffb197aeaf7edd83cf2/1482268669330/ncomms13619.pdf)

Within the Chang Lab's great research projects, one particularly noteworthy project is **[a study that was able to decode the attempted thoughts of people with severe paralysis (Anarthria) in real-time](https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2027540).**

&nbsp;

Electrodes were implanted in the area of the brain that controls the vocal tract, and subjects (with paralysis) were asked to attempt to speak their answers to questions shown on a monitor. The brain activity was simultaneously acquired and combining multiple algorithms such as speech detection, word classification, and language modeling, in addition to signal processing algorithms, the researchers were able to train an algorithm capable of directly translating brain activity into words and sentences in real-time.

[![Chang-lab youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/bci-award-2021/ucsf-chang-lab-1.jpg)](https://youtu.be/sJj6bKLr_lQ)
_Video: a study that was able to decode the attempted thoughts of people with severe paralysis Anarthria in real-time_

The algorithm was able to distinguish **50 words**, produce **over 1000 sentences**, and decode **15 words per minute** with a median of **74%** accuracy.

This research was awarded second place in the [BCI Award 2021](https://www.bci-award.com/2021), and NeurotechJP has also featured it in the "**[The world's top-level ceremony 'BCI Award 2021': Explanation of the Top2 research](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/bci-award-2021/)".**

&nbsp;

The lab is also [**collaborating with Facebook (now Meta)**](https://tech.fb.com/bci-milestone-new-research-from-ucsf-with-support-from-facebook-shows-the-potential-of-brain-computer-interfaces-for-restoring-speech-communication/)) for its future potential as an invasive BCI.

&nbsp;

There are many other laboratories at UCSF involved in BCI and neuroscience research. In U.S. News & World Report's [Best Global Universities 2022 rankings](https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities), UCSF is ranked the **second-best university in the world** in the field of neuroscience, and the 11th best university overall.

&nbsp;

## 2. Neural Systems Lab at University of Washington

The [Neural Systems Lab](https://neural.cs.washington.edu/home) is led by Rajesh P.N. Rao at the University of Washington. The lab uses **computational models and simulations to understand the brain and to apply that knowledge to BCI and AI.** The director, [Rajesh P. N. Rao](https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rajeshpnrao.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHf0dWsPSjlGkNPQISd2k5K.XGLBQ) received Computer Science (CS) and other degrees from the University of Rochester and other institutions. He has been a CS professor at the University of Washington since 2000 and is currently a member of the [Center for Neurotechnology (CNT).](https://www.washington.edu/research/research-centers/center-for-neurotechnology/)

He is also the author of the book "[Brain-Computer Interfacing](https://www.amazon.co.jp/Brain-Computer-Interfacing-Introduction-Rajesh-Rao/dp/0521769418), which has built its reputation as the best **book for beginners in BCI** with its broad coverage of neuroscience, software, and hardware technologies, as well as business applications.

![Book](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/411UvXvQKJL._SX330_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)

_Book: Brain-Computer Interfacing_

The research conducted by the lab is divided into three sectors: computational neuroscience, which uses mathematical methods to create models and improve our understanding of the brain; AI modeling, which uses mechanisms similar to those of neurons; and BCI, which is the subject of this article.

BCI research can be divided into four projects:

1. **Brain co-processors:** This project utilizes artificial intelligence to adaptively deliver stimulation and compute control signals as a function of the brain's ongoing neural activity and external sensory signals.
2. **Naturalistic BCIs:** This project uses deep learning methods to improve the decoding of brain signals in naturalistic settings.
3. **Decoding pain and mood:** This project seeks to identify neural biomarkers for pain and mood.
4. **Modeling electrical stimulation:** This project models the effects of therapeutic electrical stimulation.

&nbsp;

The lab's latest research includes [a study that proposes a new method of transfer learning that applies a learned model to any patient](https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1741-2552/abda0b/meta), and [a study of an AI model that simultaneously decodes and encodes neural activity in multiple channels to achieve the intended behavior.](https://arxiv.org/abs/2012.03378)

&nbsp;

The Center for Neurotechnology, a facility at the University of Washington mentioned above, has made many noteworthy achievements. In [the news from October of this year](https://centerforneurotech.uw.edu/feature-stories/azadeh-yazdan-receives-32m-grant-investigate-ways-neurotechnology-could-induce), Azadeh Yazdan, a member of the facility, obtained a $3.2 million grant for a treatment for stroke.

&nbsp;

## 3. Neural Prosthetics Systems Lab at Stanford

The [Neural Prosthetics Systems Lab (NPSL)](https://shenoy.people.stanford.edu/) is a lab led by Krishna Shenoy at Stanford University. The lab conducts **research in neuroscience and neuroengineering to understand how the brain controls movement and to design medical systems to help people with paralysis**. Director [Krishna Shenoy](https://shenoy.people.stanford.edu/krishna-shenoy) received degrees in electrical engineering, computer science from MIT and was a postdoctoral fellow in Neurobiology at Caltech. He moved to Stanford University in 2001, where he is currently a Professor of Electrical Engineering and of Bioengineering and Neurobiology. Additionally, he advises Neuralink and CTRL-Labs(acquired by Facebook in 2019), both prominent companies in neurotech.

&nbsp;

The laboratory's research is divided into three divisions: the neuroscience division, which combines electrophysiology, optophysiological, behavioral, computational, and theoretical methods to study the neural basis of movement preparation and generation; the neuroengineering division, which designs high-performance BCIs; and the translational research division, which aims to deliver practical applications of their research.

&nbsp;

The Translational Research Division is a member of [BrainGate](https://www.braingate.org/publications-timeline/), an organization that aims to develop neural interfaces for tetraplegic patients.

&nbsp;

While the latest research on BCI includes [a study to develop an optical BCI that uses calcium imaging methods to read signals in the motor cortex](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-021-23884-5), a particularly interesting project is **[a study that invasively decodes imagined handwriting](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-03506-2)**, which was conducted last year. In this study, subjects were asked to imagine handwriting letters, and neural activity was read from a device attached to the motor cortex, which successfully decoded the letters.

![NPSL](https://jp.techcrunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/2021-05-14-003.jpg)
_Image: A study to invasively decode imagined handwriting_

In an experiment with a paralyzed subject, they succeeded in inputting **90 characters per minute with 94.1% accuracy**. This is comparable to the typical smartphone input speed of 115 characters per minute by a healthy person.

&nbsp;

Stanford University is famous not only for its research labs but also for its university institutions such as the [Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute](https://neuroscience.stanford.edu/).

In U.S. News & World Report's [Best Global Universities 2022 rankings](https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities), Stanford University is ranked **4th** in the field of neuroscience.

&nbsp;

## 4. Carmena Lab at UC Berkeley

[Carmera Lab](http://carmenalab.org/) is a laboratory at the University of California Berkeley led by [Jose Carmena](https://www2.eecs.berkeley.edu/Faculty/Homepages/carmena.html). The lab **combines neuroplasticity, machine learning, and neurotechnology to understand how the brain learns and controls movement, leading to smart prosthetics, neurotherapy, and more**. He received his engineering degree from the University of Valencia, Spain, and his Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh, UK, where he studied artificial intelligence and robotics. He also did post-doctoral research in neurobiology at Duke University in the U.S.. He became involved with UC Berkeley as an assistant professor in 2005, and became a professor in 2015.

&nbsp;

The laboratory consists of three areas: neuroscience, neurotechnology, and neuroprosthetics.

Particularly in the area of neurotechnology, the laboratory has collaborated with [Michel Maharbiz](https://www2.eecs.berkeley.edu/Faculty/Homepages/maharbiz.html) in the past to develop **neural dust, a wireless and battery-free neural sensor about one millimeter in size that uses ultrasound**. Due to its small size, this device can be implanted in the body with minimal invasiveness.
In 2017, Michel Maharbiz and Jose Carmena co-founded a startup for the commercialization of neural dust called [iota Biosciences](https://iota.bio/) ([news](http://carmenalab.org/research/neurotechnologies/)).

The company is also discussed in the article "[5 featured invasive BCI startups](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-invasive-bci/)".

![Neural dust](http://carmenalab.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/NeuralDust_mote_fingertip_Neely_Carmena.jpg)
_Image: Neural dust_

The lab has also conducted other research such as [experiments to investigate how subjects respond to BMI (Brain Machine Interface) and learn how to move BMI](http://carmenalab.org/research/neuroprosthetic-learning-and-control/) and [research on neuroprosthetics to induce neuroplasticity](http://carmenalab.org/research/therapies-neuropsychiatric-disorders/).

&nbsp;

UC Berkeley is one of the California State Universities, like UCLA, which is famous as the birthplace of the term BCI (Brain-Computer Interface), and UCSF, which was mentioned above.

In U.S. News & World Report's [Best Global Universities 2022 rankings](https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities), UC Berkeley is ranked **4th** overall.

&nbsp;

## 5. CNTR at Harvard

[CNTR](https://cntr.mgh.harvard.edu/)(Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery) is **a research facility that develops, tests and deploys new neurotechnologies to improve the care of people suffering from diseases and injuries of the nervous system**.

[Harvard Medical School (HMS)](https://hms.harvard.edu/)and [Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)](https://www.massgeneral.org/) are the parent institutions. The facility is composed of researchers and professionals such as neuroengineers, neurologists, neuroscientists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech therapists.

Director [Leigh Hochberg](https://www.braingate.org/team/leigh-hochberg-m-d-ph-d/)'s research focuses on developing and testing new neural technologies to help people with neurological disorders such as paralysis, and understanding the ensemble activity of cortical neurons. Hochberg's research has been published in prestigious journals such as Nature and the Journal of Neuroscience. He received his Sc.B. in Neuroscience from Brown University in 1990 and her M.D. and Ph.D. and M.D. degrees from Emory University in 1999, where he continued his internship in internal medicine. He then completed his residency and chief residency in neurology at MGH/HMS, as well as a fellowship in stroke/neurocritical care in 2004. In addition to CNTR, he is currently a Professor of Engineering at Brown University and a senior lecturer at HMS.

&nbsp;

CNTR has three core research areas: [CashLab](https://cashlab.mgh.harvard.edu/)(Cortical Physiology Labolatory), [NICC](https://www.comarecoverylab.org/), and [BrainGate](https://www.braingate.org/).

&nbsp;

[CashLab](https://cashlab.mgh.harvard.edu/) is a research group that uses advanced signal processing and machine learning techniques to understand brain function and develop new ways to measure and modulate complex neural signals.

The team at [NICC](https://www.comarecoverylab.org/) (Laboratory for NeuroImaging of Coma and Consciousness) at Massachusetts General Hospital is studying how patients with severe traumatic brain injury regain consciousness and how to facilitate the recovery process.

&nbsp;

[BrainGate](https://www.braingate.org/) is **a research group that develops a new communication device using BCI for patients with paralysis such as spinal cord injury, brainstem stroke and ALS patients.** **The group is based on the technology of [Cyberkinetics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyberkinetics), which developed the world's first BCI**. In 2004, Cyberkinetics received FDA approval for the clinical use of a brain implant device and later developed a device called BrainGate™. University research facilities that participated in the development of the device include Brown University and the University of Utah, and BrainGate is a group of experts from these universities. Currently, BrainGate is led by Hochberg, who is also the director of CNTR, and other researchers. BrainGate is also developing a new generation of wireless medical technology that can record and monitor neural activity to aid in the diagnosis and management of neurological diseases.

![BrainGate](https://www.brown.edu/sites/g/files/dprerj316/files/styles/wide_med/public/2019-03/Screen%20Shot%202018-11-13%20at%209.37.50%20AM.jpg?h=9274aef8&itok=Wnh6E7nn)
_Image: BrainGate | Control a tablet with his thoughts_

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this article, we introduced five university labs and research facilities that study BCI. While the laboratories discussed in this article mainly use invasive methods to study BCIs, there are many laboratories that use non-invasive approaches to study BCI. It is also common for researchers to develop spin-offs from research to startups, like Carmena Lab.


In this article, we have chosen five established university labs that are working at the frontier of BCI research.

5 Featured University Labs/Facilities in BCI


&nbsp;

As neurotech garners more attention, several neurotech-related communities have already been established around the world. One of the largest communities is [NeurotechX](https://neurotechx.com/).

Currently, NeurotechX has 30 city chapters worldwide, and more than 6,000 people have joined the Slack.

This time, we had the opportunity to interview [Morgan Hough](https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-g-hough/), the chapter lead of NeurotechX San Francisco. We discussed his background in open source software development and his involvement with the neurotech community.

&nbsp;

## With a passion for software development from an early age, he contributes to the advancement of science

In 1989, Morgan entered St. John's College to study liberal arts. However, a visit to Oxford University sparked his original interest in science, leading him to pursue an education in preparation to become a psychiatrist. After graduating, and with a dream of entering Oxford's medical school, he decided that it would be best to pursue a post-baccalaureate, as it was difficult for foreign students from countries with medical schools to gain admission to Oxford. 

Morgan chose to attend Reed College, which provided coursework in biology, chemistry, and other subjects to prepare him to take the MCAT, an exam required to apply to medical schools. There, he was exposed to science and research, studying the neurobiology of crustaceans.

&nbsp;

**Morgan also had had a keen interest in developing software since his childhood**, which did not change while attending St. John's College and Reed College.

> I was a self taught programmer as a kid. And at St. John's, I was selling Apple computers to students.
> I was doing support, system admin and things like that. And at Reed, I was the system administrator for the biology department.
> **I was always very interested in scientific software in particular**. I wasn't like the system administrator in the senior sense, but I was taking care of computers and doing frontline support for systems that were being used computationally for population genetics.

&nbsp;

After graduating from Reed College, he took the MCAT exam. Although he scored well, he was not accepted by Oxford University. He then decided to look for an internship in his home state of Virginia, and started working at CBRAINS (Center for Brain Research and INformation Sciences) at Radford University under [Karl Pribrum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karl_H._Pribram), who, at the time, was a professor emeritus at Stanford University. At CBRAINS, he was mainly involved in **prototyping and testing a high-density EEG system made by a company called [EGI (Electrical Geodesics, Inc)](https://www.egi.com/)**. It was a perfect project for Morgan, combining neuroscience and software.

> Karl gave me the EGI (Electro Geodesics, Inc) system, which ran on a Mac.
> That was pretty rare, especially for high-end scientific equipment.
> And it was super relevant to me because I have been a developer reseller for Mac computers.
> And this piece of equipment didn't really work. So it needed a lot of testing.
> You needed to be sure that your computer was doing everything right, and not the hardware.
> So it was a pretty perfect project. The project was semi successful, and I became the computer lab manager for that lab.

![High-density EEG by EGI](https://pennstate.pure.elsevier.com/files-asset/37884092/hydroccel_geodesic_sensor_net_hcgsn_by_egi_electrical_geodesics_inc_eqImage.jpg?w=450&f=jpg)
_Image: High-density EEG by EGI_

&nbsp;

After leaving CBRAINS, Morgan was approached by EGI. They knew that Morgan had been testing their product at CBRAINS, and decided to hire him as a software test engineer.

Morgan says that his experience at EGI was invaluable, not only because he got to deal with Mac computers, but also because **he was able to interact with people from different cognitive neuroscience labs**.

> The cool thing was that the company focused on research labs.
> It was nice to deal with Mac computers, data acquisition boards, microcontrollers and things like that.
> And then the last bit being you're basically interfacing with a bunch of cognitive neuroscience research labs.
> It was great because they ended up allowing me to go and do support on sites with research labs.
> And that was where **I really got to see multiple labs and how they worked and what they were doing**. It was an incredible experience.

&nbsp;

## Open Source is the Future. RE: Oxford from NeurIPS

After more than two years at EGI, Morgan left because he thought that MRI would be the future. Since he had always been interested in software, he knew most of the competing software packages for MRI. **The most prominent among them were [CURRY](https://compumedicsneuroscan.com/curry-epilepsy-evaluation/) and [FreeSurfer](https://surfer.nmr.mgh.harvard.edu/)**.

> In 1996, a lot of people were doing what's called spherical dipole models. They basically fit a sphere to about the size of your head, and then just do dipole models in that sphere.
> And you'd have these concentric spheres that represented the inner and outer skull.
> But they were not personalized.

> Curry was the state of the art package, at least in 1996. They were taking the MRI and then trying to generate meshes that really incorporated the individual anatomy using boundary element modeling. But they were also doing finite element modeling, which was an additional level of sophistication in your electromagnetic sources. And that stuck with me.

> There's another package that was also popular at the time called FreeSurfer.
> It was developed by Anders Dale in the late 1990s. What he developed for his PhD was
> this individualized MR modeling for better source localization. Basically he would fit to your actual cortex, not just inner and outer skull.
> And that had a whole host of additional computer vision, pattern recognition, and mesh correction.

&nbsp;

The more he learned about these software packages and the engineers behind them, **the more convinced Morgan became that open source was the future**.

> It gets to this point about being kind of like obsessed about how the software was working and what exactly you were using to do these things, because you wouldn't want to rewrite all this stuff, right?
> So this is also where I became pretty convinced that open source was the future.

In fact, in 2001, the year he retired from EGI, he started an open source project called [Center17](https://center17.ghost.io/). The United States had just experienced the terrorist attacks on 9/11. The project was an experimental physics/biology code/hardware development kit for biophysics-based neuropsychiatric artificial intelligence applications, in anticipation of the growing need for effective treatments for trauma, PTSD, and depression caused by the global war on terror.

&nbsp;

After that, Morgan got a job as a lab manager at University of California - San Francisco, where he was involved in MRI and other research. There, he had the opportunity to meet with various researchers and attend a number of conferences. One of the conferences that he attended was an international conference called [NeurIPS](https://nips.cc/).

NeurIPS is now one of the most famous conferences in machine learning, but when Morgan attended, it was before Google and other big companies took notice. His primary objective to attend the meeting was to join a workshop about [neuroimaging](https://medicine.utah.edu/psychiatry/research/labs/diagnostic-neuroimaging/neuroimaging.php), but there he met [Stephen Smith](https://www.ndcn.ox.ac.uk/team/stephen-smith), who was talking about a popular machine learning method called [ICA (Independent Component Analysis)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independent_component_analysis).

Morgan's questions about Stephen's presentation sparked a conversation that eventually led to an invitation from Stephen to come to Oxford University for a PhD program.

&nbsp;

Morgan was able to fulfill his longtime dream of attending graduate school at Oxford University, where he worked on [FSL](https://fsl.fmrib.ox.ac.uk/fsl/fslwiki), an open source software package for MRI. After graduating from Oxford, he continued development in open source projects.

One of them was [NeuroFedora](https://docs.fedoraproject.org/en-US/neurofedora/overview/), the successor to [NeuroDebian](https://neuro.debian.net/), a project that provides software packages for neuroscience research. He listed projects that were not yet included in NeuroDebian, and have been trying to generate them.

![Neurofedora](https://neurotechjp.com/img/morgan-neurotechsf/neurofedora.jpg)
_Image: NeuroFedora website_

&nbsp;

## Encounter with NeurotechX, a community with San Franciscan spirit

Morgan is now the chapter lead of NeruotechX SF, but NeurotechX itself was originally started by Yannick Roy and others. Morgan first met them when he saw their first showcase at Indiegogo. Interested in NeurotechX, Morgan offered to provide the system he had originally used when he was at EGI. In exchange, they let Morgan use their garage.

> I went to their first showcase at Indiegogo. **NeurotechX started with lovely San Franciscan spirit of openness and democratization of EEG and things like that.** > **It was perfect for me in the sense that people are trying to do what I'm interested in.**

> So I got interested in it and I offered them an old EGI system which has 128 channels and can do source imagining and stuff. And then they let us use their garage.
> They had some of their own software projects like CloudBrain that you are gonna have to be into the weeds of the software problems of EEG, one of which is incorporating the timing information of the experiments together with the time series data in a very regular way.

&nbsp;

Morgan says that his involvement with NeurotechX has been an exciting one.

> It was cool to have these software engineers that seemed like kids to me.
> They were using modern web libraries as opposed to me. They were using RabbitMQ, which is a message broker service and widely used at scale for web development. And the idea of leveraging that to deal with 32 streams of EEG from different people was a very cool idea.
> I would never have come up with that because I'm not familiar with this kind of web backend programming.

> I liked hanging out with these guys and learning about these kinds of different things.
> This is part of why San Francisco rules the world. All new to me. So I learned a lot from them.

&nbsp;

After Morgan joined NeurotechX SF, the number of people gradually increased, and even developers of a BCI device called Notion from a company called [Neurosity](https://neurosity.co/) and graduate students started to visit the garage. At that time, there were also workshops using a commercially available BCI device called [OpenBCI](https://openbci.com/).

Currently, due to the pandemic, the events and gatherings are held online, but NeurotechX SF is the only one of the many chapters that holds a regular event called hack night almost every week, where they provide commentary on the week's news related to neurotech and answer questions from the audience.

![Youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/morgan-neurotechsf/youtube.jpg)
_Image:Hack Night 11/08/2021 led by NeurotechX SF. The recording is available on Youtube(https://youtu.be/izfW5RmGIzk)_

&nbsp;

## As with open source, truly valuable content will form a community through network effects

Morgan describes the philosophy of open source as follows.

> You solve your own itch. But if you make sure that that itch is, for example, a neurotech problem, then you're solving other people's problems, right? And then that's how your tool becomes indispensable.
> If you build it, people will come. It was exactly what FSL did. FSL looked at SPM, which is a MATLAB tool, and they said, we want to be the C++ version of that and do it better. And they did that. And people used it.
> You see this in multiple domains. It's Google, Amazon, Apple and Facebook's approach to a whole bunch of things.
> It's like how do we become the essential open source tool? It is not because this is a profit center, but **because by getting the network effects of all those really smart people, more people will use our actual profit center products.**

&nbsp;

This philosophy also applies to community building.

Morgan said that if you want to grow a community like NeurotechX in Japan, it is important to invite speakers to events and create tutorials, but just like open source, **if you can invite speakers and create tutorials that are really valuable to people, it will create a network effect and people will naturally come together**.

> The speaker for the events is a draw. But if you get the right speaker, 30 people will show up instead of 15. And hopefully, two or three of those become regulars. That's how you do growth.
> And then tutorials. You give people the gift. That's how you get started and how you get your first cohort of people who will hopefully show up regularly. And then once those people are showing up regularly, you can do it next time, and it'll be better.

&nbsp;

Although there is a channel for Tokyo region on NeurotechX's Slack, no Japanese chapter has been created yet. There may be NeurotechX Tokyo (or any other city in Japan) someday in the future.

&nbsp;

## In conclusion

A big thanks to Morgan Hough, the chapter lead of NeurotechX San Francisco.

Morgan has been supporting the scientific research community through software development, especially with open source projects. His current goal is to further build the neurotech community through NeurotechX SF.

NeurotechJP would like to contribute to the development of the neurotech community in Japan in any way we can.


For this interview, we had an opportunity to interview Morgan Hough, the chapter lead at NeurotechX San Francisco. We discussed his background in open source software development and the operatino of the neurotech community.

Support Scientists with Open Source Software. Chapter Lead at NeurotechX SF｜Morgan Hough


&nbsp;

NeurotechJP has covered various applications of Neurotechnology in industry, such as [articles on startups active in Neurotech industry](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/) and [industry analysis reports](https://neurotechjp.com/slides/).

However, the root of these businesses depend on cutting-edge research and development of BCIs and Neurotech.

The [BCI Award](https://www.bci-award.com/Home) is an annual competition that recognizes the most innovative BCI (Brain-Computer Interface) research across the world, and the Top 3 research projects are selected from 12 nominated projects.

The winners of the [BCI Award 2021](https://www.bci-award.com/2021) were announced in mid-October to recognize innovative BCI research. This article explains the research behind the Top 2 Projects of 2021.

&nbsp;

## What is the BCI Award

The BCI Award is an international competition held annually, now in its 12th year. The range of sponsors span wide, including [g.tec](https://www.gtec.at/), which has been providing BCIs for several decades, Neurotech's research publication journal [IEEE Brain](https://brain.ieee.org/), Neurotech's largest community [NeurotechX](http://neurotechx.com/), and Riken's [AIP (Advanced Intelligence Project)](https://aip.riken.jp/).

12 nominated research projects are ranked by a panel of seven judges, including university professors and the previous year's winners, and the first place team receives $3000.

&nbsp;

## 1st place: "Stentrode", a component of the Synchron brain-computer interface

This year's first-place winner is the research team at [Synchron](https://synchron.com/). As mentioned in [5 featured startups in Invasive BCI](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-invasive-bci/), Synchron is an invasive BCI company that is attracting attention as a competitor to Neuralink.

Synchron's core technology, [Stentrode](https://synchron.com/stentrode), is a fully implantable medical device for paraplegics that can transmit brain signals from inside blood vessels.

&nbsp;

Noteworthy is that on top of its **minimally invasive design, the device can capture brain activity from multiple sensors**

Implanting Synchron's Stentrode requires a two hour surgery, but since the device is inserted through a blood vessel in the neck and travels within the blood vessel to the location of the brain, **no brain surgery is required**. The minimally invasive nature of the surgery gives patients peace of mind and enables the company to provide the device to a larger number of people. In July of this year, the company received [FDA approval for Stentrode's use in clinical trials](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210728005305/en/Synchron-Receives-Green-Light-From-FDA), making it the first company to offer invasive BCIs in humans.

&nbsp;

Stentrode is also designed to **capture brain activity related to the patient's intended movement, and the device's numerous sensors can record activity at multiple locations in the brain**.

By attaching a special transmitter to the chest, the brain activity data acquired from the Stentrode is transmitted to a computer and connected to a dedicated software platform. With repeated training, the user learns to type messages with just a thought and perform daily tasks such as shopping and internet shopping without inconvenience.

[![Synchron youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/bci-award-2021/synchron.jpg)](https://youtu.be/7Yo8VlMoJPU)
_Video: Introduction to Synchron's award-winning research_

&nbsp;

## 2nd place: A direct-speech BCI for decoding words and sentences in a person with severe paralysis anarthria

The [Chang Lab](http://changlab.ucsf.edu/) led by [Edward Chang](https://profiles.ucsf.edu/edward.chang), a professor of neurosurgery at UCSF, won second place in this year's competition.

They conducted **[research on an invasive BCI that can decode intended thoughts in real-time to help people with dysarthria and severe paralysis regain smooth communication](https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2027540).**

&nbsp;

Electrodes were implanted in the area of the brain that controls the vocal tract, and subjects (with paralysis) were asked to attempt to speak their answers to questions shown on a monitor. The brain activity was simultaneously acquired and combining multiple algorithms such as speech detection, word classification, and language modeling, in addition to signal processing algorithms, the researchers were able to train an algorithm capable of directly translating brain activity into words and sentences in real-time.

&nbsp;

An important advancement is the fact that Chang Lab's BCI is possible to decode **not only words but also sentences from brain activity while attempting to speak**.

Communication decoder BCI research is often divided into two distinct types: those that decode words and sentences that use brain activity during actual speech and those that use brain activity from subjects with speech-impairment disabilities while **attempting to speak.**

Their current research is part of the latter, and they are the first in the world to succeed in "**decoding sentences**" with high accuracy, which has been considered difficult in the past.

&nbsp;

Their algorithm is trained to distinguish 50 words and is capable of producing **more than 1000 sentences**.

They were also able to decode **15 words per minute** with a median accuracy of **74%**.

[![Chang-lab youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/bci-award-2021/ucsf-chang-lab-1.jpg)](https://youtu.be/sJj6bKLr_lQ)
_Video: Introduction to Chang-Lab's award-winning research_

&nbsp;

The lab is also studying patterns of [decoding words and sentences from brain activity during actual speech](https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2019/04/414296/synthetic-speech-generated-brain-recordings) and patterns of speech synthesis from neural decoding.

Not only did the lab win the BCI Award but also [collaborated with Facebook (now Meta) on research](https://tech.fb.com/bci-milestone-new-research-from-ucsf-with-support-from-facebook-shows-the-potential-of-brain-computer-interfaces-for-restoring-speech-communication/).

[![Chang-lab youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/bci-award-2021/ucsf-chang-lab-2.jpg)](https://youtu.be/kbX9FLJ6WKw)
_Video: Introduction to Chang-Lab's another research_

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

Both teams developed invasive BCIs and delivered highly innovative advances in the technology of decoding thoughts from brain activity. This type of research will continue to develop rapidly in the coming years, helping those with speech-impairments regain the ability to communicate through thoughts.  

The third-place team, whose paper is unfortunately not available to the public as of writing this article, developed a **non-invasive BCI** that classifies finger movements based on high-density EEG (electroencephalogram).

A huge congrats to Synchron, Chang Lab, and all other BCI Award nominees for their achievements in BCI research this year! NeurotechJP will continue to cover the latest advancements in BCI research, so keep an eye out!


Winners of BCI Award 2021 were announced in mid-October to recognize innovative BCI research. This article explains the research behind the Top 2 Projects of 2021.

The world's top-level ceremony 'BCI Award 2021': Explanation of the Top2 research


&nbsp;

In BMI research, there is a popular research topic called [Artificial retina](https://icrcat.com/en/artificial-retina-chip/#:~:text=Artificial%20retina%20or%20retina%20chip%20is,that%20electrically%20stimulate%20the%20retina.&text=The%20camera%20sends%20information%20to,optic%20nerve%20to%20the%20brain.).

Artificial retina is a technology that allows people who have lost their eyesight to see things again by applying electrical stimulation directly to their eyes.

![Aritificial retina](https://med.stanford.edu/artificial-retina/research/_jcr_content/main/panel_builder/panel_0/panel_builder/panel_0/image.img.620.high.png/eye-implant.png)
_Image: Artificial retina_

We interviewed [Hayato Nakamura](https://twitter.com/eigencoffee), who studied at Boston University from his first year as an undergraduate and is now a doctoral student at Stanford University. We discussed his career to date, the challenges of artificial retinas, and the future direction of BMI research.

&nbsp;

## Beginning in junior high school, his interest in BMI brought him to the U.S.

Nakamura first encountered the term "BMI" when he was in junior high school.

> When I was in junior high school, **there was a special feature on artificial retina in MIT Review or something**.
> The research was rudimentary compared to today, but it was about restoring vision to people who had lost their sight because the photoreceptors at the back of their retinas had died.
> In the study, they tried to send visual signals to the brain by directly stimulating the [RGCs](https://shorturl.at/cfrNP) （Retinal Ganglion Cells),which is located in front of the photoreceptors.
> In that study, the patient could only recognize the input image with a resolution of approximately 4×4,but I thought **it was interesting, just like Japanese anime called [Ghost in the Shell](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghost_in_the_Shell)**.
> This was my initial motivation.

The idea of an artificial retina being able to provide a visual experience by directly stimulating the brain is very appealing.

&nbsp;

In addition to the fact that BMI research was far more advanced in the U.S. than in Japan, Nakamura also had a sense of the limitation within the Japanese culture.

> In general, I felt that in Japan, people who like to do research and study are not treated very well.
> **I wanted to be more free to do what I wanted to do**, so I came to the U.S.

For these reasons, Nakamura decided to come to the U.S. He decided to study abroad as an undergraduate student in order to improve his English and acclimate to the local lifestyle, and enrolled in Boston University.

&nbsp;

## Immersed in research on computer vision and research using EEG as an undergraduate

During his first and second year as an undergraduate, Nakamura conducted computer vision research at the [VIP Lab](https://vip.bu.edu/); specializing in **object detection related research** in order to pursue methods to acquire a human-like visual system with computers.

> The main task of the research was human detection.
> **In normal person detection, input images are almost always ones in which the object and the ground are perpendicular, and there is almost never any kind of rotation.**
> During our research, the camera we used was a ceiling-mounted omnidirectional camera, which is equipped with lens distortion. For example, if there is a person standing right under the camera, their head will be enlarged.
> Depending on the position of the person, the legs may be facing upward and the head downward; ordinary computer vision algorithms cannot be applied.
> We developed a new algorithm and an architecture called RAPiD.
> When the paper was published, **it achieved [SOTA](https://www.cyberdefinitions.com/definitions/SOTA.html#:~:text=SOTA%20means%20%22State%20of%20the%20Art.%22) (State of The Art) in a dataset of panoramic image cameras.**

![EEG CV](https://neurotechjp.com/img/dr-nakamura-stanford/eeg-cv.jpg)
_Image: Human detection using omnidirectional camera_

&nbsp;

The main goal of this project is to **improve Heat Ventilation Air Condition (HVAC) systems,** which are installed in buildings. Incorporating this human detection algorithm by Nakamura and his colleagues, the system is expected to reduce power consumption by adjusting ventilation and heating/cooling according to the number of people and their activities.

This [research paper](https://arxiv.org/abs/2005.11623v1), of which Nakamura is a co-author, was accepted by [CVPR](https://cvpr2020.thecvf.com/) (Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition), the top computer vision conference. However, as he continued his research on object detection, **he realized more how amazing the human visual system is**.

> I learned from my research that **the human visual system is really amazing.**
> During our research on object detection using Deep Learning, we achieved SOTA, but it still did not compare to a human's vision.
> First, **the architecture itself is data-hungry and extremely vulnerable to anomalies**; I felt that it was far from human performance.
> I decided to move forward with research on the human visual system.

&nbsp;

With this in mind, during his third year as an undergraduate, he also conducted **research on human vision using EEG (Electroencephalography)** at [Reinhart Lab](https://sites.bu.edu/reinhartlab/) at Boston University.

> Using EEG, we recorded electrical signals from the human occipitotemporal lobe and decoded them.
> The setup of the experiment was to show the subject two striped patterns of black and white circles on a monitor at different times.
> At this time, each circle is rotated slightly, and **the the subject's task is to
> answer how much and which way the second circle was rotated relative to the first circle**.
> It was a study to decode the object rotation information stored in the subject's visual working memory from the data of the subject's brain during the task.

&nbsp;

In fact, this research has some similarities to the object detection research that Nakamura did when he was a first and second year undergraduate student.

> The unique process I applied in Deep Learning was that I **put the rotation into the Loss Function**, I then researched **how humans store the angle information of rotation**.
> What I discovered was that **it was possible to decode rotation angle information even with EEG**.
> This is how I moved forward with neuroscience.

&nbsp;

## Currently a doctoral student at Stanford University, he is planning to research on artificial retinas

Nakamura started his doctoral program at Stanford University in September 2021. He plans to conduct research on BMIs (Brain Machine Interfaces), especially those related to artificial retinas. He chose Stanford from the following reasons:

> First, my personal reason was that **I always wanted to go to Stanford**.I think Stanford was the first American university of which I saw online lectures.
> I took a tour at Stanford and wanted to attend Stanford as an undergraduate student, however, I couldn't enter as an undergraduate, so I opted to attend Boston University.
> Later, I applied for graduate school again to fulfill my longtime desire.

> A larger reason that **I am interested in the human visual system** at Stanford.Stanford has many BMI-related laboratories. If I didn't join the lab, I could find interests in another laboratory. **Research on artificial retina would be the closest to the combined field of visual system and BMI**.
> Artificial retina is the best example of BMI, so I had been considering joining a laboratory that was working in this field.
> I researched and found a lab at Stanford that I considered suitable for me.

&nbsp;

## Challenges of artificial retina and future research

The issues with the current artificial retinas: The first is the **low resolution** of them.

> **The resolution of artificial retina machines on the market today is very low**. It's like 8×8.
> If you look at your fist, you'll see an 8x8 patch floating nearby and everything else is completely dark. The electrodes are attached to the peripheral retina, the patch is not in the center of your field of vision. **It is a far comparison from the normal visual experience.**
> If the text was just an outline, large enough or, a single letter, you may be able to read it. It may not be realistic.

One way to solve this problem is to increase the number of electrodes, but this alone does not achieve completely natural vision. This is because RGCs are not only lined up on a flat surface, but are also intricate in three dimensions.

Simply stimulating them with electrodes in two dimensions will stimulate all the other neurons on the axis, making it impossible to send the desired signals.

&nbsp;

![RGC](https://neurotechjp.com/img/dr-nakamura-stanford/retina.jpg)
_Image: RGC_

In order to solve this problem, **we need to understand the role of each RGC**. It is not an easy task to investigate the properties of about 20 different RGCs, but in the lab that Nakamura is considering joining, they have already investigated the characteristics of four types of [cells](<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cell_(biology)>) in experiments using [macaque monkeys](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macaque).
In the future, it is expected that they will investigate the characteristics of the other cells and develop electrodes that can stimulate them precisely.

However, after all this work, we can only send black and white images. Further research will be needed to **send images with three color channels**.

> The next step is how to make it so that we can **send an image with three color channels.**
> This is also very difficult because we don't know **how the color information is encoded in the spike sequence, and what each RGC corresponds to.**
> If we don't figure that out first, we won't be able to deliver proper colors. We already have an algorithm for reconstructing grayscale images from spike trains, but we haven't yet reconstructed the color information.
> If the next paper comes out from our lab, I think it will be an algorithm for reconstructing images with color information.

&nbsp;

To help solve these problems, Nakamura is also considering research on a topic called **smart artificial retina**, which combines computer vision and artificial retina.

> One of my research projects is to combine computer vision and artificial retina to create a smart artificial retina.
> Since there is very little information that can be displayed in 8x8 pixels, I would like to make full use of them to **show only the important information to the patient**. For example, when a person is talking, the most relevant information is their facial expressions.
> I'm also working on creating **an artificial retina that can identify the surrounding environment, classify the situation, and optimize the information to be presented.**
> This is one of the ways to solve the problem I mentioned earlier.

This kind of research can be applied to AR and other fields, and is expected to have a great impact not only on BMI.

&nbsp;

## Future of BMI research and career after graduation

Nakamura, who is currently conducting BMI research in academia, says that **companies will also play a significant role** in the future development of BMI.

> Everyone has their own ideas, but I think that **BMI will develop more and more from startups and companies.**
> I really think that neuro start-ups such as Eron Musk's Neuralink, will be the key to the future of not only neuroscience but of BMI.Originally, BMI research was only done in academia and for clinical applications.
> **However, if companies were to enter the field in the future, they would be interested in applications other than clinical ones, and such applications would flourish the field.**
> In that sense, I think that BMI will continue to develop from industry rather than academia.

&nbsp;

As for the direction of development of BMI, he says that **there are only a limited number of things that can be done non-invasively, and he thinks that research will move in the direction of making invasive closer to non-invasive**.

> If we are discussing invasive or non-invasive, I personally think that **it needs to be invasive.**
> There are only a few things that can be done non-invasively. Of course, it would be better to do what can be done non-invasively, but I think what most people want to do is something that cannot be done non-invasively.
> Therefore, I think that **research on materials that can make invasive procedures as burdenless as non-invasive ones** is one of the policies that should be considered.

> It is difficult to say the boudary between invasive and non-invasive. Is it invasive if the skull is opened, or is it invasive if nanorobots are placed inside a blood vessel to measure the activity inside the body?
> I'm not sure if it's really invasive or non-invasive, but at the very least
> **it would be difficult to manage with EEG.**
> If not EEG, ultrasound modulation and imaging are probably more practical than EEG, and then there is [optogenetics](<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Optogenetics#:~:text=Optogenetics%20is%20a%20biological%20technique,express%20light%2Dsensitive%20ion%20channels.&text=Control%20(or%20recording)%20of%20activity,spatiotemporal%2Dspecific%20manner%20by%20light.>). If they are non-invasive, I think they have potential.

> Invasion, too, has some difficulties in its way, but when I think of the many patients participating in trials such as artificial retina, I think **they will do it without hesitation if it will change the quality of their lives considerably.**

&nbsp;

Lastly, Nakamura answered about his own career as follows.

> I would like to **join the research department of a BMI company and do research.** If, in the next few years,BMI is still in its infancy and is too early for industry to enter, I may choose to stay in academia.
> If the momentum of the industry continues to accelerate, I may choose to work for a company after graduation and do research.
> I could also start my own business, but I'll think about it later, after I've had more experience.

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this interview, we talked to Hayato Nakamura, who conducted research on object detection and the human visual system using EEG at Boston University and is planning to conduct research on artificial retina at Stanford University.

Nakamura's research is rooted in MMO (Massive Multiplayer Online) games, which he has been addicted to since he was in kindergarten under the influence of his older brother.

If the mechanism of the human visual system is revealed, we may one day see a world where full dive in is possible.


We interviewed Hayato Nakamura, who studied at Boston University from his first year as an undergraduate and is now a doctoral student at Stanford University. We discussed his career to date, the challenges of artificial retinas, and the future direction of BMI research.

Toward the Practical Use of Artificial Retinas. A Japanese Researcher at Stanford University｜Hayato Nakamura


&nbsp;

Our brains are constantly evolving. Especially in childhood, the brain learns and evolves through first-hand experiences.

This change in the function and structure of the brain in response to stimuli is called "**[Neuroplasticity](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuroplasticity)"**.

There are billions of pathways running through our brains that are accessed every time we think, feel, or act, and some of them are very fast. They correspond to habits, that is, established ways of thinking, feeling, and acting. However, when we think or learn something different, new pathways are opened up, and if we keep learning over and over again, our brain will use those pathways more frequently. As a result, the unusual thought, action, or learning becomes a new habit, which is how neuroplasticity works.

![Neuroplasticity](https://s3.amazonaws.com/dynamicimages.cognifit.com/storage/cognifit/landing/brain-neuronal-network.jpg)
_Image: Neuroplasticity_

One way to realize neuroplasticity is a technology called **"Neurofeedback, " which visualizes brain wave activity in real-time, and by training it, changes the brain waves and leads to self-regulation of brain functions.**

As introduced in [10 Technologies Representing Neurotech - First Half -](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/10-major-types-of-neurotech/), neurofeedback can be used to treat **various neurological disorders** such as ADHD. In addition, neurofeedback can also be used to **improve concentration and productivity at work**.

&nbsp;

In this article, we will introduce selected five startups that are developing unique solutions based on neurofeedback technology.

&nbsp;

## [1. Myndlift](https://www.myndlift.com/)

[Myndlift](https://www.myndlift.com/) is a startup that provides **kits and applications for neurofeedback that can be used with the brainwave device [Muse](https://choosemuse.com/).**

[![Myndlift Introduction](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neurofeedback/myndlift.jpg)](https://youtu.be/rCjpqOg3QSQ)
_Video: Myndlift Introduction_

&nbsp;

The application they provide allows you to train your brain through several games to **improve concentration** and **relaxation effects**. In addition, their proprietary device kit includes **additional electrodes** that can be worn in any position in addition to the electrodes on the Muse to **enhance the accuracy of neurofeedback**.

Furthermore, users can also take advantage of online sessions where they can receive monthly professional consultations.

&nbsp;

The company's technology is in use at **more than hundreds of neurofeedback clinics worldwide,** and its training has been used in **more than 300,000 sessions (approximately 7 million minutes).**

&nbsp;

|                |                            |
| :------------: | :------------------------: |
|    Industry    |  Neuroscience, Health Care |
|  Headquarters  |      Tel Aviv, Israel      |
|  Founded Date  |            2014            |
|   Employees    |           11-50            |
| Funding Status |            Seed            |
| Total Funding  |            $2M             |
|   Investors    |             9              |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Myndlift](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/myndlift)

&nbsp;

## [2. BrainCo](https://www.brainco.tech/)

[BrainCo](https://www.brainco.tech/) is a startup that offers **[FocusCalm](https://focuscalm.com/), a device that combines neurofeedback technology and an EEG headband to reduce stress with just a few minutes of daily use.**

[![Brainco Introduction](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neurofeedback/brainco.jpg)](https://youtu.be/OrBiQzvwO_o)
_Video: FocusCalm Introduction_

&nbsp;

In FocusCalm, you can **learn how to control your mindset** by playing simple brain games and doing a few minutes of guided meditation every day in a unique application. It is mainly used by **athletes** and **education facilities** for its effectiveness in increasing productivity and motivation.

The EEG headset can be purchased for $200 and the application is available for $10 a month, making FocusCalm easily accessible to anyone. According to Dr. Wasifa Jamal's [study](https://focuscalm.com/), **21% of the users who used FocusCalm were able to improve their wellbeing at work**.

The company is also offering an [SDK development kit](https://brainco.tech/focus-sdk/) so that anyone can create applications using brain waves.

&nbsp;

|                |                                          |
| :------------: | :--------------------------------------: |
|    Industry    |        Biotechnology, Health Care        |
|  Headquarters  | Somerville, Massachusetts, United States |
|  Founded Date  |                   2014                   |
|   Employees    |                  11-50                   |
| Funding Status |                   Seed                   |
| Total Funding  |                   $6M                    |
|   Investors    |                    5                     |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase BrainCo](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/brainco)

&nbsp;

## [3. Sana Health](https://www.sana.io/)

[Sana Health](https://www.sana.io/) is a startup that offers **a device that uses innovative audio-visual technology to accelerate improvement in terms of physical recovery as well as mental health**.

[![Sana Health Introduction](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neurofeedback/sana-health.jpg)](https://youtu.be/7vZZiqgn4KU)
_Video: Sana Health Introduction_

&nbsp;

The company's device, "Sana Mask," provides audio-visual stimulation to **increase the balance between the left and right brain and induce a state of deep relaxation.**

In addition to a sensor that can measure heart rate, the mask has a built-in device that can transmit low-level light stimulation even when the eyes are closed. The device pulses light and sound with a specific algorithm and stimulates based on the individual's heart rate, thereby regulating the nervous system and providing a sense of security.

&nbsp;

|                |                                    |
| :------------: | :--------------------------------: |
|    Industry    |     Biotechnology, Health Care     |
|  Headquarters  | Lafayette, Colorado, United States |
|  Founded Date  |                2015                |
|   Employees    |               11-50                |
| Funding Status |                Seed                |
| Total Funding  |               $18.4M               |
|   Investors    |                 25                 |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Sana Health](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/sleepstarter)

&nbsp;

## [4. Healium](https://www.tryhealium.com/)

[Healium](https://www.tryhealium.com/) is a startup that offers **the world's first virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) platform that uses brain waves and heart rate to create wearable products for consumers.**

![Healium VR](https://www.tryhealium.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Greenkit3-1.jpg)
_Image: Healium device_

&nbsp;

Healium AR/VR uses biometric information obtained from the Apple Watch and [their proprietary brainwave device](https://www.tryhealium.com/2020/05/22/brainlink-lite-the-new-eeg-headband-wearable-to-power-healium/) to **display** **the user's emotional parameters on the VR/AR**. Unlike mobile applications such as Myndlift described above, by providing an application on **immersive VR/AR** in Healium, users can **more effectively self-manage** to relieve stress and anxiety.

![Healium UI](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neurofeedback/healium-ui.jpg)
_Image: UI Screen in Healium AR_

&nbsp;

The peer-reviewed journals reported that Healium reduced moderate anxiety **by a third in as little as four minutes.**

&nbsp;

|                |                                   |
| :------------: | :-------------------------------: |
|    Industry    |  Augmented Reality, Health Care   |
|  Headquarters  | Columbia, Missouri, United States |
|  Founded Date  |               2015                |
|   Employees    |               1-10                |
| Funding Status |       Non-equity Assistance       |
| Total Funding  |               $1.4M               |
|   Investors    |                 1                 |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Healium](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/storyup-inc)

&nbsp;

## [5. Neuromore](https://www.neuromore.com/)

[Neuromore](https://www.neuromore.com/) is a startup that provides **software tools that enable the use of neurofeedback independent of devices and platforms.**

[![Neurmore Introduction](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neurofeedback/neuromore.jpg)](https://youtu.be/TxgUGacQCXE)
_Video: Neuromore Introduction presentation_

&nbsp;

The company provides **a unified [operating system](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operating_system)** across a world-class ecosystem of biosensors, hardware, software, service, and healthcare providers to integrate user experiences in ways never before possible.

![Neuromore gif](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neurofeedback/neuromore-editor.gif)
_GIF: Example of using the Editor tool._

&nbsp;

The editor tool provided by the company allows users to **customize** **pipelines** that connect real-time biosensor data with the algorithms and AI/machine learning methods provided by the company through drag-and-drop operations. This makes it possible to **easily adjust and debug** **the required feedback metrics** by creating an optimal flow cycle.

&nbsp;

|                |                               |
| :------------: | :---------------------------: |
|    Industry    |    Software, Neuroscience     |
|  Headquarters  | Miami, Florida, United States |
|  Founded Date  |             2014              |
|   Employees    |             11-50             |
| Funding Status |             Seed              |
| Total Funding  |             $800K             |
|   Investors    |              N/A              |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Neuromore](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/neuromore)

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this article, we have introduced five companies that have applied neurofeedback technology.

While the purpose of providing mental support is a common use case for neurofeedback, the uniqueness comes from how it is realized and what kind of interface is provided to the user.

We can expect to see more and more creative companies like Healium applying neurofeedback to VR, and others like Neuromore providing SaaS and platforms.


In this article, we will introduce selected five startups that are developing unique solutions based on neurofeedback technology.

5 featured startups in Neurofeedback


&nbsp;

Consumer Brain-Computer Interface has been attracting attention in recent years, but how long have we had consumer BCI in our hands?

&nbsp;

Although BCIs have been around for more than 30 years, the turning point for consumer BCIs dates back more than 20 years. Research in invasive BCIs was rapidly accelerating in the mid-1990s. [Cyberkinetics](https://www.braingate.org/), founded in 2001 by a team of researchers from [Brown University](https://www.brown.edu/), provided the world's first consumer BCI, "NeuroPort," two years after its establishment, enabling users to monitor their activity of the nervous system.

When "NeuroPort" and other early BCIs hit the consumer market, many devices never gained any traction. Yet, one pioneering company was able to deliver a non-invasive BCI device that would establish the consumer BCI market for the coming years. That company is [NeuroSky](http://neurosky.com/), led by [Stanley Yang](https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanley-yang-8173602/), who joined us for this interview.

&nbsp;

We had the opportunity to talk with Stanley Yang, the CEO of NeuroSky, about the history and future of the company: how they developed the market, and what their strategy is as a pioneering company in recent years under intense competition.

&nbsp;

## What is NeuroSky

![Neurosky logo](https://www.neurosky.jp/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/ns_logo_480.png)

Yang, who studied electrical engineering at UC Berkeley, has a talent for building gadgets, and in 1997 he founded [Triscend](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/triscend), a provider of chips including microprocessors, and the company was acquired by [Xilinx](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/xilinx) in 2004. Later, he joined NeuroSky with [JongJin Lim](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jongjin-lim-b740a11a/) and [KooHyoung Lee](https://www.linkedin.com/in/koohyoung-lee-5742176/), who founded the company in Silicon Valley that same year.

&nbsp;

In 2009, NeuroSky collaborated with two companies, [Mattel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mattel) to launch [Mindflex](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mindflex), a toy that uses brain waves to control a ball in a maze, and [Uncle Milton](https://www.unclemilton.com/) to launch [Star Wars Science Force Trainer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Force_Trainer), a game that allows users to experience the Star Wars "Force". As a manufacturer of these devices, the company was active as an [OEM](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Original_equipment_manufacturer). Based on those findings and experiences, the company then started offering a BCI called Mindset, along with a game called ["Neuroboy"](https://store.neurosky.com/products/the-adventures-of-neuroboy-bci-technology-demo) that allows users to move objects with brain waves.

Currently, the company not only offers **[consumer EEG devices](https://store.neurosky.com/)** that **can be purchased from $100** but also provides **SDK kits** for developers free of charge. The company is also in the business of selling the **chips**, which is their core technology, to a number of BCI companies.

&nbsp;

In addition, the company is expanding their business **from the U.S. to Europe and Asia, and has raised more than $30 million dollars to date.**

![Neurosky device](https://puzzlebox.io/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/mwm_headset_23.jpg)
_Image: Neurosky device "MindWave"_

&nbsp;

## Background on Successful Market Development. "Training the market first."

There is no doubt that NeuroSky's devices, along with exciting applications and gamas that popularized BCIs to consumers in the 2000s.

Yang told me that **it took a lot of hard work to install the concept of BCI in people** as most people had never heard of "brain waves."

> At that time, if I asked people to use brainwave technology, or product, nobody knew what it was.
> Although the medical industry measured brainwaves, the general consumer had no idea how or why they should use a product to measure brainwaves.

&nbsp;

How did Yang and the team at NeuroSky approach educating the general public about "brain waves" and developing the consumer BCI market?

&nbsp;

![Neurosky Starwars trainer](https://blogofwishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/star-wars-force-trainer-brain-controlled-toy.jpg)
_Image: Neurosky Star Wars Force Trainer_

As a breakthrough, **they "trained the market" by offering a toy that people were familiar with: the Force from Star Wars**.

> At that time, it was very difficult to convince customers to use a brainwave measuring product without obvious applications.
> That's why we went with "Star Wars" because they have the force that many people are familiar with.

> “The Force” replaced “brainwaves”. Then they became curious because everybody knew the force is not real. People investigated the technology behind the Force Trainer and found NeuroSky's Brainwave EEG technology.
> That's called “training the market”
> ...
> We spent a lot of effort in training the market because we had to make people accept and understand our product. Many companies with great products failed to train the market and to make people understand their products.
> ...
> It took a lot of effort to build products. Thanks to “training the market”, we have been successful over the last 10 ~ 15 years in introducing our technology to the general public.

&nbsp;

**Making "market training" the first step** is the key to success, Yang said.

> After many of these trainings, you can use the technology to do more things and then you can make revenue and money.
> ...
> For example, I have the original iPhone. In the beginning, just four apps on the screen for a while, but now they have billions of apps. So at that time, they needed to train the market to understand the concept that "this is an app".
> ...
> Even big companies can fail when they have new products. It's not because the technology is not good, or the idea is not good, or the application is not good. I've seen them fail because they fail to train the market. So, that's very important.
> If you have a brand new idea or product, nobody's seen it, so you have to train the market to accept it at first.

&nbsp;

## Providing devices in education and selling chips. What are the use cases?

NeuroSky has succeeded in training the market. Now, how should they continue to broaden their reach to a wider audience?

&nbsp;

Yang answered that **providing good applications with a purpose is important.**

NeuroSky's focus now is on **educational** and **industrial** areas, providing devices not only for end-users but also for **organizations and businesses**.

> We are now very popular in some kind of practical application such as schools and gyms around the world that use a headset for education.
> Also, many construction companies around the world are now using our brainwave technology in the workers' helmets to monitor if they are in poor condition. It helps them prevent accidents and save their lives and save the company costs.

&nbsp;

The BCI offered by NeuroSky has only one electrode, and its accuracy and range of use cases are limited compared to other BCIs such as those introduced in [5 featured startups in non-invasive BCI](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-non-invasive-bci/).

However, as an experienced leader in developing devices, NeuroSky provides their chips to other companies developing BCIs.

**By providing the chip itself to companies working on BCI development, they are collaborating** rather than competing, Yang explained.

> We don't just sell devices to consumers. We build our own chips and we have many collaborations with companies.
> They sell devices with multi-channels, but we're not competing against them. So we actually have many applications through partners. There are so many of these technologies that already use our chips and platforms to build out.  
> So some of these products you mentioned are not our competitors. They're actually our customers.

![NeuroSky Chip](http://www.computex.biz/PhotoPool2/201402/201402121807057312.jpg)
_Image: NeuroSky chip for EEG_

&nbsp;

## A platform company and a biosensor company. NeuroSky's expansion beyond EEG devices.

NeuroSky has a unique position in the field of Neurotech by developing and providing chips, so what does the future of NeuroSky look like?

&nbsp;

Yang told me that they will continue to be **a platform company** first.

> Apple has an app store for all the apps. So Apple focuses on building the phone. We build a brainwave technology platform, the hardware.
> We provide a platform just like the iPhone, and we don't let our business partners and our customers deploy their apps on their own. Their applications on are deployed on this platform.

&nbsp;

![Neurosky watch](https://neurotechjp.com/img/yang-neurosky/watch.jpeg)
_Image: Neurosky smartwatch_

In addition, he said that they will adapt the AI and hardware technologies that they have developed over the years, **not only to EEG but also to biosensor chips**. As an example, they have worked with the government to develop a smartwatch that detects COVID-19 symptoms.

> We are not just providing brainwaves sensors, we also build basic biosensors.
> For example, we built a smartwatch. It much helps detect your conditions and then calculate the possibility that you have COVID.
> Now, we have another application in body sensors as well as watches. So we're now applying our base technology to other areas.

&nbsp;

## In conclusion

A special thanks to Stanley Yang, the founder of NeuroSky, for interviewing with us about NeuroSky, their history, strategy, and future.

Just as NeuroSky had a lot of trouble getting people to recognize the BCI when it was first launched, it is essential to train the market to provide people with technology that was once thought to be unfeasible. These lessons may be applicable beyond Neurotech, for social implementation of the latest technology in many other fields.


We had the opportunity to talk with Stanley Yang, the CEO of NeuroSky, a company that has been pioneering the Neurotech market for more than 10 years, about the history and future of the company: how they developed the market, and what their strategy is as a pioneering company in recent years under intense competition.

A pioneering BCI company in the market for 10+ years "NeuroSky" | Stanley Yang


&nbsp;

## Introduction

As introduced in [5 featured Startups in Neurotech](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-of-interest/), BCIs can be broadly classified into three types: invasive, semi-invasive, and non-invasive. The "invasive" type of BCI introduced here is a technology that increases the possibilties of devices by implanting electrodes directly into the brain through surgery.

&nbsp;
Currently, there are more than 1,500 neurotech-related companies listed on [NeurotechX](http://neurotechx.com/), but only 45 of them are actually involved in the application of invasive BCIs.

Among the invasive BCI companies, [Neuralink](https://neuralink.com/) leads the market in terms of size and popularity, but there are many companies that have been providing BCIs using this technology long before them.

&nbsp;

In this article, we will introduce some of the startups that have made significant progress in their technology and vision to compete with Neuralink, along with their remarkable features and visions.

&nbsp;

## [Neuralink](https://neuralink.com/)

Before explaining Neuralink's competitors, I would like to first introduce Neuralink's value proposition and technical background that is creating a lot of buzz in this market.

&nbsp;

The company recently announced that it has raised [an additional $205M in Series C funding](https://neuralink.com/blog/series-c/), and more remarkable is its **investment team**. [Vy Capital](https://www.vycapital.com/) is the lead investor, with six other firms including [Google Ventures](https://www.gv.com/). As for angels, [Sam Altman](https://www.crunchbase.com/person/sam-altman) (Chairman of [YC Group](https://www.ycombinator.com/) and CEO of [OpenAI](https://openai.com/) ), [Fred Ehrsam](https://www.crunchbase.com/person/fred-ehrsam) (Co-founder of [Paradigm](https://www.paradigm.xyz/) and [Coinbase](https://www.coinbase.com/)), [Ken Howery](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ken_Howery)(Co-founder of [PayPal](http://www.paypal.com/) and [Founders Fund](https://foundersfund.com/)), and other investors who have a strong relationship with Neuralink's co-founder, Elon Musk.

&nbsp;

These investors are accelerating Neuralink's technology R&D, and in turn, are bringing Neuralink's vision closer to reality.

The company's vision is to provide BCIs to help people with paralysis, and to expand our abilities and our world. [According to Shivon Zills, Director of Operations at the company](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2RA3lzZ9PA&feature=youtu.be), they are thinking of **2033 - 2036 as a guideline for providing devices to healthy humans**.

![Neuralink intro](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-invasive-bci/neuralink.jpg)
_Image: Neuralink app, device, robot_

It is no exaggeration to say that Neuralink is a leader, not only in popularity but also in their **technology**.

By implanting Link, a device about the size of a coin, into the brain, it is possible to control a smartphone by simply thinking about it through mobile apps provided by the company. Remarkably, the company has also developed a robot to perform the implantation procedure automatically. By using a robot to perform the surgery instead of humans, the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of the surgery can be guaranteed, and Neuralink devices can be provided to more people.

&nbsp;

|                |                           |
| :------------: | :-----------------------: |
|    Industry    |   Neuroscience Research   |
|  Headquarters  | Fremont, California, USA. |
|  Founded Date  |           2016            |
|   Employees    |          101-250          |
| Funding Status |         Series C          |
| Total Funding  |           $363M           |
|   Investors    |            13             |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Neuralink](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/neuralink)

&nbsp;

## [Paradromics](https://www.paradromics.com/)

Paradromics is a startup that provides **a device called "Connexus" to restore communication in patients who have lost the ability to speak due to severe paralysis.**

![Connexus device](https://assets.bwbx.io/images/users/iqjWHBFdfxIU/iWVJ0IgbMVG0/v0/150x-1.jpg)
_Image: Connexus_

The company [raised $20M in seed funding in July of this year](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-07-22/neuralink-competitor-raises-20-million-for-brain-implants), and its technology and growth have positioned itself as a major competitor to Neuralink.

With this funding, the company will implement the feature to convert bioelectrical signals into digital signals for computers by using brain-implantable microwires connected to a device in the chest.

Last year, the company [implanted more than 30,000 electrodes in the cerebral cortex of sheep to perform **the biggest brain activity experiment ever**](https://www.paradromics.com/news/paradromics-unveils-the-largest-ever-electrical-recordings-in-cortex/). The recordings enabled high-fidelity observation of sheep brain activity in response to sound stimuli, demonstrating the effectiveness of Connexus.

&nbsp;

[Matt Angle](https://www.crunchbase.com/person/matt-angle), a co-founder of the company, describes his vision for the future.

> We are combining the best of neuroscience and medical device engineering to create a robust and reliable platform for new clinical therapies.

The company plans to **partner with major healthcare companies to develop new treatments for brain-related diseases.**

&nbsp;

|                |                                        |
| :------------: | :------------------------------------: |
|    Industry    |  NeuroTech, Healthcare, Medical Device |
|  Headquarters  |          Austin, Texas, USA.           |
|  Founded Date  |                  2015                  |
|   Employees    |                 11-50                  |
| Funding Status |                  Seed                  |
| Total Funding  |                 $49.4M                 |
|   Investors    |                   15                   |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Paradromics](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/paradromics)

&nbsp;

## [Synchron](https://synchron.com/)

Synchron is a startup that offers **a small device called "Stentrode™," implanted in the blood vessels for patients with paralysis**. The implantation requires about two hours of surgery, but the device is inserted through a blood vessel in the neck and moved within the blood vessel to the location of the brain, so it can be implanted **without brain surgery**.

[![Synchron Intro](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-invasive-bci/synchron.jpg)](https://youtu.be/mm95r05hui0)
_Video: Synchron intro_

The company, like Neuralink and Paradromics, offers control of a computer with just a thought using its invasive BCI, but it is ahead of other companies in terms of **speed to commercial use**.

In order to sell a device that works on the human body in the U.S., the company needs to demonstrate its capabilities and safety to the [FDA](https://www.fda.gov/) and get approval. **The company was approved by the FDA to conduct clinical trials in July of this year**. This is the **first time that a commercial invasive BCI company has been approved for use on humans**, and it is a step ahead of other competitors such as Neuralink, which has yet to receive approval from the FDA.

Later this year, the company plans to conduct a clinical trial of Stentrode™ in six subjects at a hospital in New York.

&nbsp;

The company has already begun clinical trials with four patients in Australia, where it has confirmed that it can "transfer data from the motor cortex of the brain through electrodes to control digital devices."

&nbsp;

|                |                                          |
| :------------: | :--------------------------------------: |
|    Industry    | NeuroTech, Medical Device, Manufacturing |
|  Headquarters  |        Campbell, California, USA.        |
|  Founded Date  |                   2016                   |
|   Employees    |                  11-50                   |
| Funding Status |                 Series B                 |
| Total Funding  |                   $50M                   |
|   Investors    |                    13                    |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Synchron](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/synchron-inc)

&nbsp;

## [iota Biosciences](https://iota.bio/)

iota biosciences is a startup that provides **millimeter-sized, ultrasound-driven invasive devices**. The company was founded by [Jose Carmena](https://www.crunchbase.com/person/jose-carmena), a professor of electrical engineering and neuroscience at UC Berkeley. It is the world's first BCI device small enough to be called "neural dust", and its functionality is attracting a lot of attention.

![Iota bio device](https://techcrunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/iota_product_blowup.png?w=1390&crop=1)
_Image: iota biosciences device_

The key points of the device are its **size and ultrasound-based functionality**.

The company's small device can be **implanted anywhere in the body,** with the capability of capturing and stimulating the central nervous system. This will allow doctors to treat diseases such as arthritis and cardiovascular disease more effectively.

In addition, data acquisition and other interactions with the device will be done using ultrasound. Therefore, unlike the devices offered by Neuralink and the other companies mentioned above, **it does not require batteries or wires**.

&nbsp;

The company was [acquired by Astellas Pharma in 2020 for $127.5 million](https://www.astellas.com/en/news/16126). Founder Jose Carmena and his team say that by working together, they can bring innovative new approaches to the management and treatment of diseases that affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide.

&nbsp;

|                |                            |
| :------------: | :------------------------: |
|    Industry    |       Biotechnology        |
|  Headquarters  | Berkeley, California, USA. |
|  Founded Date  |            2017            |
|   Employees    |           11-50            |
| Funding Status |          Series A          |
| Total Funding  |            $15M            |
|   Investors    |             7              |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Iota biosciences](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/iota-biosciences)

&nbsp;

## [NeuroPace](https://www.neuropace.com/)

NeuroPace is a startup that offers **invasive BCI as a treatment for neurological conditions such as epilepsy.** The company's device [RNS® System](https://www.neuropace.com/patients/neuropace-rns-system/) monitors brain waves, recognizes a patient's unique "seizure onset footprint," and automatically generates small amounts of electrical signals before symptoms occur.
The RNS® System is the **only FDA-approved device that responds to abnormal EEG signals to treat epilepsy**, and has been clinically tested on 191 patients at 31 epilepsy centers to demonstrate its safety and efficacy.

[![RNS System Intro](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-invasive-bci/neuropace.jpg)](https://youtu.be/2QLvuVqfNsA)
_Video: RNS System Intro_

The device is implanted in the brain for approximately eight years, and experimental data showed that at the eight-year mark, the device reduced seizures by an **average of 73%**. In addition, out of this group, **30% of patients achieved 90% seizure reduction or better in the most recent three months, and 29% had at least one period of 6 months or more without seizures.**

&nbsp;

|                |                                 |
| :------------: | :-----------------------------: |
|    Industry    |   Healthcare, Medical device    |
|  Headquarters  | Mountain View, California, USA. |
|  Founded Date  |              1997               |
|   Employees    |             101-250             |
| Funding Status |              Grant              |
| Total Funding  |             $247.3M             |
|   Investors    |               16                |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Neuropace](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/neuropace)

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this article, we introduced five startups that have applied invasive BCI technology.

Unlike [non-invasive BCIs](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-non-invasive-bci/), invasive BCIs require intensive testing, often starting with multiple interations in animals before use in humans. The access to resources to develop these technologies only exist in top institutions and a handful of well-funded companies. However, several companies, led by Neuralink, are exploring the market with their abundant financial resources and innovative technologies.

With their success, there may be future where implanting devices in the brain will bring innovative experiences. On the other hand, as the FDA is regulating the testing and commercialization of devices, there will be more concern over the ethical aspects of "manipulating the brain".

The team at NeurotechJP are keeping a close eye on commercial invasive BCIs, and the impact they will have in the neurotech and medical fields.


We introduce some of the startups that have made significant progress in their technology and vision to compete with Neuralink, along with their remarkable features and visions

5 featured startups in invasive BCI


&nbsp;

[Neuralink](https://neuralink.com/), led by Elon Musk, has attracted the world's attention in the area of BCI (Brain-Computer Interface), which connects the brain to computers.The BCI they are offering is capable of capturing accurate and informative brain data by implanting an implant in the brain.

&nbsp;

On the other hand, there is a non-invasive BCI that reads brain waves by mounting a device on the head without the need for surgery. Among the startups dealing with non-invasive BCI, there are many startups that have grown by combining other technologies and implementing them in society for various use cases and purposes. In this article, we will introduce five carefully selected non-invasive BCI startups that are gaining momentum right now.

&nbsp;

## [1. Cognixion](https://www.cognixion.com/)

[Cognixion](https://www.cognixion.com/) is a startup that offers **the world's first wearable speech generation device that combines BCI and AR.**

![Cognixion Device](https://www.eazilee.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Cognixion-hello.jpg)
_Image: Cognixion Device_

The device offered by the company, "[Cognixion One](https://one.cognixion.com/)," is designed for people with speech disabilities. By manipulating the buttons projected on the AR device screen with your mind, the voice assistant will read out the characters you input as you wish.

[![Cognixion Demo](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-non-invasive-bci/cognixion.jpg)](https://youtu.be/7R9Llc1M_qk)
_Video: Cognixion Demo_

It has three features: **communication without delay, accuracy in reading thoughts, and simple design.**

The first is the speed from thought to speech generation. By speeding up the processing of machine learning, which generally takes a certain amount of time, Cognixion One is able to achieve fast communication with fewer pauses.
Secondly, the accuracy of reading thoughts. By using deep learning technology, they have been able to achieve 95% to 100% accuracy in reading thoughts.
The third is the usability of the device. The simple and modern design, refined by many designers, provides users with smooth communication.

In addition to Cognixion One, the company also offers "[Sparkprose](https://www.cognixion.com/speakprose)," which supports conversation using eye and facial expressions. Cognixion is a start-up that offers many approaches to the challenge of communication.

&nbsp;

|                   |                                            |
| :---------------: | :----------------------------------------: |
|     Industry      |  Artificial Intelligence, AR, Neuroscience |
|   Headquarters    |      Santa Barbara, California, USA.       |
|   Founded Date    |                    2014                    |
|     Employees     |                   11-50                    |
|  Funding Status   |                    Seed                    |
|   Total Funding   |                   $2.8M                    |
|     Investors     |                     1                      |
| Estimated Revenue |                 $1M or less                |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Cognixion](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/cognixion)

&nbsp;

## [2. Kernel](https://www.kernel.com/)

[Kernel](https://www.bitbrain.com/) is a startup with **a large amount of money, talented people, and technology** that is second to none to [Neuralink](https://neuralink.com/) led by Elon Musk.

Founder [Bryan Johnson](<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bryan_Johnson_(entrepreneur)>) is known as a serial entrepreneur. He founded [Braintree](https://www.braintreepayments.com/), sold it to PayPal for 80 billion yen, and then launched a fund called [OS Fund](https://osfund.co/), and founded the company Kernel with his own funds in 2016.

![Kernel Device](https://miro.medium.com/max/1400/0*oOfmc2AcLQOk4W6i)
_Image: Kernel Device_

The company has developed a helmet-type device [Flow](https://www.kernel.com/flow) that uses [fNIRS](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Functional_near-infrared_spectroscopy) to measure brain activity based on the amount of oxygen in the blood, and a device [Flux](https://www.kernel.com/flux) that uses [MEG](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetoencephalography) to capture changes in the magnetic field of the brain.

Although devices using MEG and fNIRS have appeared on the market, they have many disadvantages, such as limited data collection and a size too large to be placed only in facilities. The company, however, has made it possible to collect **high-quality data at home** by using its superior proprietary technology. The large number of rich data sets that were previously difficult to obtain will be a big step forward in this industry.

&nbsp;

|                |                                                 |
| :------------: | :---------------------------------------------: |
|    Industry    |  Information system, Life science, Neuroscience |
|  Headquarters  |          Los Angels, California, USA.           |
|  Founded Date  |                      2016                       |
|   Employees    |                     51-100                      |
| Funding Status |                    Series C                     |
| Total Funding  |                      $107M                      |
|   Investors    |                        6                        |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Kernel](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/kernel-co)

&nbsp;

## [3. Muse by Interaxon](https://choosemuse.com/)

[Interaxon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetoencephalography) is a startup that uses BCI to help people **improve their mindfulness meditation and sleep quality.**

[Muse](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetoencephalography), an EEG device provided by the company, can obtain real-time feedback on mental activity, heart rate, breathing, and body movements.

[![Muse Demo](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-non-invasive-bci/muse.jpg)](https://youtu.be/uPyXwrLvOAo)
_Video: Muse Introduction_

By wearing the device and installing a dedicated app, users can check their meditation and sleep quality in addition to their daily biometric data.

The most important feature of the device is **its price**. The company offers two types of devices, [Muse 2](https://choosemuse.com/muse-2/) and [Muse S](https://choosemuse.com/muse-s/), both of which can be purchased for $200 to $300. Because of its affordability, the number of users has been growing year after year, and the app has been downloaded less than **8,000** times a month.

Its use is not limited to mindfulness. The company also provides a system for developers to take real-time data of their own brain waves, which is also used by **many researchers** due to its price and development support. There is even a community called [Muse research](https://choosemuse.com/muse-research/), where many university researchers use Muse for their research.

&nbsp;

|                |                                |
| :------------: | :----------------------------: |
|    Industry    |  Consumer Electronics, Fitness |
|  Headquarters  |    Tronto, Ontario, Canada     |
|  Founded Date  |              2007              |
|   Employees    |             11-50              |
| Funding Status |            Series B            |
| Total Funding  |             $30.4M             |
|   Investors    |               14               |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Interaxon](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/interaxon)

&nbsp;

## [4. Emotiv](https://www.emotiv.com/)

[Emotiv](https://emotiv.com) is a startup that offers **a number of EEG devices and applications for research and development.**

![Emotiv Device](https://www.tegakari.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/emotiv_epoc-x_img.jpg)
_Image: Emotiv Device_

The key point to note is **the quality of the data and the platform provided**: the device [EPOC X](https://www.emotiv.com/epoc-x/#), which has 14 electrodes, is designed to fit any head shape with its flexible and rotatable frame.

This allows the BCI to accurately capture data from the frontal, occipital, temporal, and parietal lobes, and because it is relatively inexpensive at $849, it is often used by researchers who deal with complex processes such as moving a cursor.

Even a beginner can create a BCI application once they buy the device. Aside from [Emotiv Pro](https://www.emotiv.com/emotivpro/), a platform that can acquire raw brain wave data in real-time for researchers, the free platform [Emotiv BCI](https://www.emotiv.com/emotiv-bci/) allows you to create BCI applications, such as moving a drone with a thought, using already prepared algorithms at the touch of a button.

&nbsp;

|                   |                                   |
| :---------------: | :-------------------------------: |
|     Industry      |  Enterprise Software, Health Care |
|   Headquarters    |  San Francisco, California, USA.  |
|   Founded Date    |               2011                |
|     Employees     |              51-100               |
|  Funding Status   |               Seed                |
|   Total Funding   |               $120K               |
|     Investors     |                 2                 |
| Estimated Revenue |               $1-10M              |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Emotiv](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/emotiv)

&nbsp;

## [5. Bitbrain](https://www.bitbrain.com/)

[Bitbrain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetoencephalography) is a startup from Spain that is active in the **collaborative development of BCI**. The company provides a number of devices and software such as EEG devices and eye-tracking, and is also active in collaborative development and consulting with companies.

![Bitbrain Device](https://www.bitbrain.com/sites/default/files/styles/product_header_desktop/public/landing_page/splash_image/home-header-hero.png?itok=-ZEG8eSl)
_Image: Bitbrain Device_

Announced at [CES](https://www.ces.tech/About-CES.aspx) in 2018, [the company's collaboration with Nissan](https://www.bitbrain.com/blog/nissan-brain-to-vehicle-technology) had the potential to revolutionize the automotive industry. It is generally known that when a person is about to perform an action, a specific brain wave response occurs 1~2 seconds before the actual action. In this project, the BCI is attached to the driver, and by detecting the brain wave response that occurs before a certain action, the system can predict the actual action and suggest a more comfortable and safer driving experience. **Using this technology, it may be possible to predict and prevent unexpected traffic accidents before they happen.**

&nbsp;

|                |                                   |
| :------------: | :-------------------------------: |
|    Industry    |  Biotechnology, Consumer Research |
|  Headquarters  |     Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain.      |
|  Founded Date  |               2010                |
|   Employees    |               11-50               |
| Funding Status |              Private              |
| Total Funding  |               $1.9M               |
|   Investors    |                 1                 |

&nbsp;

Reference: [Crunchbase Bitbrain](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/bitbrain-technologies)

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this article, we have introduced five neurotech startups that apply non-invasive BCI technology.
Although each of them provides BCI using various forms and technologies, they have achieved growth by finding their own unique features and practicality. At the same time, the number of people who generally feel comfortable with the seemingly science-fiction-like technology of Neurotech is increasing day by day.

We can expect more non-invasive BCI startups to appear in the future, but there may be many opportunities to enter the market, thanks to pioneer startups like those introduced here, who have already pioneered the market.


In this article, we will carefully select five non-invasive BCI startups that are gaining momentum.

5 featured startups in non-invasive BCI


&nbsp;

What is the mechanism of human consciousness?

&nbsp;

To understand the mechanism, it is necessary to fully understand the movement and system of [neurons](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuron) in the brain for each action.

However, there are still many unknowns to clarify the approximately 100 billion neurons in the human brain, and many years of research are still needed.

Under such circumstances, [C. elegans](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caenorhabditis_elegans) is considered to be one of the research targets as an approach to unraveling the mechanism of the human brain. C. elegans is less than 1 mm long and has only 302 neurons. Therefore, it is used as a model organism to unravel the complexity of the human nervous system.

![C elegans img](https://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/BN-JD545_0630la_G_20150629113932.jpg)
_Image: C elegans_

&nbsp;

In this interview, we had the opportunity to talk with [Dr. Muneki Ikeda](https://sites.google.com/view/munekiikeda/english), who is researching the mechanism of consciousness using the neural circuits of C. elegans at [UCSF (UC SanFrancisco)](https://www.ucsf.edu/), about his past research trajectory, his current research, and the possibility of future breakthroughs in this field.

&nbsp;

## "I want to know my own mind." The background of the inquisitive mind that pursues the cutting edge

Dr. Ikeda has been doing neurological research for less than 10 years now, and his interest in the brain and consciousness started when he was in high school and **he wanted to know how his own mind worked.**

> There was a time in high school and college when I was distressed about things, and I wanted to learn more about my own mind.
> I took classes in psychology and philosophy, and as I learned more, I decided to study the brain because there is a fact that the mind is created by the brain.
> I guess there was a way to learn about the mind through work and listening to people in various fields.
> However, as I started my research, I found that **the approach of science**, such as theories and how to organize facts, was more comfortable for me, and I decided to go into research.

&nbsp;

After graduating from the University of Tokyo with an undergraduate degree, Dr. Ikeda completed a master's course at the same university. Since he was an undergraduate student, he has been interested in **overseas laboratories that conduct cutting-edge research using C. elegans.**

> I had the impression that the cutting edge was in the U.S., and I wanted to receive my Ph.D. there.
> At the same time, I wanted to move to a lab that used C. elegans as a model animal.
> So I searched for a lab with these two keywords: a lab overseas and a lab for neuroscience research on C. elegans.

&nbsp;

Later, he went on to pursue a Ph.D. at Nagoya University in Japan, and after participating in a month-long overseas research internship during the third year of his doctoral degree, he visited the PI (Principal Investigator) of the [FOCOLab](http://focolab.org/) at UCSF, to which he currently belongs, at an international conference on C. elegans held in the same year, and was accepted to join the lab.

&nbsp;

## Understand how consciousness works by creating its neural circuits by himself.

Dr. Ikeda said that **the best way to understand the mechanism of consciousness is by creating it.**

> For example, in general, artificial intelligence is an intelligence that is artificially created to solve a problem that exists in the outside world.
> What I think about AI is that it's **an artificial thing that we create in order to understand the intelligence that exists today, or our own intelligence, or our minds.**
> Creating it specifically means creating a model of neural circuit that is as close as possible to the real brain, and by doing so, we can understand it.
> Also, by tweaking the model corresponding to reality, or conducting virtual experiments on a large scale, I want to understand the mind gradually.

&nbsp;

While humans have 100 billion neurons that are intricately connected to each other, C. elegans has only 302 neurons, and the connections between these neurons and the locations of their synapses have been identified.

In his [doctoral research](https://www.pnas.org/content/117/11/6178.short), he focused on the behavior of C. elegans moving toward a specific temperature, and **identified the population of neurons necessary for that behavior** from among the identified connections between neurons.

![Dr.Ikeda research 1](https://neurotechjp.com/img/dr-ikeda-ucsf/dr-ikeda-research-1.jpg)
_Image_

&nbsp;

So, what kind of processing takes place within the identified neuron population that results in the behavior of moving toward a specific temperature?

&nbsp;

In his [recent research](https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1007916), he **modeled the neural circuits of the C. elegans**, and succeeded in explaining the processing within a population of neurons by **exploring the parameters of the strength of the connections between neurons, associated with the behavior, using machine learning.**

> We have data on what kind of temperature input we have, and what kind of output we get.
> We also have data on how neurons are structurally connected to each other, but the missing data right now is **the weight between neurons, or the strength of the connections.**
> I wanted to know what combination of weights would better reproduce the actual behavior of C. elegans.
> In my recent research, I used a genetic algorithm to create a model of the circuit by parameter search, and then conducted various virtual experiments on it, and proposed **a relationship between the neural circuit and the direction of C. elegans.**

![Dr.Ikeda research 2](https://neurotechjp.com/img/dr-ikeda-ucsf/dr-ikeda-research-2.jpg)
_Image_

&nbsp;

Dr. Ikeda told me that **by understanding the movement of neural activity in C. elegans, we will be able to apply the framework revealed by its neural activity to understanding human neural activity when technology catches up in the future.**

> Now we can measure the neural activity of about 200 neurons out of the 302 neurons in C. elegans when it is moving freely.
> If we know an approach to understand how C. elegans' brain functions by using these data following: the time series of the activity of all the neurons in its neural network; the behavior of C. elegans at that time; the input from the outside world;
> then **in the future, when we have a time series of the activities of all 100 billion neurons in the human brain, that approach will probably be useful in some way.**

&nbsp;

## Difficulties in "consciousness research"

For many years, research on consciousness has been conducted all over the world, and recently accepted by the industry.

However, the question that still arises is **how to put consciousness research on the scientific stage**, Dr.Ikeda said.

> What I want to know from the beginning is the mind, or "conscious experience" in academic terms.
> The overall issue is how to apply the methodology that I am taking now to the study of consciousness.

&nbsp;

In addition, Dr.Ikeda told me that another issue is **how to confirm that C. elegans has consciousness.**

> There are various proposals for evolutionary approaches to C. elegans, which can explain the complex behavior of C. elegans, but solving the question of whether it can be said to have consciousness is still an issue that I'm working on.

&nbsp;

## In order to uncover human consciousness.

He has been researching on a limited number of neurons for a limited number of behaviors in C. elegans, and his near-term goal is to **build a model for all neurons and all behaviors**, Dr.Ikeda said.

> What I have published in my paper is about a limited group of neurons for a very limited behavior of going to a certain temperature, which is a little less than 20 neurons out of 302 neurons.
> I want to make it closer to 302 neurons, and eventually I want to reproduce every observable behavior of C. elegans.

&nbsp;

So when will this technology reach a breakthrough for us humans?

&nbsp;

He answered, currently, we can read a few thousand neurons when we implant electrodes in the surface layer of a human brain, but **when the technology catches up to the point where we can read hundreds of millions of neurons, we will be able to successfully apply the methodology obtained from C. elegans.**

> In the invasive method, electrodes are implanted, and the spike trains at the single neuron level are being obtained.
> At the moment we are only discussing a few thousand spikes on the surface, but in the future, I think that number will probably increase up to hundreds of millions.
> That's probably a breakthrough for me, and then I think we can apply the methodology I used with C. elegans directly to a human brain.

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

This time, we had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Muneki Ikeda, a researcher at UCSF who is now conducting research on the mechanism of consciousness using C. elegans.

&nbsp;

Although C. elegans is an organism far different from humans in terms of both shape and size, the mechanism of its nervous system is becoming apparent every day through research.

The day when we can scientifically prove the mechanism of thought in our brains may be coming soon.


This time, we interviewed with Dr.Muneki Ikeda, who is researching the mechanism of consciousness using C. elegans at UCSF, about his past research trajectory, his current research, and the possibility of future breakthroughs in this field.

Uncover the consciousness mechanism. Researcher at UCSF | Muneki Ikeda


## Introduction

Neuropharmacology is **the study of both the treatment of curing sick people and improving their moods for the better.** Hence, it applies to everything from drugs prescribed to help the sick to the latest **"smart drugs"**.

&nbsp;

As introduced in [10 Technologies Representing Neurotech ~ First Half ~](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/10-major-types-of-neurotech/), the field of neuropharmacology is broadly divided into two categories: molecular neuropharmacology and behavioral neuropharmacology. The development of new drugs takes a great deal of time and money, but nevertheless, the investment is made because the benefits are just as great.

According to a report by [Neurotech Analytics](https://www.neurotech.com/), the majority of the Neurotech market is dominated by companies that apply Neuropharmacology technology. In this article, we would like to highlight five of the companies that are growing in size and taking unique approaches.

&nbsp;

## [1. Sage Therapeutics](https://www.sagerx.com/)

[Sage Therapeutics](https://www.sagerx.com/) is a company that is developing new drugs that could change the lives of people with brain health disorders. Its lead product is [ZULRESSO](https://www.zulresso.com/), the **only drug certified** **by the US FDA for the treatment of postpartum depression**.

[![Sage therapeutics](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neuropharmacology/sage-therapeutics-video.jpg)](https://www.sagerx.com/about-us/)
_Video: Sage Therapeutics introduction_

The company has been working with the neurotransmitter system [GABA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamma-Aminobutyric_acid) and [NMDA receptors](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NMDA_receptor).

These two neurotransmitter systems are said to play a major role in the regulation of central nervous system functions and they are working on the treatment of various neurological disorders such as dementia, epilepsy, essential tremor, and Parkinson's disease, in addition to depression, using their own developmental approach.

|                   |                                         |
| :---------------: | :-------------------------------------: |
|     Industry      |       Biotechnology, Health Care        |
|   Headquarters    | Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States |
|   Founded Date    |                  2010                   |
|     Employees     |                501-1000                 |
|  Funding Status   |                   IPO                   |
|   Total Funding   |                  $1.1B                  |
|     Investors     |                    6                    |
| Estimated Revenue |               $50M - $100M              |

&nbsp;

## 2. [AZTherapies](https://aztherapies.com/)

[AZTherapies](https://aztherapies.com/) is an advanced clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing new therapies that are **aimed at improving the quality of life of the elderly**.

[![AZTherapies](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neuropharmacology/aztherapies-video.jpg)](https://vimeo.com/153961980)
_Video: AZTherapies introduction_

The founder, [David R. Elmaleh, Ph.D](https://aztherapies.com/about-us/david-elmaleh-phd), is a **scientist, inventor, and serial entrepreneur** who has **over 130 publications and 120 patents** related to pharmaceuticals and imaging agents and has created six therapies valued at more than $1 billion.

The company's [pipeline](https://aztherapies.com/pipeline/) is currently developing drugs for early Alzheimer's disease, ALS, and ischemic stroke. **These neurodegenerative diseases have not yet developed effective treatment options, and the company is attracting worldwide attention.**

|                |                                       |
| :------------: | :-----------------------------------: |
|    Industry    |      Biotechnology, Health Care       |
|  Headquarters  |  Boston, Massachusetts, United States |
|  Founded Date  |                 2011                  |
|   Employees    |                 11-50                 |
| Funding Status |               Series C                |
| Total Funding  |                $99.8M                 |
|   Investors    |                   5                   |

&nbsp;

## [3. Intra-cellular Therapies](https://www.intracellulartherapies.com/)

[Intra-Cellular Therapies](https://www.intracellulartherapies.com/) is a biopharmaceutical company founded on [Dr. Paul Greengard’](https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/medicine/2000/greengard/facts/)s **Nobel Prize-winning research** that uncovered **how therapies affect the inner-working of cells in the body.** Using this intracellular approach, the company provides transformative therapies for people with complex mental and neurological disorders.

[![Intra-Cellular Therapies](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neuropharmacology/intra-cellular-video.jpg)](https://youtu.be/M4_JgS07hBs)
_Video: Intra-Cellular Therapies Introduction_

|                   |                                     |
| :---------------: | :---------------------------------: |
|    Technology     |           Small Molecules           |
|     Industry      |              PharmTech              |
|   Headquarters    |   New York, New York, United States |
|   Founded Date    |                2002                 |
|     Employees     |               51-100                |
|  Funding Status   |                 IPO                 |
|   Total Funding   |               $225.3M               |
|     Investors     |                  2                  |
| Estimated Revenue |              $1M - $10M             |

&nbsp;

## [4. BlackThornx Therapeutics](https://www.blackthornrx.com/)

[BlackThorn Therapeutics](https://www.blackthornrx.com/) is a **computational science company** **that develops proprietary therapies focused on neurobehavioral disorders**. The company has pioneered the development of a computational psychiatry platform to drive a robust pipeline of novel therapeutics. The company uses **a data-driven approach to solve patient selection problems and create treatments** **that improve patient outcomes.**

The company's approach to drug development is to use new tools and digital markers to identify the dysregulated brain circuits that cause neurological disorders. By capturing neurobehavioral disorders in this new way, more successful targeted therapies are being realized.

|                   |                                            |
| :---------------: | :----------------------------------------: |
|    Technology     |    Genetic Test & Molecular Diagnostics    |
|     Industry      |        End-to-end Drug Development         |
|   Headquarters    |   San Francisco, California, United States |
|   Founded Date    |                    2015                    |
|     Employees     |                   11-50                    |
|  Funding Status   |                  Series B                  |
|   Total Funding   |                   $138 M                   |
|     Investors     |                     14                     |
| Estimated Revenue |                 $1M - $10M                 |

&nbsp;

## [5. Biohaven Pharmaceutical](https://www.biohavenpharma.com/)

[Biohaven Pharmaceutical](https://www.biohavenpharma.com/) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company with proven leadership in industry and academic settings. Their portfolio is comprised of innovative, late-stage product candidates targeting neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases, including rare disorders.

The company is backed by **an entrepreneurial organizational structure** and an impressive breadth of experience in drug development, in addition to **the support of top-tier** **biopharmaceutical investors**. The company also has a strategy of combining **licensed intellectual property with internal development and research**, working with companies and institutions such as AstraZeneca AB, Yale University, and Massachusetts General Hospital.

[![Biohaven Pharmaceutical](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neuropharmacology/biohaven-video.jpg)](https://www.biohavenpharma.com/science-pipeline/cgrp)
_Video:Biohaven Pharmaceutical Introduction_

The momentum is unstoppable and since the IPO in 2017, multiple therapeutic platforms have been rapidly developed and multiple clinical trials are underway. [Nurtec™ODT](https://www.nurtec.com/) received FDA approval in February 2020 and is the only orally disintegrating [CGRP](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcitonin_gene-related_peptide) antagonist for the acute treatment of migraine.

|                   |                                         |
| :---------------: | :-------------------------------------: |
|     Industry      |       Biotechnology, Health Care        |
|   Headquarters    |   New Haven, Connecticut, United States |
|   Founded Date    |                  2013                   |
|     Employees     |                 501-1000                |
|  Funding Status   |                   IPO                   |
|   Total Funding   |                 $443.7M                 |
|     Investors     |                   12                    |
| Estimated Revenue |               $10M - $50M               |
| Employees Number  |                 501-1000                |

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this article, we introduced companies that utilize Neuropharmacology technology.

While there are many companies that develop new drugs, each of them offers new drugs for patients with different diseases, and there are also many unique companies that combine technology, such as BlackThorn Therapeutics, which uses data analysis technology to develop new drugs.

Their research and efforts may make it possible to treat diseases that have been said to be difficult to treat with drugs in the future.


 In this article, we will highlight five of the companies that are growing in size and taking unique approaches with neuropharmacology technology.

5 featured startups in Neuropharmacology


&nbsp;

The technology of brain imaging has been studied for more than 100 years. In recent years, the demand for this technology and its technological capabilities have increased, and BCI (Brain-Computer Interface), which connects the brain and computer, has transformed from basic research to medical applications, and then to a form that anyone can use in their daily lives.

The [meditation band "Neuphony"](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/ria-rustagi-neuphony/) and [CPU-powered device "Neurosity"](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/castillo-neurosity/), which we have interviewed before, are aimed at everyday use cases, and, in addition to them, many companies that provide BCI, such as [Nextmind](https://next-mind.com) and [Neurable](https://neurable.com), are aiming to create devices that are not only highly functional but also wearable and portable.

&nbsp;

Among them, the startup [Blueberry](https://blueberryx.com/), based in Toronto, Canada, provides BCIs that are especially small and wearable enough to be worn all day long.

This time, we had the opportunity to interview the founder of Blueberry, [John D. Chibuk](https://www.linkedin.com/in/chibuk/), about the technology behind the small size and excellent wearability, as well as their vision.

&nbsp;

## What is Blueberry?

Blueberry is a pre-seed stage startup founded in 2019 in Toronto, Canada, and led by CEO John David Chibuk and CTO [Dr. Steve Mann](https://www.linkedin.com/in/eyetap/).

The team has **exceptional technical skills** and **entrepreneurial spirits**. Chibuk, who we interviewed this time, founded an AI startup [kiwi.ai](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/kiwi-wearable-technologies) as CTO, focusing on emotion and movement, and the company finally got acquihired. He had also worked at several companies as a hardware engineer as well as a software engineer.

Dr. Steve received his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from MIT and founded [Meta View, Inc](https://www.metavision.com/), a startup that provides wearable devices and other hardware. He also advises [Muse](https://choosemuse.com/), a mindfulness company [with $30.4M in funding](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/interaxon), and is a professor of electrical engineering at Stanford University and other institutions.

&nbsp;

In addition to them, the team is composed of members with specialized knowledge, including [Dr. Kyle Mathewson](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-mathewson-856279124/), who conducts research in cognitive neuroscience at the University of Alberta.

&nbsp;

## Successful miniaturization and long-term monitoring using fNIRS technology

![Blueberry product](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0304/7905/7027/products/IMG_4151_edit_reduce_size_1024x1024@2x.jpg?v=1624298147)

_Image: Blueberry Pod_

Blueberry does not use EEG, a major technology that reads the brain's electrical signals, but [fNIRS](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Functional_near-infrared_spectroscopy), a technology that uses near-infrared light to read the state of the brain.

When near-infrared light is shone on the head, near-infrared light is absorbed by hemoglobin, a component of blood, but the degree of absorption of near-infrared light changes if the hemoglobin is oxygenated. fNIRS is a technology that can indirectly detect the state of brain activity by measuring the degree of reflected near-infrared light.

&nbsp;

Blueberry is one example of a company that has successfully transformed itself from a research-oriented company to an everyday-use consumer oriented company. fNIRS devices have **traditionally been expensive, helmet-shaped devices for researchers**.

> The majority of fNIRS technology to date has been done more on the research side.
> So there's a variety of research devices that are in the high $1,000 category, that provides a very well attenuated signal for a researcher. But, they're kind of like a full head setup.

&nbsp;

Chibuk explained to me that the fNIRS technology is **smaller and more portable than EEG and allows for a longer monitoring time**.

> Blueberry started with trying to understand how a person's mind changes throughout the day. And to be able to capture some sort of signal that represents a person's mind or perceived kind of mental activity, the sensing kind of format needed to be small enough and work in many environments.
> So fNIRS is perfectly suited for that kind of use case of a sensor that **can be worn throughout the entirety of the day**, and measure longer form change in brain activity.
> EEG is more suited for kind of immediate reaction-based measurements, whereas fNIRS will give a better indication of **a longer trend line or changes over**.

> Also, the main differentiators between Bluberry and other kinds of EEG devices are the ability to wear it in a format that can be **modular and small**, and are not specific or need to be in a large headband or over the ear headphones.
> Because it is a little pod of this size, it can be attached to glasses, or you could attach it to headphones, or you could wear it in a headband, but you're not constrained to wearing a massive device.
> You can take the thing off and put it in your pocket, which you can't really do with any EEG devices. So **the size** and the kind of **portability** of it is the main benefit.

In addition, fNIRS-based devices are relatively **cheaper** to make than EEG-based devices, and Blueberry's device can be purchased for only $195. fNIRS-based devices will become cheaper in the future, Chibuk said.

&nbsp;

## Analyzing brain activity associated with language processing from the temporal lobe using fNIRS, and measuring mental state

![Blueberry demo](https://miro.medium.com/max/1400/1*dxSfXPoOmTTHOjeJTowqGA.png)

![Interview zoom Blueberry](https://neurotechjp.com/img/chibuk-blueberry/interview-zoom.jpg)
_Image: in the interview session on Zoom_

Although the Blueberry is a small device, it does not lag behind in functionality.
Using fNIRS technology, it can measure not only **heart rate** but also **mental activity** such as energy and stress.

&nbsp;

The [temporal lobe](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temporal_lobe), which is the area that Blueberry measures, is responsible for processing related to language. In addition to reading and writing, the temporal lobe is also activated by even the sound of a fire truck.

However, research has shown that the amount of activity is reduced for more proficient actions such as speaking about ordinary things, and **mental activity can be accurately measured based on the amount of activity**.

> Less activity can be an indication of more proficient effort. You don't actually need as much activation to speak or say the things.
> So low amount of activation can be a very positive indicator for an individual.

&nbsp;

![Blueberry mobile app](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0304/7905/7027/files/blueberry-app-1_9a843f0f-86aa-4d5b-8872-1b069505edbc_1080x.png?v=1620850212)
_Image: Mobile app Blueberry_

Blueberry also provides mobile and web apps that allow users to view their measured data at hand. Users can also access their data through web APIs or send their data to Apple's HealthKit.

&nbsp;

## A product realized through more than 100 trials and errors.

![Blueberry journey](https://neurotechjp.com/img/chibuk-blueberry/journey.jpg)

_Image: Blueberry journey extracted from [the website](https://docsend.com/view/42tndxnakg3frn3k)._

Blueberry was founded about two years ago but has been gaining momentum, with the launch of several apps and developer kits in addition to devices.

What has its trajectory been like?

&nbsp;

Chibuk told me that it took more than **100 trials** to finally make the product what it is today.

He said there were three factors that he struggled with: **appearance, accuracy, and whether the data is what the user wants**.

> **Style** is really important for me, enabling people to want it outside of their home. And that was a really hard thing to accomplish.
> **Comfort** is also really important. If you're not used to wearing glasses or having something on your head throughout the entirety of the day, it had to feel good.

> Having a real-time feedback mechanism is very beneficial to people, if it works 100% of the time. If it's not true, then they have questions and they get more confused, and it doesn't become as helpful.
> So **getting that feedback is perfectly fine-tuned** was super important.

> The last category was **the measurement needs to be relative to the individual**.
> So if I feel that the numeric representation is roughly representative of myself, that is much more important to the individual than some mass measurement.
> So I care more that it is measuring or giving me metrics or analysis that I can relatively compare myself to.

&nbsp;

## The user is the exclusive owner of the data. Privacy protection technology required.

Chibuk told me Blueberry allows various apps and tools to access your data, but **the data is managed by the individual user**, and the user can delete or not store the data themselves.

> The base principle is that **person who is wearing the device is the owner of the data.**
> Ensuring that a person has full control of their information, to be able to export, delete, permanently delete their account, or just not send data to a backup server is really important.

&nbsp;

Also, in the future, he said, we should incorporate the cutting edge **encryption technology**, such as that used in chat apps, to make it even more secure.

> Because this stuff becomes more and more accurate over time, the sensitivity of the information becomes more impactful and needs to be guarded carefully based on the individual.
> I think we need to be more fidelity in our data management, using **end-to-end encryption**, as is done in chat apps like [Signal](https://signal.org/en/).

&nbsp;

## For more seamless and faster communication.

The Blueberry is a BCI that can be worn on a daily basis, then how should a BCI be used in general?

&nbsp;

Chibuk replied that **understanding neurological symptoms** could be the best use case.

> Right now, the most poll that I've seen in the market has been on understanding neurological conditions. Being able to measure a person's brain to more properly assess and help people
> that are on a trajectory path of needing support, then there's a lot of value to this type of data that is collected, if certain indicators or measurements can be utilized to better understand the person.
> So that kind of medical, self-assessment data capture is probably the most pertinent immediate area.

He said that there are not only medical use cases but also many non-medical use cases, such as the button manipulation in the brain that [Neuralink](https://neuralink.com) does.

![Neuralink demo](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-of-interest/neuralink.gif)
_Demo Neuralink: Control the cursor by just thinking._

Faster and newer user experiences that connect the brain to the computer are being offered to individuals, but what lies ahead?

&nbsp;

Chibuk answered, **in the future, when those use cases are realized, we will be able to communicate more seamlessly and faster** by transmitting our senses to others, in other words, we will be able to do things like **brain-to-brain telepathy**.

> BCI is able to more quickly respond to our perceptive state.
> And we can transfer that information to other people, it will create **new modalities of communication** that we didn't have before. So whether that is visual, auditory, or some other form that has not yet come to fruition,if we can transfer information between one another in a more cohesive, **seamless** way.
> We believe that will be the trajectory for brain-computer interfaces.

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

This time, we had the pleasure of interviewing John D. Chibuk, the founder of Bluberry, a company that provides ultra-small size BCI.

&nbsp;

Like Blueberry, which has succeeded in miniaturization and long-term monitoring using fNIRS technology, technologies that replace conventional methods may further accelerate the field of Neurotech.


This time, we interviewed John D. Chibuk, the founder of Blueberry, about the technology behind its miniaturization and wearability, as well as his vision for the company.

All-day wearable. Small-sized bio-sensing BCI "Blueberry" | John D. Chibuk


&nbsp;

## Introduction

Cognitive assessment & enhancement is **the assessment and enhancement of cognitive function**, and refers to technologies that assess cognitive function in some way and enhance that assessed function through the application of neuroscience.

As introduced in [10 major types of Neurotech ~ First half ~](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/10-major-types-of-neurotech/),cognitive function usually declines with age, but **new neurotechnologies are beginning to make it possible to improve brain health and performance.**

&nbsp;

Research has shown that cognitive function can be assessed and enhanced through various activities, including meditation, video games, innovative drugs, nutritional supplements, brain stimulation, exercise, music, and cognitive training.

When the cognitive function is enhanced, the brain becomes more efficient and can better solve complex problems and understand new perspectives.

![Cognitive assessment](<https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/JMief1rFR5wFRogKp5KlMfHaFXk=/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/alzheimers-and-montreal-cognitive-assessment-moca-98617-5bb7c858c9e77c0051582af1.png>)

This article will clarify the specific cases and market scale of the technology by introducing five representative startups.

&nbsp;

## [1. MindStorng](https://mindstrong.com/)

[MindStrong](https://mindstrong.com/) provides virtual therapy and psychiatric services that **allow users to assess their mental health status through actions such as swiping and tapping on a smartphone.** The service is currently only available in the United States, but if you qualify for Mindstrong through your health insurance plan, you can use the service from the comfort of your home, all at no additional cost.

[![Thomas Mindstrong](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-cognitive-assessment/mindstrong-ted-video.jpg)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeZ-U0pj9LI)
_Video: Thomas, Co-founder at Mindstrong, TED Talk_

The co-founder, Thomas Insel, is a neuroscientist who served as the director of NIMH for 13 years. [MIT Technology Review](https://www.technologyreview.com/2018/10/15/66443/the-smartphone-app-that-can-tell-youre-depressed-before-you-know-it-yourself/) featured some of the episodes from their early days.

> Verily was trying to figure out how to use phones to learn about depression or other mental health conditions. But Insel says that at first, what Dagum presented—more a concept than a show of actual data—didn’t seem like a big deal. “The bells didn’t go off about what he had done,” he says.

> Over several meetings, however, Insel realized that Dagum could do something he believed nobody in the field of mental health had yet been able to accomplish. He had figured out smartphone signals that correlated strongly with a person’s cognitive performance—the kind of thing usually possible only through those lengthy lab tests. What’s more, he was collecting these signals for days, weeks, and months on end, making it possible, in essence, to look at a person’s brain function continuously and objectively. “It’s like having a continuous glucose monitor in the world of diabetes,” Insel says.

&nbsp;

[![Mindstrong](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-cognitive-assessment/mindstrong-video.jpg)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHd6xh7HcDM)
_Video: Mindstrong introduction_

Mindstrong is working to reshape mental health through data measurement, data science, and improved virtual care models.

|                   |                                          |
| :---------------: | :--------------------------------------: |
|     Industry      |               Mental Health              |
|   Headquarters    | Mountain View, California, United States |
|   Founded Date    |                   2014                   |
|     Employees     |                101 - 250                 |
|  Funding Status   |                 Series C                 |
|   Total Funding   |                  $160M                   |
|     Investors     |                    11                    |
| Estimated Revenue |                $1M - $10M                |

&nbsp;

## 2. [Neurotrack](https://neurotrack.com/home)

[Neurotrack](https://neurotrack.com/home) is a company that develops digital cognitive health solutions to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The company has two products: a cognitive function test and a brain care program, **both validated in clinical trials**. **The cognitive function test can be conducted remotely from a PC and uses a computer's built-in camera to analyze eye contact and automatically score the user's cognitive function.** The Brain Care Program is a mobile app on smartphones that allows users to test their cognitive function, view their scores, and will also provide coaching services.

According to an [interview with CEO Elli Kaplan](https://techblitz.com/neurotrack/), co-founder Dr. Stuart Zola affiliate with the Emory University School of Medicine. His research there is the basis for these technologies. The company has already raised [$21 million in Series C funding](https://medcitynews.com/2019/06/cognitive-health-assessment-startup-neurotrack-raises-21m-series-c/?rf=1). It provides services in Japan, where the population is expected to age, through business partnerships with Sompo Holdings and Dai-ichi Life.

[![Neurotrack](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-cognitive-assessment/neurotrack-video.jpg)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7obt3JE-ZM)
_Video: Neurotrack introduction_

|                   |                                         |
| :---------------: | :-------------------------------------: |
|     Industry      |     Cognitive assessment & enhancing    |
|   Headquarters    | Redwood City, California, United States |
|   Founded Date    |                  2012                   |
|     Employees     |                 11 - 50                 |
|  Funding Status   |                Series C                 |
|   Total Funding   |                 $50.4M                  |
|     Investors     |                   15                    |
| Estimated Revenue |               $1M - $10M                |

&nbsp;

## 3. [Virtuleap](https://virtuleap.com/about/)

[Virtuleap](https://virtuleap.com/about/) is a VR startup dedicated to the health and education area based in Lisbon, Portugal. Their **"Enhance VR" allows users to strengthen their memory and cognitive abilities while having fun by wearing a VR headset and playing mini-games.** It also enables users to perform various tests such as attention, problem-solving, motor direction, motor skills, information processing, and to check their progress with their personalized reports.

[![Viruleap](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-cognitive-assessment/virtuleap-video.jpg)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Efs-DiU8hY)
_Video: Virtuleap introduction_

Virtuleap is a notable startup that aims to boost the industry of cognitive assessment and training with the help of new technologies such as VR and artificial intelligence.

|                   |                          |
| :---------------: | :----------------------: |
|     Industry      |       Mental Health      |
|   Headquarters    | Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal |
|   Founded Date    |           2018           |
|     Employees     |          1 - 10          |
|  Funding Status   |           Seed           |
|   Total Funding   |          $1.1M           |
|     Investors     |            9             |
| Estimated Revenue |        $1M - $10M        |

&nbsp;

## [4. NeuroGeneces](https://neurogeneces.com/)

[NeuroGeneces](https://neurogeneces.com/) is a company that is dedicated to applying the latest sleep science to reveal how sleep affects health and performance.
NeuroGeneces offers **smartphone apps and IoT devices that improve memory and cognition by enhancing sleep quality.**

[CEO Karen Crowe](http://stemsw.com/053-the-science-of-sleep-with-karen-crow/) started her career in management consulting, ran sales operations for Fortune 1000 clients at Google, and has over 500 employees. At Google, she was responsible for sales operations for Fortune 1000 clients and managed more than 500 workers and $1.3 billion in annual sales. She has received the Google Founders Award for her contributions and entrepreneurial achievements.

![NeuroGeneces](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/594a9b39d482e93f89a9764e/1515107751233-YAD9YTVHI0J5C594HJR0/headband+photo+sensors.png)

![NeuroGeneces from webpage](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-cognitive-assessment/neurogeneces-exp.jpg)

&nbsp;

|                |                                     |
| :------------: | :---------------------------------: |
|    Industry    |              Neurotech              |
|  Headquarters  | Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States |
|  Founded Date  |                2016                 |
|   Employees    |               1 - 10                |
| Funding Status |           Private Equity            |
|   Investors    |                  1                  |

&nbsp;

## [5. humm](https://thinkhumm.com/humm-patch)

"[humm](https://thinkhumm.com/humm-patch)", which graduated from the UC Berkeley's acceleration program, is a startup developing a wearable patch that improves memory. Using transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), a cutting-edge neuroscience technique, **the patch can temporarily increase the intensity of electrical signals in the brain and enhance the amount of information temporarily stored, called working memory, when worn for 15 minutes.** The company has already raised $3.1M in a seed round and is currently accepting beta testers on its website. The patches cost $5 each, about the same price as a high-quality cup of coffee, and they aim for mass production.

![humm](https://cdn.the-scientist.com/assets/articleNo/67474/hImg/37495/banners-brainboost-x.webp)

&nbsp;

|                   |                                     |
| :---------------: | :---------------------------------: |
|     Industry      |              Neurotech              |
|   Headquarters    | Berkeley, California, United States |
|   Founded Date    |                2017                 |
|     Employees     |                 10                  |
|  Funding Status   |                 Seed                |
|   Total Funding   |                $3.1M                |
|     Investors     |                  2                  |
| Estimated Revenue |             $10M - $50M             |

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

This article introduced five neurotech startups that apply cognitive assessment & enhancing technology. There is a wide range of funding from seed to series C, and we expect to see more startups in various industries using this technology in the future. NeurotechJP will continue to follow these companies to see how they exit.


This article will clarify the specific cases and market scale of the technology by introducing five representative startups.

5 featured startups in Cognitive assessment & enhancing


&nbsp;

When we are walking on the street or working, our brain is always "active". The nerve cells in the brain generate electrical signals and activate them, and we carry out various activities through the complex interplay and propagation of countless nerve cells.

On the other hand, is it possible to expand the range of our "activities" by deliberately generating electrical signals in neurons?

&nbsp;

Neuromodulation is one of the 10 Neurotech technologies that are introduced in [10 major types of Neurotech ~first half ~](https://neurotechjp.com/blog/10-major-types-of-neurotech/).

Neuromodulation is a technology that alters neural activity by applying safe stimuli, such as electrical stimulation, to specific nerve cells in the body. The stimulation can be used to cure brain diseases and increase energy, and so on.

In this article, we will introduce five featured startups that are using the technology of neuromodulation to bring about significant changes in our lives.

&nbsp;

## Introduction

There are more than **60 startups** using neuromodulation, a technology that uses stimuli to alter our neural activity, around the world, some of which have already gone IPO. By 2022, the market is expected to be worth **$13 billion**, and is expected to be one of the most economically impactful technologies in Neurotech.

&nbsp;

![Neuromodulation types](https://neurotechjp.com/img/10-major-types-of-neurotech/neuromodulation-en.jpg)
_Neuromodulation types_

&nbsp;

Neuromodulation can be broadly classified into five technologies as shown in the figure above. There are invasive technologies that implant electrodes in the body, as well as non-invasive technologies that stimulate from outside the body.

The applications are not limited to **medical purposes** for curing brain diseases such as epilepsy, but there are also many use cases for **consumer use** such as improving sleep quality and recharging energy.

&nbsp;

## 5 featured startups

### [1. Inspire Medical Systems](https://www.inspiresleep.com/)

[Inspire Medical Systems](https://www.inspiresleep.com/) provides Inspire, **the only FDA-approved sleep apnea treatment**. Users implant the tiny Inspire device in their bodies and turn it on with a remote control when starting to sleep, allowing the Inspire to open their airways and allow them to breathe normally.

[![Inspire](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neuromodulation/inspire-video.jpg)](https://professionals.inspiresleep.com/mri-info/)
_Video: Inspire introduction_

Until now, special hoses and masks have been used to treat sleep apnea, but they have the disadvantage of being noisy and inconvenient to carry around. With Inspire, however, the user can use the device with just one button without making any noise. In addition, since all you need is a palm-sized remote control and the device inside your body, it is easy to carry around.

As a result, they succeeded in reducing the number of apneas during sleep by 79%, and 90% of people who felt that their partner snored too loudly reported that they were no longer bothered by the loudness thanks to Inspire.

|                   |                 |
| :---------------: | :-------------: |
|     Industry      |   Healthcare    |
|   Headquarters    | Minnesota, U.S. |
|   Founded Date    |      2007       |
|     Employees     |    101 - 250    |
|  Funding Status   |       IPO       |
|   Total Funding   |      $186M      |
|     Investors     |       10        |
| Estimated Revenue |   $10M - $50M   |

&nbsp;

### [2. Axonics Modulation Technologies](https://www.axonics.com/)

[Axonics Modulation Technologies](https://www.axonics.com/) provides [Sacral Nerve Stimulation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacral_nerve_stimulation), **therapy for bladder and bowel control.** By implanting a small rechargeable nerve stimulator in the lower back and applying electrical stimulation through remote control to the sacral nerve, which innervates the pelvic region, it is possible to improve symptoms around the bladder and bowel, such as overactive bladder causing sudden urination and bowel obstruction causing bowel movements.

![Axonics How it works](https://www.fda.gov/files/axonicssacralneurosys.jpg)
_Image: How Axonics works_

The stimulator can be used for at least 15 years without needing replacement, and a dedicated external charger can be used to charge the device immediately.

|                   |                         |
| :---------------: | :---------------------: |
|     Industry      |       Healthcare        |
|   Headquarters    | Irvine, California U.S. |
|   Founded Date    |          2012           |
|     Employees     |        101 - 250        |
|  Funding Status   |           IPO           |
|   Total Funding   |         $604.4M         |
|     Investors     |            8            |
| Estimated Revenue |      $100M - $500M      |

&nbsp;

### [3. Thync](http://thync.com)

[Thync](http://thync.com/) provides **non-invasive devices** **that can help anyone improve their brain function through electrical stimulation**. Currently, they provide a wearable patch [Feelzing](https://feelzing.com/) that delivers electrical stimulation to the nerves and can increase energy, clarity, and attention for several hours. It's very easy to use, just stick the patch behind your ear for 7 minutes of stimulation and you will feel the effects and can use it again and again.

![FeelZing](http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0525/0626/3740/products/1_1_1200x1200.png)
_Image: FeelZing Product_

[![FeelZing video](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-neuromodulation/feelzing-video.jpg)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyplMNfDrto)
_Video: FeelZing introduction_

Thync has been researching how to democratize access to the benefits of neurostimulation for everyone since 2010, and currently reports that 50% of users feel improved attention and 37% feel increased motivation.

|                |                               |
| :------------: | :---------------------------: |
|    Industry    |           Neurotech           |
|  Headquarters  | SanFrancisco, California U.S. |
|  Founded Date  |             2011              |
|   Employees    |            1 - 10             |
| Funding Status |           Series B            |
| Total Funding  |             $13M              |
|   Investors    |               3               |

&nbsp;

### [4. Electrocore](https://www.electrocore.com/)

[Electrocore](https://www.electrocore.com/) provides [gammaCore](https://www.gammacore.com/), a non-invasive device that stimulates the [vagus nerve](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vagus_nerve), which connects body parts to the brain, to **treat headaches and other symptoms**. gammaCore can be used to prevent and relieve cluster headaches, as well as treat and prevent migraines.

![gammaCore](https://www.electrocore.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/article5_1440x634px.jpg)
_Image: gammaCore product_

|                |                  |
| :------------: | :--------------: |
|    Industry    |    Healthcare    |
|  Headquarters  | New Jersey, U.S. |
|  Founded Date  |       2005       |
|   Employees    |     11 - 50      |
| Funding Status |       IPO        |
| Total Funding  |     $145.5M      |
|   Investors    |        6         |

&nbsp;

### [5. Modius Health](https://www.modiushealth.com/)

[Modius Health](https://www.modiushealth.com/) provides non-invasive devices to improve health and wellness through electrical stimulation of the head for a variety of applications. By delivering the appropriate stimulation for each application, it is possible to relieve lack of sleep ([Modius Sleep](https://www.modiushealth.com/products/modius-sleep)), lose weight ([Modius Slim](https://www.modiushealth.com/products/modius)), and reduce stress ([Modius Stress](https://www.modiushealth.com/products/modius-stress)).

![Modius](<https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3VOX0Yhk--lmfE2t2Iq99CP9zY0=/0x0:3000x3000/1200x800/filters:focal(1260x1260:1740x1740)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58268935/PRODUCT_SHOT_Modius_Headset_3.0.jpg>)
_Image: Modius product_

The founder, Jason MacKeown, has work experience in the medical field. With his background in neuroscience, he created a product that is currently being used by users in over 80 countries.

|                |                           |
| :------------: | :-----------------------: |
|    Industry    |         Neurotech         |
|  Headquarters  | SanDiego, California U.S. |
|  Founded Date  |           2013            |
|   Employees    |          11 - 50          |
| Funding Status |    Equity crowdfunding    |
| Total Funding  |           $1.6M           |
|   Investors    |             1             |

&nbsp;

## In conclusion

In this article, we introduced startups active in the Neuromodulation market, which has been growing steadily in recent years. While many companies deal with this technology as a medical device, some startups such as Thync and Modius Health are gaining momentum in providing products for the general public who do not have diseases.

As science continues to develop at a rapid pace, the number of companies providing us with innovative products based on new discoveries in neuroscience will continue to increase.


In this article, we will introduce five featured startups that are using the technology of neuromodulation to bring about significant changes in our lives.

5 featured startups in Neuromodulation


&nbsp;

"What new technology will replace the iPhone?"

&nbsp;

If you're a tech geek, you've probably thought about this at least once.

The iPhone, which was not available 15 years ago but is now in everyone's hands, is a revolutionary device that opened a whole new market of mobile apps and dramatically changed the way people interact with the world.

[Neurosity](http://neurosity.co), a New York-based startup, has a vision to further unlock the potential of our experience by using BCI technology, which connects the brain and computer.

These days, Neurosity is gaining momentum with the March launch of [CROWN](https://neurosity.co/tech-specs), an EEG device with a CPU powerful as a MacBook Air.

&nbsp;

For this interview, we had the opportunity to talk with [Alex Castillo](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexcas/), the founder of Neurosity, about the appeal of CROWN and his vision to change our lives with BCI.

&nbsp;

## What is Neurosity?

![Neurosity logo](https://neurotechjp.com/img/castillo-neurosity/neurosity-logo.png)

&nbsp;

Neurosity was co-founded in 2018 by [AJ Keller](https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewjaykeller/), the CEO, and Alex Castillo, the CTO, and is currently in its seed startup phase.

The team has excellent teamwork across a wide range of hardware and software. AJ, who is responsible for all of the hardware side, studied computer engineering in college and then worked at Boeing to automate construction of planes and robots. AJ has a professional background in hardware, while Castillo has worked as a software engineer for 15 years at Netflix, [GrubHub](http://grubhub.com/), and other companies. Based on his vast knowledge and experience, he is responsible for all of the software development at Neurosity. Their team also has neuroscientists from UC Berkeley, as well as people with divserse skills necessary to run the interdisciplinary business.

&nbsp;

Although Castillo has been working in the software industry for a long time, **he was introduced to the concept of Neurotech only about five years ago, when a family member or friend had a mental illness.**

> "I've been really studying and am interested in how people interact with these applications or just with computers in general.
> At the same time, I did grow with family and friends suffering from mental illnesses like epilepsy, and it made me very curious to learn about the brain because of the impact of cost in my life and my family's life.
> So when I had the chance to try out available technology for brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), I knew I just had to get involved."

&nbsp;

## Strengths of design and processing power "CROWN"

![CROWN](https://neurotechjp.com/img/castillo-neurosity/neurosity-device.jpg)

&nbsp;

CROWN, a non-invasive device announced in March, uses eight sensors to detect brain waves, and through the dedicated "Neurosity Shift app," it can measure your level of concentration and relaxation.

Also, by linking the app to your Spotify account, you can **discover songs that increase your productivity based on your brain activity, and mute your notifications based on your level of concentration**. These features will lead you to a "**[flow state](<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flow_(psychology)>)**" where you are completely immersed in the moment; in other words, it gets you into the "zone."

&nbsp;

Castillo explained to me that the strengths of CROWN are **the accuracy of its sensor locations, which are calculated backward from the intended use, and its design, which maintains simplicity**.

> "EEG has been researched for many decades, and you have to wonder why people are not wearing it.
> So what we've done that has never been done before is that we have made the device smart.
> ...
> We just didn't build a device and then figure out the applications, we started thinking,
> 'How do we want to offer value to people's lives?'
> 'How do we want people to use a device?'
> So we had basically our product or the ideas that we wanted to implement, and we started designing from the ground up based on the sensors on the head.
> We used a mannequin for the different sensor locations that we wanted to tackle. And then we designed all around that."

&nbsp;

Like CROWN, there are many BCIs in the world that cover the four brain regions of the frontal, occipital, parietal, and temporal lobes, but few of them have a simple design that can be worn in daily life.

&nbsp;

Castillo also said that another advantage is that it has **the processing power as powerful as a MacBook Air.**

> "When the first iPhone came out, it opened all new possibilities.
> And certainly, you were not just using a phone, but you were using an operating system that had many different applications.
> We have done that with the CROWN. So the CROWN also has CPUs, RAM, and enough computing power to run machine learning and very complex processing algorithms. So we are able to also run applications on the device."

&nbsp;

In contrast to the conventional solution of acquiring data from a device with embedded Bluetooth and performing machine learning and other processing on a dedicated smartphone application, CROWN has the potential to operate and process everything which can be performed within the device without the need for a dedicated smartphone application.

&nbsp;

## Journey through the device interface design

![CROWN](https://neurotechjp.com/img/castillo-neurosity/neurosity-device-2.jpg)

&nbsp;

CROWN has great functionality and is simple enough to be used by anyone in their daily lives, but a lot of thought and effort went into designing its interface.

> "In the journey for interfaces, initially, I always thought the form factor could be a dealbreaker for most people.
> But if we start to look back at how we came with headphones which were invented many decades ago, your headphones were very heavy and much bigger. However, they allowed humans to have the ability that no other device gave them. What happened was that across time you can see the headphones getting smaller, lighter.
> ...
> So does it really matter much about the size, look, and feel?
> I think to an extent, but I think if we give them something that they can basically put on, and it gives them some kind of ability or advantage over our superpower, people will definitely be focused on what you can do for them.
> ...
> So we're **packaging technology that is as powerful as a MacBook Air all in a slim form factor.**
> And that's just like our start design."

&nbsp;

When it comes to designing future interfaces, Castillo explained to me that **the priority will be to focus on the needs of the user and then explore ways to make the device smaller.**

> "Not too far from now, we're going to have devices that you can barely see that are going to be super tiny.
> So we're more focused on how we can give value to people today that they cannot get through other means. And then we are going to continue progressing and learn design and manufacturing processes to get that technology as small as possible."

&nbsp;

## Issues first, not technology first

In addition to the EEG device CROWN and its dedicated application, Neurosity also provides an **SDK for developers** to create their own applications integrated with CROWN.

Many developers have already developed their own apps using the SDK and CROWN. Castillo told me, "**as more people develop and try out their own apps using the SDK, we will find use cases that people will want to use every day.**"

&nbsp;

So how do we find a killer application?

> "It's really by thinking outside the box, not the obvious that a theoretical mind-reading device could give you.
> But it's by also starting to think about **what's going on in the world right now.** For example, there's a lot of people with burnout, there's a lot of people that are not able to be productive at work."

&nbsp;

Many people have difficulty switching their minds from one thing to another.

Castillo said that the Neurosity Shift app, which induces such people into a flow state, is tackling just the first of several challenges that society is facing.

&nbsp;

## The key to the development of BCIs is how to bring research into the real world.

There is a lot of research being done in the field of neurotech around the world, and many startups in the field, including Neurosity, have emerged since.

How will the BCI that connects the brain and computer develop in the future?

&nbsp;

Castillo replied that it is extremely important **not only to have good research but also to practically apply it into our lives.**

> "I'm super excited about some of the new research like the research that has shown how you're able to predict epilepsy seizures up to one hour before they happen.
> But how can we put that to the real world?

> Because we trid to do that with all the devices that were in the market before we started working on hardware.
> And they were not consumer-friendly. They didn't even look friendly enough for someone to want to put down their hat.
> So I think creating the brain-computer interface that is not meant or designed to work in a lab was the first step and we accomplished that."

&nbsp;

## In conclusion

This time, I had the opportunity to interview Castillo from Neurosity, a company that offers CROWN which is an EEG device with excellent design and processing power.

&nbsp;

The day may soon come when EEG devices like CROWN, which combine wearability and functionality as a stand-alone device, will be incorporated into our daily lives as "mobile devices" that we can easily use every day.

&nbsp;


For this interview, we had the opportunity to talk to Alex Castillo, the founder of Neurosity, who has been gaining momentum since the launch of CROWN, an EEG device with a CPU as powerful as a MacBook Air, in March.

Unlock our potential with a well designed & powerful BCI | Alex Castillo at Neurosity


&nbsp;

Neurotech - the word itself combines neuroscience and technology. A truly interdisciplinary field, neurotech now sits at the frontier of science, technology, and medicine to deliver new ways to understand, interface, and treat the brain. 

Multiple fields combine to deliver multiple perspective into the brain, but what exactly are the applications that neurotechnology uniquely opens?

In this series, we explain the high-level technical overviews of the 10 major types of neurotechnologies today.

&nbsp;

This article will cover the first five, check back for the other five technologies.

![Neurotech 10 technologies](https://neurotechjp.com/img/10-major-types-of-neurotech/neurotech-10-tech.jpg)

&nbsp;

## 1. Cognitive assessment & enhancing

![Cognitive assessment and enhancing](<https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/JMief1rFR5wFRogKp5KlMfHaFXk=/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/alzheimers-and-montreal-cognitive-assessment-moca-98617-5bb7c858c9e77c0051582af1.png>)

&nbsp;

Cognitive assessment and enhancing is **a practice designed to help people improve cognitive development, social cognition, and vocational capabilities**.

&nbsp;

Over the past 30 years, amazing discoveries in neuroscience have opened up the future of cognitive functions. While cognitive function typically declines with age, **new neurotechnologies can counteract the effects of aging on brain health and performance.**

New research has shown that cognitive function can be assessed and enhanced through a variety of activities, including meditation, video games, smart drugs, nutritional supplements, nutrition, brain stimulation, exercise, music, and cognitive training.

When cognitive function is enhanced, the brain becomes more efficient, allowing us to solve complex problems and understand new perspectives.

Some of the leading companies are [Virtuleap](https://virtuleap.com/), [Neurotrack](https://neurotrack.com/), [Mindstrong Health](https://mindstrong.com/), among others.

[![Viruleap Youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/10-major-types-of-neurotech/virtuleap.jpg)](https://youtu.be/6Efs-DiU8hY)
_Youtube: Virtuleap |　 Service introduction video_

&nbsp;

## 2. Neuropharmacology

![Neuropharmacology](https://d2jx2rerrg6sh3.cloudfront.net/image-handler/ts/20180521085503/ri/200/picture/2018/5/shutterstock_643085443.jpg)

&nbsp;

Neuropharmacology **aims to treat neurological diseases and improve patient mood**. Hence, it applies to everything from drugs prescribed to help the sick to the recreational "smart drugs".

&nbsp;

Neuropharmacology is broadly divided into **molecular neuropharmacology** and **behavioral neuropharmacology**.

Molecular neuropharmacology is the study of how drugs affect cellular functions and neural mechanisms with the goal of developing drugs with beneficial neurological effects, while behavioral neuropharmacology is the study of how drugs affect human behavior, including how drug dependence and addiction affect the human brain.

&nbsp;

Researchers at pharmaceutical companies, universities, and research hospitals **spend more than $137 billion per year to discover new neurotherapeutics**, and the pipeline is extremely inefficient, currently taking **more than 12 years and $1.5 billion to bring a drug to market**. The initial phase of R&D, before clinical trials begin, typically takes 3.5 years.

Some of the leading companies are [Sage Therapeutics](https://www.sagerx.com/), [AZTherapies](https://aztherapies.com/), [BlackThornx](https://www.blackthornrx.com/), among others.

&nbsp;

## 3. Neuromodulation

Neuromodulation is "**manipulating nerves and neurons through the delivery of artificial stimulus.**" Examples of this would be to alter neural activity by applying electrical or chemical stimuli to specific nerve sites in the body.

Neuromodulation is a diverse field, with applications ranging from diagnosis and treatment of various diseases to tools for medical and neuroscience research. It also includes pharmacological stimulation with drugs.

Each type of stimulation has different characteristics.

&nbsp;

![Neuromodulation](https://neurotechjp.com/img/10-major-types-of-neurotech/neuromodulation-en.jpg)
_Neuromodulation stimulation types_

&nbsp;

|                                       |                                                    For Whom                                                    |                                                   Content                                                   |
| :-----------------------------------: | :------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------: | :---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------: |
|      **Deep Brain Stimulation**       |                                 Movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease                                 |             Electrical stimulation to a specific location in the brain via implanted electrodes             |
|     **Sacral Nerve Stimulation**      |               People with bladder symptoms that don't respond to medication or physical therapy                |                         Changes the function of the sacral nerve near the tailbone.                         |
|      **Spinal Cord Stimulation**      |                                            People with chronic pain                                            | Electrical stimulation with electrodes placed on specific spinal cord regions that may be the cause of pain |
|      **Vagus Nerve Stimulation**      |                                      People with depression and epilepsy                                       |     Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve, which is associated with depression and other disorders      |
| **Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation** | People with neurological symptoms such as headaches, and people with psychological symptoms such as depression |  Weak electric current generated by the sudden magnetic field change, which excites neurons in the brain.   |

&nbsp;

According to a market study by NeuroTech Reports, the global neuromodulation market is expected to grow from $8.4 billion in 2018 to **$13.3 billion by 2022**.

Some of the leading companies are [Thync](https://thync.com/), [Axonic](https://www.axonics.com/), [ElectroCore](https://www.electrocore.com/), among others.

![Thync image](https://images.techhive.com/images/article/2016/05/thync-main-100662444-primary.idge.jpg)
_Image: Thync device_

&nbsp;

## 4. Neuromonitoring / imaging

Neuromonitoring/imaging is **a way to scan the brain and spinal cord**.

&nbsp;

![Neuromonitoring](https://neurotechjp.com/img/10-major-types-of-neurotech/neuromonitoring.jpg)
_Neuromonitoring/imaging types_

&nbsp;

### Neuroimaging

1. **MRI scan**

   MRI scan, which stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain and brain stem.

2. **PET scan**

   PET scan, which stands for Positron Emission Tomography, is a tomography scan using a radioactive tracer to examine the brain for disease or damage.

3. **CT scan**

   CT scan, which stands for Computed Tomography, is a type of X-ray examination that produces a three-dimensional image of the head, called a "slice".

&nbsp;

### Neuromonitoring

1. **EEG (ElectroEncephaloGraphy)**

   EEG can measure the electrical activity occurring in different corticies of the brain. EEG is used to record brain processes that occur immediately after visual or auditory stimulation, but it can also monitor brain states that reflect interaction and motivation over longer periods.

2. **MEG (MagnetoEncephaloGraphy)**

   MEG is a functional nervous technology that maps brain activity by recording the magnetic field produced by naturally occurring electrical currents in the brain using a highly sensitive magnetometer.

   While EEG detects the electrical activity produced by neural excitation, MEG captures the magnetic field produced by neural activity; MEG measurements are usually performed in a shielded chamber so that external magnetic fields do not interfere with the data recording.

   The biggest advantage is that MEG combines high temporal resolution similar to EEG, but with high spatial resolution.

&nbsp;

\*Temporal resolution: How short a time interval can be measured.

\*Spatial resolution: How well we can distinguish even the smallest objects.
&nbsp;

Some of the leading companies are [InSightec](https://www.insightec.com/), [NeuroMetrix](https://www.neurometrix.com/), among others.

[![Insightec Youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/10-major-types-of-neurotech/insightec.jpg)](https://youtu.be/O_PL8_bDHOY)
_Youtube: Insightec 　| introduction video_

## 5. NeuroFeedback

![Neurofeedback](https://www.frontiersin.org/files/Articles/527026/fnhum-14-00192-HTML/image_m/fnhum-14-00192-g001.jpg)
_Neurofeedback flow_

&nbsp;

Neurofeedback is a technology **that visualizes brainwave activity in real-time to understand and train the brain, thereby changing brainwaves and leading to self-regulation of brain functions.**

By showing information about the patient's brain wave activity, the patient can learn to change his or her brain waves. Neurofeedback can be used to treat a variety of neurological conditions, such as ADHD, as well as to improve concentration and work productivity.

&nbsp;

According to Market Watch reports, the neurofeedback market is projected to be worth $43 million in 2019 and **$66 million by 2026**.

Some of the leading companies are [Muse by InteraXon](https://choosemuse.com/), [Myndlift](https://www.myndlift.com/), [BrainCo](https://www.brainco.tech/), among others.

![Muse device](https://choosemuse.com/app/uploads/2018/10/muse-2-facebook-3.jpg)
_Image: Muse device_

&nbsp;

## In conclusion

In this article, we introduced the first five of the ten technologies that represent Neurotech.

As we have seen, Neurotech is a huge field where technologies from various disciplines such as pharmacy and engineering are applied. There will be more and more startups applying this technology in the future, such as Neuromodulation, which NeurotechJP is especially interested in.

&nbsp;

In the next article, we will introduce the latter five technologies.

&nbsp;

Data reference:

[Neurotech Analytics](http://analytics.neurotech.com/q4/industry-landscape-overview.pdf)

[Neurotech Market Watch](https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/neurofeedback-market-size-2021-with-cagr-of-63-top-growth-companies-brainmaster-technologies-bee-medic-brainquiry-and-end-user-swot-analysis-in-industry-2026-2021-06-06)

[Neurotech Report](https://www.neurotechreports.com/)


In this article, we will introduce the first five of the ten categories of modern Neurotech technologies.

10 major types of Neurotech ~ First half ~


&nbsp;

[![Neuphony Youtube](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ria-rustagi-neuphony/neuphony-youtube.jpg)](https://youtu.be/cYKG7QrHhXI)
_Youtube: How Neuphony works_

&nbsp;

"Can't sleep well."

"Can't concentrate very well."

"Can't get over my anxiety."

&nbsp;

In today's information society, there are probably many people who have such problems related to their state of mind. There is a technology called [Neurofeedback](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neurofeedback) that uses brain waves to solve these problems.

&nbsp;

**Neurofeedback is a technology that utilizes devices to measure brain waves to visualize brain activity in real-time and allows users to control their own brain activity through training.**

![Neurofeedback](https://www.frontiersin.org/files/Articles/527026/fnhum-14-00192-HTML/image_m/fnhum-14-00192-g001.jpg)
_Neurofeedback Concept_

&nbsp;

PankhTech, a Germany-based startup, provides a non-invasive EEG device called "[Neuphony](https://www.neuphony.com/)," which uses neurofeedback technology to improve concentration, sleep quality, and so on.

For this interview, I had the opportunity to talk with [Ria Rustagi](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ria-rustagi/), founder of Neuphony, about the appeals and technologies of Neuphony, and its vision for the future.

&nbsp;

## Loss of her sister sparked her interest in brain

Neuphony was founded in 2019 in Germany by Ria who is a hardware engineer, and [Bhavya](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavya-madan-07/) who is Ria's fiance and a software engineer as well.

&nbsp;

The company's vision, "unlocking the unlimited potential of the human mind", was inspired by a rare brain infection that occurred to Ria's sister in 2016. After continuously fighting for 6 months she passed away which led Ria and the entire family in a state of trauma. Despite the trauma, Ria didn’t stop studying about the brain or the issue.
She told me that she decided to start a Neurotech startup because she wanted to create a device for people who are bedridden to help the family understand what they want to say, and also because she thought that **Neurotech was important for curing unstable mental states such as trauma.**

> "When my sister was hospitalized, I went through mental trauma. I have been always a very high passionate individual, so accepting my weakness was overwhelming and stressful.
> So that's why I felt that counseling therapies or any other sort of treatments are very time-consuming. That's what I think happens in the world, like people are less mindful, less sensitive. That's where exactly neurotech comes into the picture in mine."

&nbsp;

## Neuphony with accurate neurofeedback technology

![Neuphony app screen shot](https://neurotechjp.com/img/ria-rustagi-neuphony/neuphony-app.jpg)
_Neuphony Application_

Neuphony can be used in conjunction with compatible applications to

- Improve sleep quality
- Improve concentration
- Decrease stress

and many other benefits to improve mental health.

&nbsp;

It is very easy to use.

After getting the device and the app, you can measure your brain's state (mood) by measuring your brain waves under normal conditions. After that, you can start the meditation through the app. This will apply the most appropriate meditation according to the mood, such as "not enough focus". During meditation, auditory stimulation feedback using the volume of background music is provided according to the brain's activity state to guide you to a deeper meditation. At the end of the session, you can view your insight through a dedicated dashboard.

&nbsp;

Ria explained that the key to this neurofeedback mechanism is three factors: **what type of brain waves (ex. alpha waves) you have, what part of the brain you are measuring, and when you are measuring it.**

> "For example, the beta waves in the prefrontal lobe measured in the morning are good, but the beta waves when trying to sleep at night are not good. In my case, I have very beta frequency in the prefrontal lobe because I'm thinking 10 things at the same time. So if I shut this down in the night by neurofeedback, I can have a good sleep.
> So these three aspects, what wave you have, what part of the brain, and when you have it, are the essence of a good neurofeedback session."

\*Beta waves are commonly observed in focusing state.

\*Alpha waves are commonly observed in relaxed state.

&nbsp;

Ria said that the system of EEG analysis by these detailed conditions is built into the software, so they can provide accurate feedback in real-time.

&nbsp;

Also, Ria told me, the meditations for the neurofeedback can be divided into four categories such as relaxed meditation, focus meditation, and **by looking at the type of meditation as well as the EEG of the corresponding locations, since they can provide neurofeedback for several different purposes, such as "improving concentration" and "reducing stress.**

&nbsp;

## Strengths in hardware and software

![Neuphony GIF](https://www.neuphony.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/home.gif)
_Neuphony_

Ria said that Neuphony's strength is that it's designed so that **it can be used by researchers as well as general consumers**, as it has placed the minimum number of sensors in the right places to obtain various data.

> "We feel that there is a big gap between consumer devices and research devices. Research devices are superior, with lots of sensors, but they are expensive.
> On the other hand, consumer devices are cheap, but often do not have sensors in the right place. In order to fill this gap, we carefully chose the location of the sensors and created unique devices that covers the frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes."

By cleverly analyzing data from three different lobes - the frontal lobe, which controls concentration and emotions; the temporal lobe, which controls auditory perception and memory; and the parietal lobe, which controls somatosensory perception - Neuphony should be able to accurately respond to many use cases with neurofeedback.

&nbsp;

In addition, Ria explained to me that **another strength of Neuphony is that it has a traction mechanism which can fit different head sizes and has replaceable sensors.**
With other devices, if one sensor is broken, it is impossible to replace it, but with Neuphony, you can replace the sensor yourself.

&nbsp;

Also, processing the various data sets available from the device requires complex software technology.

Ria said that the company also has strength in **machine learning algorithms**.

> "We have a machine learning algorithm that analyzes high-quality signals. The algorithm recommends different meditation techniques to your mood. So even if you say sleep and I say sleep, we are recommended different things based on each brain."

&nbsp;

## Neurofeedback is the easiest method for mental health in daily life.

Is it really necessary to use neurofeedback for mental health?

Ria answered that **neurofeedback is the best technology to use in daily life because it is affordable and accessible**.

> "There are other possible options such as MRI, but it's expensive. Also, for anxiety attacks, you don't want to go to psychotherapy.
> But I feel like neurofeedback is the best solution of the many solutions available, especially not for your disorders but for your daily brain training. So, I think it's most affordable and accessible."

&nbsp;

## The Future - Making Neurotech more common

Neuphony is helping many people with neurofeedback, and we asked Ria about the future of Neuphony and Neurotech as she envisions it.

> "First of all, people should be aware and educated about this technology, because we don't know what we can do with this.
> And people should be using this like we use our smartwatch in daily life because we want to track our sleep and we want to track our steps. I want neurofeedback to be that technology at first.

> Secondly, I want to create a platform where people can come together and create something for neurofeedback. I feel that the people who are working in this domain are very less spread all across the world.
> I want everybody out there to be connected to help this growth, for the betterment of the people that are living because the brain is everything."

Ria answered.

&nbsp;

She also said that currently, Neuphony is developing a developer SDK to enable easier access to that community.

&nbsp;

As for the future shape of Neuphony's device, Ria told me that **they want to add more sensors** for such as the occipital lobe, which is associated with visual information, to **provide users with other types of information.**

Ria explained they have teamed up with a team of neuroscientists whom have been studying brain mechanisms for over 60 years to target the precise sensor location.

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

In this article, I interviewed Ria from Neuphony, a company that provides a variety of applications through neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback, with its ease of use and functionality, will soon be available to many people and may make Neurotech more popular.


For this interview, I had the opportunity to talk with Ria Rustagi, founder of Neuphony, a non-invasive EEG device which uses neurofeedback to improve concentration, sleep quality, and so on.

High accurate and versatile. Meditation headband "Neuphony" | Ria Rustagi


&nbsp;

In order to develop a neurotechnology startup, it is essential to have a rich understanding of these three elements: neuroscience for the understanding of how the brain works; software engineering centered around data anlysis and machine learning; and highly usable hardware engineering.

Many hot startups previously introduced in ["5 featured startups in Neurotechnology"](https://www.neurotechjp.com/blog/5-startups-of-interest/) were spin-off companies founded by scientists or professors, many of whom were inolved in research in the three stated fields.

&nbsp;

Neurotechnology is a technology that requires learning in many areas, but there is a young man who is actively working with students to lower the hurdles to learning, [Harrison Canning](http://harrisoncanning.com/).

That said, neurotechnology itself is an incredibly interdisciplinary study, requiring skills and understanding of multiple high-level scientific and mathematical concepts. To educate aspiring neurotech developers and reduce the educational barrier to entry in neurotech, a young scientist named [Harrison Canning](http://harrisoncanning.com/) is developing resources for students to learn the multitude of concepts in neurotech.

Canning is a student at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) majoring in neurotechnology, a founder and leader of a 90-member student research team in neurotechnology, and also a founder of a media company that provides original content on neurotechnology.

Canning is no doubt a pioneer in free and accesible neurotech education, and NeurotechJP had the opportunity to talk with him about **his background, vision, and future of neurotechnology.**

&nbsp;

## A childhood accident sparked his interest in neurotechnology.

Founded in 2018, [the Neurotechnology Exploration Team (NXT)](https://sites.google.com/view/bciresearchrit/home/introduction?authuser=0) is a research group consisting of over 90 researchers and students in total, primarily from RIT. The team is working on several projects using [electroencephalography (EEG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electroencephalography) and [electromyography (EMG)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electromyography), including a wheelchair that can be moved by the mind and a device that moves a cursor solely based on intent. Their achievements have even earned them a Maker of Merit award at [the 2019 Dubai International Maker Faire](https://dubai.makerfaire.com/).

[The BCI Guys](https://www.bciguys.com/), a neurotechnology media company, was founded when the pandemic forced them to go online. The BCI Guys has over 180 sources and has gained more than 1,000 viewers within a few days of its launch.

&nbsp;

Canning said that in both cases, **his motivation is to remove the barrier to entry and inspire others who are eager to join the field.**

Canning works with neurotechnology and business, and he told me that **his work was inspired by an unfortunate accident he suffered when was 13 years old.**

> "I got a bad concussion in an accident when I was 13, and lost the abilities to speak, read, and write well for a couple of years after that.
> Someday, I was thinking of a robotic exosuit that I had wanted to design. And I was thinking like, how can you control it? Because I wanted this for people with ALS, people that can't move their bodies normally. So if you can't move your bodies, then how can you control it? And so I was thinking about the brain a lot, probably because of the concussion stuff.
> And so I was wondering if maybe you can control the exosuit with your mind. And so I got really excited about that. And my mind just started to wander and think about where this could go in the future."

&nbsp;

Canning had studied robotics engineering from an early age. However, after an accident that left him unable to do the math and forced him to abandon his engineering career, he thought

> "**I can't be an engineer, but I want to be a business leader to really push this vision and try to develop the technology.**" 

and ever since, he has changed course to be business-minded.

Afterwards, when he was in high school, he studied business and computer science online and started his own e-commerce and digital marketing company. Later, in college, Canning dedicated his passion to neurotechnology and founded NXT and The BCI Guys.

&nbsp;

## Killer Use Cases

I asked Canning about how the technology will be used in our lives, dividing the killer use cases into two categories: current and future.

&nbsp;

Canning replied that **the current killer use case is in Neuromodulation.**

&nbsp;

![Neuromodulation](https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Erika-Ross/publication/319423397/figure/fig1/AS:546704563937280@1507355933540/Neuromodulation-devices-for-the-treatment-of-neurologic-disorders-Schematic-summarizing.png)
_Neuromodulation_

[Neuromodulation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuromodulation) is a technology that directly stimulates a specific nervous system to alter its neural activity. This can improve Parkinson's disease or help people with hearing or vision impairments.

Canning explained that this case can be used not only in invasive devices that are implanted in the brain, but also in non-invasive devices that do not need to be implanted.

&nbsp;

Also, Canning replied that **the killer use case of the future is manipulating a computer as intuitively as possible.**

> "For example, when you first start using Adobe Photoshop, you click on one button and you get 10 buttons, and it takes you a while to make a choice. However, if a brain-computer interface could know enough about what you want to do, it can cut back the unnecessary 90% of options and you see just 10% of options.
> I think it would be a killer app. And that type of application is possible in non-invasive BCIs. "

&nbsp;

## Timing and solving technical issues are critical to the establishment of neurotechnology.

While the technology seems like something straight out of science fiction, Canning said that **in order for the technology to reach healthy people, it is necessary to determine where it's good enough for them to start using it.**

He explained that

> "I think people are over willing to accept the technology sometimes without thinking about concerns around the technology. When [Neuralink](http://neuralink.com/) previously announced the clinical trial, many people wanted to sign up for it although there isn't even an illness underneath. For instance, I want to listen to music with my mind. So, we need to be careful with this stuff."

&nbsp;

![Neuralink Device](https://img-cdn.tnwcdn.com/image?fit=1280%2C720&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn0.tnwcdn.com%2Fwp-content%2Fblogs.dir%2F1%2Ffiles%2F2019%2F11%2Fneuralink.jpg&signature=166a1426cb99b54b052eeee203306399)

_Neuralink Device_

&nbsp;

For this technology to truly infiltrate our lives and stay ubiquitous, we must carefully navigate how consumers adopt these devices and confirm that the value proposition is large enough for the lifestyle changes that such a technology could have.

When we asked about his opinion on the biggest challenge that neurotech currently faces, Canning answered that **the challenge is how to acquire and process data with the least amount of noise.**

> "Especially with EEG, which is recording on the scalp, we need to try to cancel out the noise. We also need to keep training the algorithms to read what the brain is doing from the EEG."

&nbsp;

## Future as a business leader

When I asked Canning about his future plans, he said,

> "**I want to be a business leader** who can at least talk to people of different disciplines...
> I believe that **the brain is the last frontier of user experience,** so I'm interested in doing the business stuff around user experience, customer relations."

&nbsp;

Also, as for the future of BCI Guys, which provides a lot of online technical material, he told me as the following.

> "At first, we're going to be offering online classes of some **technical walkthrough**, such as demos using the [Arduino](https://www.arduino.cc/). We will teach you how to code a little bit.
> Secondly, what we're looking at is **sponsored content** such as project videos using a different device from a different company each time."

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

This time, we had the pleasure of interviewing Harrison Canning.

The contents of The BCI Guys are extremely helpful in entering this field, and NeurotechJP highly recommend watching their contents to everybody interested in starting in this field.


We interviewed Harrison Canning, a student at RIT majoring in neurotechnology, a founder and leader of a 90-member student research team in neurotechnology, and a founder of a media company that provides original contents on neurotechnology.

Student entrepreneur in neurotechnology | Harrison Canning


&nbsp;

Almost 100 years after the discovery of the technology to read brain waves, the Neurotechnology industry is heating up again. This is due to the development of brain science and the emergence of startups with superior machine learning and hardware technologies.

In this article, I will carefully select five of the most promising startups that will revolutionize our lives with Neurotechnology.

&nbsp;

Before I get into the main topic, I'll explain what kind of BCI (Brain-Computer Interface) they are working on.

## Categories of BCI

BCI is the interface between the human brain and the computer, and can be categorized as follows.

![BCI Category](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-of-interest/category-bci.jpg)

1. **Invasive BCI**

   Implanting electrodes directly into the cerebral cortex to measure the activity of single neurons

2. **Semi-Invasive BCI**

   Implanting electrodes only on the surface of the head (ECoG) to measure the electrical activity generated by the cerebral cortex

3. **Non-Invasive BCI**

   Placing sensors on the scalp to measure the electrical potential (EEG) and magnetic field (MEG) generated by the brain.

&nbsp;

|                         | Non-Invasive |  Semi-Invasive   | Invasive |
| :---------------------: | :----------: | :--------------: | :------: |
|       **Surgery**       |      No      | Yes (only scalp) |   Yes    |
| **Accuracy of signals** |     Low      |      Normal      |   High   |
| **Spatial resolution**  |     Low      |       High       |   High   |
|        **Noise**        |     Big      |      Small       |  Small   |

\*Spatial resolution is a measure of the smallest object that can be resolved by the sensor

&nbsp;

## 5 featured startups

### 1. [Neuralink](https://neuralink.com)

![Neuralink](https://img-cdn.tnwcdn.com/image?fit=1280%2C720&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn0.tnwcdn.com%2Fwp-content%2Fblogs.dir%2F1%2Ffiles%2F2020%2F09%2Fimage-1-6.png&signature=347c8a4d966a29231cec431cae704d60)

Neuralink, led by Elon Musk, was founded in 2017, along with experts in the fields of neuroscience, biochemistry, robotics, and so on.

After operating in stealth mode for several years, Neuralink made its presence felt with its hair-thin invasive BCI "**threads**", announced in July 2019.

While threads was capable of acquiring large amounts of brain data, it has now evolved into "Link," a device the size of a coin that can acquire eight times more data and has a battery that can last a day.

What's noteworthy is **the communication experience that is possible through Link.**

With Link, you can control the cursor on your mobile device or enter text just by "thinking".

![Neuralink gif](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-of-interest/neuralink.gif)

_Demo GIF: iOS app that lets you move the cursor by thinking_

Neuralink says that **they will provide the first neural implant that will allow you to control computers and mobile devices anywhere you go.**

Also, Neuralink says that they will provide the user experience **not only to the medical field but also to healthy people**, so it may be a product that will bring about a major change in our lives in the future.

> Neuralink is currently focused on making medical devices. ~
> Neuralink's long-term vision is to create BMIs that are sufficiently safe and powerful that healthy individuals would want to have them.

&nbsp;

Articles:

- [Elon Musk unveils Neuralink’s plans for brain-reading ‘threads’ and a robot to insert them(2019/7/16)](https://www.theverge.com/2019/7/16/20697123/elon-musk-neuralink-brain-reading-thread-robot)

- [Watch a monkey equipped with Elon Musk's Neuralink device play Pong with its brain(2021/4/8)](https://techcrunch.com/2021/04/08/watch-a-monkey-equipped-with-elon-musks-neuralink-device-play-pong-with-its-brain/)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

### 2. [NextMind](https://next-mind.com)

![NextMind](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/RR7tHXV14xk/maxresdefault.jpg)

NextMind is a startup founded in 2017 based in Paris, France by Sid Kouider, a professor of cognitive neuroscience with multiple patents.

NextMind offers a non-invasive BCI and developer's kit that can control games and TV cursors, and they are so innovative that they could take the Best of Innovation award at CES 2020.

What's noteworthy is **the simplicity of the device and their amazing data science technology**.

By reading brain waves in the visual cortex, which are associated with visual information, NextMind's device can do things like **move a cursor on a TV or computer screen or defeat an enemy in a VR game just by thinking about it.**

[![NextMind](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-of-interest/next-mind.jpg)](https://youtu.be/yfzDcfQpdp0?list=TLGGw0P7hwgH87kyNDA1MjAyMQ)

_Demo video: VR game that lets you defeat enemies by thinking_

To achieve this, highly accurate machine learning/AI technology is required, and it is no exaggeration to say that they are leading the way in the non-invasive BCI industry.

Also, the device, which can be purchased for only $399, can be worn with VR devices, and does not feel uncomfortable when worn in daily life. With the included developer's kit (Unity support), the device **can be easily integrated with your own VR applications**, and then anyone can add brain command operations such as "do something when you think", which is another factor that could make NextMind a leader in the industry.

&nbsp;

Articles:

- [NextMind’s Dev Kit for mind-controlled computing offers a rare ‘wow’ factor in tech(2020/12/22)](https://techcrunch.com/2020/12/21/nextminds-dev-kit-for-mind-controlled-computing-offers-a-rare-wow-factor-in-tech/)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

### 3. [Neurable](https://neurable.com)

![Neurable](https://c1.iggcdn.com/indiegogo-media-prod-cld/image/upload/c_fill%2Cf_auto%2Ch_630%2Cw_1200/v1619206517/xw1z6rep5kpzcfexu3rf.jpg)

Neurable is a Boston-based startup that spun off from a lab at the University of Michigan in 2015.

Neurable's non-invasive BCI looks like just a pair of headphones, but it has a 16-channel sensor in contact with the ear.

What's noteworthy is the **practicality and usage of the device**.

The sensors in the ear detect the user's level of concentration and automatically turn on/off noise cancellation and notifications accordingly. Not only that, but it can also perform actions such as skipping music and answering phone calls without the user having to speak.

![Neurable](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-of-interest/neurable.jpg)

With the concept of **a device that can be easily used every day**, Neurable aims to create a world that enables **seamless communication that is both hands-free and voice-free.**

&nbsp;

Articles:

- [Neurable Raises $6 Million Series A To Build An ‘Everyday’ Brain-Computer Interface(2019/12/17)](https://www.forbes.com/sites/solrogers/2019/12/17/exclusive-neurable-raises-series-a-to-build-an-everyday-brain-computer-interface/?sh=6eed84062feb)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

### 4. [CTRL-labs](https://tech.fb.com/ar-vr/)

![CTRL-labs](https://image.itmedia.co.jp/news/articles/1909/24/l_yu_ctrl1.jpg)

CTRL-labs is a startup founded in 2015 in New York and bought by Facebook (Facebook Reality Labs) in 2019.

CTRL-labs provides a wristband neural device that reads the electrical activity of muscles (EMG).

The device, which is worn on the wrist, can detect changes in the weak electric field of the muscles that occur when you try to move your hand or fingers, and if you move your hand, the device can accurately reproduce the movement on a screen or other device.

What's noteworthy is **the integration of this technology with XR**.

By wearing this device and performing actions such as "moving your arm in the air," "swiping in the air," or "typing in the air" in response to the content displayed in AR or VR, the device will receive the commands from the EMG and reflect the movements in AR/VR.

[![Facebook reality labs](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-of-interest/facebook-reality-labs.jpg)](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1146186389155473)

_Demo Video: Air typing_

CTRL-labs will eliminate the need for input devices such as remote controls and cell phones to operate the XR, and may soon realize **a future where everything can be controlled by hand movements in the air.**

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

### 5. [SPARK Neuro](https://www.sparkneuro.com/)

![SparkNeuro](https://media.sparkneuro.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SPARKNEURO-RGB-Color-black-text.png)

SPARK Neuro is a startup founded in 2016 in New York.

Unlike the four startups above, they do not provide BCI, but use their superior data science technology and knowledge of neuroscience to provide services using brainwaves in marketing, entertainment, and medical fields.

What's noteworthy is that the company is **active in the field of marketing using brain waves, commonly known as neuromarketing**.

Neuromarketing is the process of having test subjects watch an advertising video that a client is considering, and analyzing their reaction to the ad using brain waves data for quantitative data in addition to qualitative feedback.

[![How Neuromarketing works](https://neurotechjp.com/img/5-startups-of-interest/spark-neuro.jpg)](https://youtu.be/g7kCxJy1gSA)

_Demo Video: Neuromarketing_

This makes it possible to create ads with high conversion rates and to reduce the mismatch of ads to users.

SPARK Neuro has **their own AI model built with a large amount of training data**, and provides its marketing methods to many companies such as GM and Netflix.

&nbsp;

Articles:

- [SPARK Neuro Catapults Neuroanalytics Industry into New Frontier with Investments in Advanced Technology(2019/5/16)](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/spark-neuro-catapults-neuroanalytics-industry-into-new-frontier-with-investments-in-advanced-technology-300851539.html)


In this article, I will introduce five carefully selected startups with a momentum that will revolutionize our lives with Neurotechnology.

5 featured startups in Neurotechnology


&nbsp;

There are about 86 billion [neurons](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuron) in the brain, and the activity of these neurons controls our lives.

The interface that connects the activity of neurons in the brain to a computer is called [BCI (Brain Computer Interface)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brain%E2%80%93computer_interface). BCI is a science fiction technology that can be used to study the inside of the brain and to enhance brain functions.

The team that set the world record for the BCI in 2018 is the research team of [Masaki Nakanishi](https://sccn.ucsd.edu/~masaki/), who works at the research facility called [SCCN](https://sccn.ucsd.edu/) at UC San Diego.

For this interview, I had the opportunity to talk with Masaki Nakanishi, who is working as an Assitant Project Scientist at a world-class research facility, about his career and the potential of the world record-breaking "SSVEP" technology.

&nbsp;

## Went to UCSD for seeking higher technology and environment

![SCCN](https://sccn.ucsd.edu/images/sccn.jpg)

&nbsp;

Dr. Nakanishi completed his M.S. at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (TUAT) in 2010, followed by Ph.D. at Keio University in Japan. He then moved to the U.S. as a postdoctoral researcher at UC San Diego, where he is currently working as an Assistant Project Scientist.

Dr. Nakanishi has been passionate about the field of neurotechnology for a long time, and when I asked him how he became interested in this field, he replied
"When I was an undergraduate student, **I got the idea of this field in a class project titled 'What is the ultimate interface?'**. A few years later, in graduate school, I became involved in the research of BCI in earnest."

Dr. Nakanishi mentioned that his decision to leave his Japan and enter a top-level research environment in the U.S. derived from his four-month internship at UCSD during his graduate school days.

After receiving a Ph.D. in Japan, he decided to work as a postdoctoral researcher at UCSD to pursue higher technology.
At the research facility SCCN, **he contributed to many achievements such as marking a world record in BCI using the SSVEP technology.**.

&nbsp;

## Background to the World Record

The index of BCI's goodness is a value called **Information Transfer Rate(i.e.ITR)**, which consists of the following three elements:

1. Time for transferring information [ **Speed matters**]
2. Number of commands [ **More is bettter** ]
3. Accuracy with which the signal is identified [ **Presision is key** ]

By increasing these three elements, we can aim for a high score in ITR.

Dr. Nakanishi said that his team used a technology called SSVEP, and by solving the issues that arose there, they were able to **dramatically increase the number of commands** to improve ITR.
(In addition to SSVEP, there are other methods such as P300.)

&nbsp;

[SSVEP (Steady-State Visual Evoked Potentials)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steady_state_visually_evoked_potential) is an EEG component evoked by visual stimuli flashing on the screen. We can identify the stimuli by comparing the frequency of the flashing stimuli on the screen with the frequency of the responding EEG. For example, if there are letters A to Z flashing at different frequencies on the screen, we can identify the letter the subject is looking at by analyzing the frequency that appears in the EEG.

![SSVEP](https://sccn.ucsd.edu/~masaki/img/bci.gif)
_Typing letters using only brain waves with SSVEP_

&nbsp;

## SSVEP to be applied in medical and AR/VR industries

So, how can this technology be used in our daily lives?

I asked him about its possibilities.

&nbsp;

Dr. Nakanishi said, "First of all, one area where it is already being applied is **in the medical field**.
**People with suspected visual field defects can use this SSVEP technology to perform EEG tests to detect which parts of the (brain) function responsible for eyesight is the problem.**"

![Medical purpose with SSVEP](https://diopsys.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/VEP-Patient-Taking-Test.jpg)
_Vision testing with SSVEP @Shree Ramkrishna Netralaya_

In fact, many large hospital facilities are already conducting EEG tests using this SSVEP technology.

&nbsp;

Also, Dr. Nakanishi said, "**AR/VR** is the field that will accelerate in the future.
**By displaying stimuli, which are used to be displayed on a screen on a computer, on the screen of AR glasses or VR, it will be possible to expand the input options for AR/VR.**

For example, if multiple buttons are displayed on Google Glass, you can select any button by going through the steps of 'seeing → measuring brain waves'. By linking smart home appliances with Google Glass, it will be possible to turn on/off the air conditioner automatically just by looking at it."

![AR with SSVEP](https://neurotechjp.com/img/mr-nakanishi-ucsd/hololens-bci.jpg)
_Image: Control Hololens with SSVEP-based BCI_

&nbsp;

Because SSVEP can accurately detect what is gazing, unlike eye-tracking and other technologies that have been used in AR glasses/VR, **it can respond to small targets and can distinguish between gazing at the actual outside world and gazing at the digital world on the glasses.**

In addition, Dr. Nakanishi mentioned that, although brain wave measurement devices cause unnaturalness when worn on a daily basis, **embedding electrodes that can measure brain waves in AR/VR head-mounted devices will make them more compatible in terms of convenience and practicality.**

&nbsp;

## Future trends in Neurotechnology

Dr. Nakanishi told me, in order to incorporate neurotechnology more into our daily lives, there is still **a lot of progress that needs to be made in terms of both hardware and software**, such as improving the way of stimulation in SSVEP, in addition to developing more accurate and slimmer sensors and devices.

Dr. Nakanishi also predicts that the new BCI technology, which is even more accurate in estimating which part of the brain waves originate from, may be the key in the future.

&nbsp;

## Conclusion

This time, I had the pleasure of interviewing Masaki Nakanishi, who is conducting research on a technology called VEP at UCSD.

The day may soon come when the sensory experience of vision is combined with brain waves to revolutionize our digital world of smartphones, VR, and IoT.

&nbsp;

Citations:

- [Generating Visual Flickers for Eliciting Robust Steady-State Visual Evoked Potentials at Flexible Frequencies Using Monitor Refresh Rate](https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0099235)

- [University of Sydney receives AI for Accessibility Grant from Microsoft](https://news.microsoft.com/en-au/features/university-of-sydney-receives-ai-for-accessibility-grant-from-microsoft/)

- [Diopsys ERG and VEP Vision Testing Systems](https://www.shreeramkrishnanetralaya.com/diopsys-erg-or-vep.html)


For this interview, I had the opportunity to talk with Masaki Nakanishi, an Assistant Project Scientist at SCCN, a research facility at UC San Diego that conducts world-class research. We discussed about his career and the potential of the world record-breaking "SSVEP" technology.