Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) come in many forms and can be non-invasive, integrated into wearable devices, or invasive, meaning they are implanted into the body to work nearer to the brain. IDTechEx's report, "Brain Computer Interfaces 2025-2045: Technologies, Players, Forecasts", focuses on using BCIs to read and interpret brain signals in applications such as device control, mind writing, and restoring mobility.
BCI headphones and helmets
Wearing headphones could soon mean much more than just a means to listen to music, as they could be redesigned to interpret brain data to provide information for more optimized productivity. Neurable's mission is to create a BCI that is as useful as a smartphone in daily life, and even more personalized to enhance users' well-being. The ease of using headphones to improve wellness showcases the versatile benefits of BCI devices.
Magnetoencephalography (MEG) helmets could measure magnetic fields around the brain created by the electrical activity of neurons. Such technology has previously been used in large scanning devices, but the emergence of helmets could allow neuroimaging and data about the brain's activity to be collected more conveniently and functionally while people go about their daily activities. However, further developments would be necessary to adapt this into a consumer BCI device, as the brain's magnetic fields may be difficult to detect outside of a shielded environment, which may be a barrier to MEG adoption.
Invasive BCI approaches
An interface that operates on the surface of the brain with minimal invasiveness has been created by Precision to visualize human thoughts. Their thin film technology can cover many areas of the brain, using electrodes to stimulate and simultaneously record to access and translate thought patterns into readable information.
Similarly, Synchron uses a small device implanted into a vein to send neurological messages to a separate unit fitted in the chest. The technology can use patients' thoughts to create clicks and movements on a computer to enable communication without the need for speech or hand movements.
Neuralink have developed a small implant designed to be inserted into the brain, which could be used to utilize brain activity in people with movement impairments or paralysis. The Neuralink chip uses tiny electrodes within the brain to allow thought-based device control, with the company hoping to create never before seen possibilities for people living with quadriplegia.
Non- invasive vs Invasive. Source: IDTechEx
Challenges and forecasts
Allowing devices to be user-friendly and accessible while maintaining a high functionality and ability to achieve the best quality data is one of the main challenges outlined in IDTechEx's report "Brain Computer Interfaces 2025-2045: Technologies, Players, Forecasts". Patient welfare will also remain a top priority with experimental technologies, meaning regulation of such invasive processes will likely be strict. Commercialization and wide adoption of these technologies is therefore predicted to take a while, with clinical trials still largely in progress. The expense of BCI technologies could also be a barrier to adoption, as they are likely to be high-cost, requiring post-procedure appointments and care, with no guarantee of sourcing secure funding. However, IDTechEx predicts the brain computer interface market to exceed US$ 1.6billion in 2045, highlighting the large scope for growth and development within the sector, and the potential of BCI technology to improve accessible communication.
For more information, visit IDTechEx's latest report, www.IDTechEx.com/BCI. Downloadable sample pages are available for this report.
For the full portfolio of wearable technology market research available from IDTechEx, please see www.IDTechEx.com/Research/WT.
About IDTechEx
IDTechEx provides trusted independent research on emerging technologies and their markets. Since 1999, we have been helping our clients to understand new technologies, their supply chains, market requirements, opportunities and forecasts. For more information, contact research@IDTechEx.com or visit www.IDTechEx.com.
