NeuCyber Neurotech, a Beijing-backed brain–computer interface (BCI) company, has made a rare and direct comparison with its biggest global rival. The firm says its most advanced implant still trails Neuralink by about three years.
The comment came from NeuCyber’s rotating CEO, Li Yuan, during a recent media briefing. He set a clear benchmark: Neuralink’s progress in fully invasive brain implants. The statement stands out in a sector where companies often avoid direct comparisons.
NeuCyber is closely linked to the Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR). The institute was set up in 2018 with support from the Beijing government and top universities. From the start, it focused on building core technologies in neuroscience and brain–machine interfaces.
The company’s goal is simple and practical. It wants to help people with paralysis regain control over devices using their thoughts. This includes moving a cursor, typing, or even controlling robotic limbs.
Its first system, Beinao-1, takes a semi-invasive approach. Instead of penetrating deep into brain tissue, it sits on the brain’s surface. So far, seven patients have received the implant. Early results show users can control a computer cursor and improve basic hand movement.
NeuCyber plans to expand these trials to around 50 patients. This step will help validate safety and long-term performance before moving forward.
NeuCyber Trails of Bejing Neuralink by Three Years as Beinao-2 Enters Animal Testing
The company’s next-generation device, Beinao-2, marks a shift. It uses flexible electrodes that go inside the brain. This makes it a fully invasive system, similar in concept to Neuralink’s design.
Right now, Beinao-2 remains in large-scale animal testing. The company still needs to complete safety studies and early feasibility work. Human trials may begin in about two years if progress stays on track.
Li Yuan made it clear that this is where the gap lies. Neuralink already operates at this stage, while NeuCyber is still preparing for it.
The three-year lag comes down to a few key factors.
First, Neuralink has already tested its device in more than 20 human patients. This gives it a strong lead in real-world data. It also helps refine both hardware and software faster.
Second, Neuralink uses a specialized surgical robot. This robot inserts ultra-thin threads into the brain with high precision. It reduces damage to blood vessels and improves placement accuracy. NeuCyber has not yet matched this level of automation.
Third, Neuralink’s neural decoding speed is higher. Reports suggest it can reach over 8–10 bits per second. This means faster and smoother control of devices. In simple terms, users can interact more naturally.
NeuCyber, by contrast, follows a more cautious path. Chinese researchers often explore a mix of invasive, semi-invasive, and non-invasive systems. This approach places strong weight on safety and gradual scaling.
Neuralink’s current position
Founded by Elon Musk, Neuralink has pushed the boundaries of invasive BCI systems. It has received Breakthrough Device designation from the FDA, which helps speed up clinical progress.
One of its well-known patients, Noland Arbaugh, has shown how far the technology has come. Despite paralysis, he can play games and control a computer using only his thoughts. These demonstrations highlight the strength of high-quality neural signals and real-time decoding.
Neuralink’s approach focuses on precision, bandwidth, and direct brain interaction. This gives it an edge in performance, though it also raises higher technical and ethical challenges.
NeuCyber’s progress fits into a larger national effort. China has made brain–computer interfaces a strategic priority in its latest five-year plan. The goal is to build two or three global leaders in the field by 2030.
The country has already taken steps to support this vision. It offers funding, policy support, and faster approval pathways for clinical trials. This has led to a high number of BCI experiments across different approaches.
China also recently approved its first commercial invasive BCI system. This device helps patients with spinal cord injuries control robotic gloves. While it may not match Neuralink’s technical depth, it shows strong momentum in real-world use.
A race shaped by different philosophies
The gap between NeuCyber and Neuralink is not just about time. It reflects two different strategies.
Neuralink pushes for high performance through fully invasive systems and advanced robotics. It aims for maximum signal quality and fast user control.
Chinese firms like NeuCyber take a broader route. They test multiple methods and move step by step. This reduces risk but can slow progress in cutting-edge areas.
The result is a competitive but uneven race. The United States leads in deep invasive technology, while China moves fast in scaling trials and applications.
Both sides see BCI as more than a medical tool. It has long-term potential in human–machine interaction, defense, and computing.
For now, NeuCyber’s admission adds clarity. It shows where the global benchmark stands, and how far others still need to go.
