China has set an ambitious strategy to lead the world in the brain-computer interface (BCI) technology by the end of this decade, directly challenging the choice of Elon Musk’s neurlinks and many American startups. A detailed government policy letter released in July reflects China’s target to achieve major successes in BCI research by 2027 and develop a global competitive industry by 2030, Wired.

BCI technology works by capturing brain signals and translating them to command that can be used to control machines, computers or prosthetic devices. It is often seen as a revolutionary tool that can change the lives of serious physical disabled people, which can enable them to move the robotic arms, type on screen, or to do tasks such as navigating smartphones with their ideas.

While the concept of brain-computer interface has been around for decades, practical applications have only begun to achieve traction in recent years. In the United States, companies such as neurlinks, synchron and paradromics are running to manufacture safe and effective products. China later entered the field, but thanks to strong government support, it quickly shut down the difference.

The latest policy prepared by seven agencies, including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, meets 17 specific stages to accelerate progress. These include designing advanced chips, creating better software to decod the brain signals, making standard for BCI devices and ensuring large -scale construction capacity.

The Chinese firm and research institutes are already showing initial results. Shanghai-based neuroxus has transplanted tools in six patients with paralysis. In some cases, the system successfully decoded the sugar directly spoken from the brain activity, while in others, it enabled the control of digital devices through the idea. The Chinese Institute for Brain Research has also tested a coin -shaped implant called Binao -1 in five patients in Beijing, showing the test that they were able to open a cursor and smartphone app using the device. Researchers say that at least one to two million people in the country may benefit from the BCI in future.

The government’s roadmap is also seen beyond medical use. It suggests consumer-centric equipment such as headbands, earbuds and smart glasses that can monitor brain activity. For example, wearables may warning drivers against drowsiness or slow reactions, potentially reduce traffic accidents. Industries such as mining, energy and dangerous material handling have also been identified as areas where BCI can improve safety by providing initial alert in case of health risks.

Although the competition between the US and China is sharp in advanced technology, entrepreneurs in this field emphasize that real beneficiaries should be patient. Finix Peng, CEO of Neuroxus, said that cooperation between countries can help accelerate the development of products that improve the quality of life. “We just want to make something useful for patients,” he said.