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　　The human brain remains one of the greatest mysteries in scientific research. A brain–computer interface (BCI) serves as the brain’s “communication channel” to the outside world, enabling interaction and exchange with the outside world purely through thought.

　　Scenes once found only in science fiction are now coming within reach. The Implementation Guidelines on Advancing Innovation and Development in the Brain–Computer Interface Industry (hereinafter referred to as Guidelines), jointly released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and six other ministries, outline clear targets: achieve breakthroughs in core BCI technologies by 2027 and elevate overall capabilities to a world-leading level by 2030…

　　The “roadmap” not only provides a clear vision for the future of the industry but also affirms China’s determination to keep pushing the boundaries of this technology, bringing new hope and health benefits to more patients and families.

　　By attaching electrodes as thin as cicada wings onto the patient’s dura mater, the inner thoughts of those unable to speak can be “heard.” At Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University, the BCI system “Beinao-1” is helping patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) regain their ability to communicate.

　　Paralyzed patients write with brain-controlled robotic arms, while the visually impaired gain the ability to “perceive” light and shadows through chip interfaces… A number of global tech giants are placing big bets on BCIs. Looking ahead, continuous technological progress promises new therapeutic options for diseases like stroke and Parkinson’s disease.

　　With a history of more than a century, BCI technologies have advanced rapidly in recent years. However, key components such as interface electrodes continue to pose major challenges, and practical application still faces significant hurdles. Overcoming these barriers will require policy support to enable further breakthroughs.

　　Ignite innovation! Focusing on key issues, this new document adopts multiple targeted measures to precisely address critical challenges.

　　Targeted Research and Development—

　　Speed up breakthroughs in implantable device research and development; innovate product forms such as forehead patches, ear patches, in-ear devices, and hairpin-style wearables; develop integrated BCI products including helmets, headsets, glasses, and earphones; develop ultra-low-power, high-speed, and highly reliable communication chips; and improve brain signal encoding and decoding software…

　　The Guidelines provides a comprehensive review of the entire industry chain, focusing on the key areas requiring urgent breakthroughs both now and moving forward, and methodically set out targeted scientific and technological research initiatives for each.

　　Additionally, the Guidelines outlines key projects focused on reinforcing core software and hardware foundations, as well as developing high-quality complete systems. These include the development of EEG-based emotion detection systems, brain-controlled robots, computers, and home appliances, along with exoskeleton products that utilize EEG signal feedback.

　　Accelerated Implementation—

　　The Guidelines explicitly supports the growth of testing and evaluation institutions, the establishment of product testing standards, and the development of specialized instruments for brain signal detection and analysis. They also emphasize the strategic planning and construction of pilot production platforms, the organization of open bidding for selecting the best candidates for key tasks, and the acceleration of new product development and industrial application.

　　Notably, the Guidelines also focuses on expanding applications in three scenarios: industrial manufacturing, healthcare, and living consumption. They aim to advance pilot programs in key industries such as hazardous materials, nuclear energy, mining, and power. By leveraging BCI products, real-time monitoring and analysis of brain activity can help detect and prevent potential health problems. Additionally, BCI technologies will be used to track drivers’ physiological conditions and deliver timely warnings for fatigue, distraction, slow reactions, and other abnormal states.

　　Strengthening Support—

　　The Guidelines emphasizes a structured, classified construction of incubators and industrial parks, the growth and support of leading companies within the BCI sector, the launch of a startup cultivation program, and the promotion of partnerships between BCI companies and businesses in artificial intelligence, new materials, robotics, and other fields.

　　In addition, the Guidelines calls for establishing a technical standards system for BCIs and setting out a clear roadmap for standardized development. It emphasizes ongoing support for ethical research and the creation of a robust governance framework involving coordinated efforts across government departments and active societal participation. Furthermore, the Guidelines highlights the importance of strengthening specialized talent development and promoting the establishment of dedicated institutions such as future technology institutes and modern industry colleges.

　　Relevant authorities and regions have introduced corresponding measures to help new technologies smoothly enter the “fast track.”

　　The National Healthcare Security Administration issued the Guidelines for the Establishment of Pricing Projects for Neurological Medical Services (Trial), introducing price items such as fees for invasive BCI implantation and removal. Cities such as Beijing and Shanghai have released action plans outlining clear development paths for regulatory policies, clinical trials, and industry clusters in the BCI field. Meanwhile, the Artificial Intelligence Ethics Subcommittee of the National Science and Technology Ethics Commission has developed ethical guidelines for BCI research…

　　In this sci-tech revolution and industrial transformation affecting human health and well-being, we are accelerating our progress with great optimism for the future!