Synchron develops a brain-computer interface (BCI) designed to allow individuals to control digital devices using thought alone. This neurotechnology is implanted via a minimally-invasive endovascular procedure, avoiding open brain surgery. The platform aims to restore autonomy and enhance social connection for users with physical limitations.
Funding
$139.9M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
+1Founders
Product
Problem
Individuals with severe paralysis or other nervous system conditions often lose the ability to control digital devices, hindering their communication, access to information, and overall autonomy. Existing solutions often require invasive open brain surgery, posing significant risks and limiting accessibility.
Solution
Synchron develops a minimally invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) designed to restore digital device control for individuals with limited hand mobility. The BCI utilizes an endovascular procedure, similar to stent placement, to deliver an electrode array (Stentrode) into a blood vessel in the brain, avoiding the need for open brain surgery. The Stentrode senses motor signals, which are then transmitted to an external device (IRT) and processed by a signal processing unit (SPU). The SPU translates these signals into commands that allow users to control smartphones, tablets, computers, and other digital interfaces using only their thoughts. This technology aims to empower autonomy and social connection for patients with previously untreatable nervous system conditions.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes individuals with tetraplegia, paralysis, and other severe nervous system conditions who have limited hand mobility and seek to regain control over digital devices for communication and daily tasks.
Features
- Minimally-invasive endovascular procedure for BCI implantation, reducing risks associated with open brain surgery
- Stentrode electrode array designed to sense motor signals within a blood vessel
- IRT (Implantable Radiotelemetry Unit) for wireless signal transmission
- SPU (Signal Processing Unit) to process and translate brain signals into digital commands
- Compatibility with smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart home devices
- Integration with AI models to enhance BCI functionality
- Patient registry to gather data and advance BCI technology