Brain-Computer Interfaces for Everyone: Science Corp CEO Predicts Mass Adoption by 2035

Science Corp. CEO Max Hodak predicts a future where brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are commonplace. He shared this vision at a recent tech event. His company is already developing commercial products to restore sight. This marks a pivotal shift from experimental tech to real-world medical solutions.

According to Hodak, the engineering challenges are being solved. He believes these devices will be widely available within the next decade. This timeline suggests a major leap in how we treat neurological conditions. It signals a move from niche medical use to broader human enhancement.

The Path from Vision Restoration to Merged Consciousness

Science Corp’s first product is a retinal implant called Prima. It is designed for patients with advanced macular degeneration. Clinical trials showed 80% of participants could read again. The company aims for a European launch next summer.

The next phase involves optogenetic gene therapy. This approach makes neurons light-sensitive. Hodak claims their proprietary proteins are state-of-the-art. The goal is to restore vision without bulky external hardware. This work lays the foundation for more radical applications.

Beyond Treatment: Engineering a New Neural Future

The ultimate goal is far more ambitious. Hodak describes a “biohybrid” neural interface. It involves growing new, engineered neurons from stem cells. These neurons would integrate with a person’s existing brain tissue.

This approach could bypass the physical limits of electrode-based systems like Neuralink’s. It aims for seamless biological integration. Hodak frames this as a longevity story. The end goal, he suggests, is understanding and recreating consciousness itself.

This progression from medical device to consciousness platform could redefine humanity. The timeline for brain-computer interfaces is accelerating faster than many anticipated. We are witnessing the dawn of a new cognitive era.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What is Science Corp’s Prima system?

Prima is a retinal implant for advanced macular degeneration. It combines a tiny chip with smart glasses. Clinical trials reported most patients regained the ability to read.

Q2: How soon could BCIs become widely used?

Science Corp’s CEO predicts they will be available for patients in need by 2035. He expects them to become “ubiquitous” by the late 2040s. This is based on current regulatory and development pathways.

Q3: What is a biohybrid neural interface?

It is a device that grows lab-made neurons to connect with the brain. Unlike electrodes, it aims for a biological connection. Science Corp has tested a proof-of-concept in mice.

Q4: Are brain-computer interfaces safe?

Current procedures are serious brain surgeries with inherent risks. Companies are engineering safety features, like biological “off switches.” Long-term safety data is still being collected.

Q5: Who is funding this technology?

Science Corp has raised $260 million from private investors. Major tech firms like Apple and Microsoft are also investing in BCI research. China has a national plan to lead the industry by 2030.