How we can achieve the responsible development of brain-computer interfaces

For centuries, humanity has sought to understand the most complex system we know: the human brain.

Despite extraordinary progress across neuroscience, medicine and technology, the mechanisms underlying our thoughts, emotions and memories remain only partially understood.

However, advances at the intersection of neuroscience, materials science, semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI) are beginning to unlock the transformative potential of brain-computer interfaces. These neuroelectronic devices represent one of the most promising frontiers in modern medicine but progress must advance with core ethics and collaboration.

According to the World Health Organization, over one in three people are affected by neurological conditions, the leading cause of illness and disability worldwide, which include Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, depression and other disorders of the nervous system.

These conditions impose a profound burden on patients, their families and caregivers, healthcare systems and economies globally.

Despite decades of innovation, many existing therapies primarily manage symptoms rather than addressing underlying neural dysfunction. Current implantable devices, while often life-changing, rely on legacy electrode technologies that struggle to interface effectively with the brain’s complex electrochemical signalling.

To meaningfully advance diagnosis, treatment and recovery, we must develop neurotechnologies capable of communicating with the brain in its own language – with higher fidelity, adaptability and biocompatibility.

At INBRAIN Neuroelectronics, we believe that next-generation brain-computer interfaces must combine advanced neural materials with intelligent, adaptive systems.

Graphene, which is comprised of a single layer of carbon atoms – and the world’s thinnest material – offers unique advantages for neural interfaces, including exceptional electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility and biocompatibility.

These properties make it a compelling foundation for precision neuroelectronics capable of recording and modulating neural activity with unprecedented resolution.

Yet materials alone are not enough. The brain is dynamic, continuously changing over time, across contexts and with disease progression. To meet this complexity, neurotechnology must evolve from static devices into systems that can learn, adapt and respond in real time.

This is why we recently announced a collaboration with Microsoft to explore how agentic AI, powered by Microsoft's Azure AI infrastructure, can be applied to precision neurology and brain-computer interface therapeutics.

By integrating advanced time-series AI models with high-resolution neural data, we aim to enable brain-computer interfaces that continuously learn from individual patient signals and autonomously adjust stimulation or modulation strategies.

This real-time, autonomous and personalized therapeutics approach has the potential to fundamentally change how neurological disorders are monitored and treated, moving from reactive symptom management toward truly personalized, data-driven interventions.

Importantly, this convergence of AI and neurotechnology raises critical ethical considerations.

Brain-computer interfaces do not merely interact with the organ and body; they interface with cognition, perception and identity. As such, innovation in this field must be guided by clear principles that place human dignity at the centre.

Three pillars should define responsible progress in brain-computer interfaces:

The expansion of brain-computer interfaces offers extraordinary promise. Beyond therapeutic applications, brain-computer interfaces may enable new approaches to cognitive rehabilitation and restore communication for individuals living with severe neurological impairments.

At the same time, these technologies challenge us to rethink how innovation, ethics and governance intersect.

Progress in neuroelectronics cannot occur in silos. Scientists, engineers, clinicians, ethicists and policymakers must work together to establish standards that foster innovation while safeguarding public trust.

Transparency, education and engagement with patients and society at large will be critical as these technologies move from the laboratory into real-world care.

As we look toward the future of neurotechnology, the question before us is not simply how we can connect brains and machines but why and under what principles. The true measure of success will be whether these technologies empower individuals, preserve autonomy and enhance human dignity.

I look forward to attending the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos, Switzerland, for the first time this year, as a 2025 WEF Technology Pioneer and engaging with leaders who share a commitment to advancing neurotechnology responsibly.

The future of brain-computer interfaces is not just a technical challenge; it is a collective responsibility. If we innovate wisely, ethically and compassionately, we can ensure that progress in neuroscience strengthens, rather than diminishes, what it means to be human.