Tianjin builds world-class brain-computer interface ecosystem

For a decade, Tianjin has quietly built an end-to-end ecosystem for non-invasive brain-computer interface technology ranging from raw electrodes and algorithms to hospital-ready medical devices. Now, experts say that long-term bet has paid off: the city's BCI capabilities have reached world-class standards.

But what does "world-class" actually mean in a field where global powers are jockeying for dominance? According to Ni Guangjian, executive deputy director of the Haihe Laboratory of Brain-Computer Interaction and Human-Machine Integration, BCI has become a core arena for international technological competition, with major nations striving to secure their own competitive edge. His laboratory, which holds three world records and manages the world's largest patent portfolio in the field, points to Tianjin's decade-long construction of a complete industrial chain, covering every step from R&D to real-world application, as the foundation of that achievement.

"Tianjin's unique strength lies in its complete industrial ecosystem, covering every link from electrodes, algorithms, and core chips to system integration and application demonstration," Ni said.

That ecosystem is not abstract. In the high-tech zone of Tianjin Binhai New Area, officials say a sound business environment and efficient commercialization channels have helped assemble nearly 20 upstream and downstream enterprises, forming a cluster that spans hardware R&D, software development, and system integration. The city has also invested in talent pipelines: in 2024, Tianjin University launched the country's first undergraduate academic program dedicated specifically to BCI.

One of the zone's key incubated companies, Tiankai Suishi (Tianjin) Intelligent Technology Co was founded in 2023 and has already moved its BCI-based medical devices and treatment solutions into dozens of hospitals across more than 10 provincial-level regions, according to Gu Bin, general manager of the company.

Gu outlined three areas where the technology is delivering value. In mental health, BCI supports screening and treatment for depression. In critical care, it enables rapid diagnosis of conditions such as hydrocephalus — the abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid. And for hearing rehabilitation, BCI-powered cochlear implants help children with hearing impairments not only perceive sounds but also understand language and achieve healthy physical and mental development.

Li Hangyu and Cai Muzi contributed to this story.