Medtronic Partners With Neuralink Rival Precision for Brain Tech

Medtronic Plc has partnered with Precision Neuroscience Corp. to co-develop a brain-computer interface (BCI) technology that integrates with Medtronic's neurosurgical platforms. The agreement, announced on January 12, 2026, represents the first public collaboration between a major medical device manufacturer and a brain implant startup. The partnership aims to enhance the precision of neurosurgical procedures by combining real-time data from Precision's cortical interface with Medtronic's existing tools.

The collaboration involves co-developing an integrated solution that combines Precision's Layer 7 cortical interface with the Medtronic StealthStation surgical navigation system. Precision's technology is designed to be minimally invasive and has already been tested in over 68 patients, according to the company. The new system is intended to provide neurosurgeons with real-time functional and structural brain information during operations.

The deal reflects a broader shift in the medical technology sector, where traditional device makers are increasingly engaging with emerging brain interface technologies. Medtronic, which has long sold deep-brain stimulators for Parkinson's disease, is now seeking to expand its offerings in the rapidly evolving BCI space. Precision, a startup backed by $180 million in funding, has positioned itself as a key player in the field with its patch-based technology.

Why the Move Happened

Medtronic's decision to partner with Precision reflects its long-term strategy to integrate advanced technologies into its neurosurgery portfolio. According to Brett Wall, Executive Vice President of Medtronic's Neuroscience business, the collaboration aligns with the company's vision to push the boundaries of neurological care.

Precision, for its part, sees the partnership as a way to accelerate clinical adoption of its BCI technology. CEO Michael Mager emphasized that integrating their technology into an existing surgical platform can significantly speed up the transition from research to real-world application.

How the Collaboration Works

The joint effort will result in a system that allows neurosurgeons to access both structural and functional brain data simultaneously during procedures. Currently, surgeons must rely on multiple tools to visualize different aspects of the brain, which can slow down decision-making. The new integrated system is expected to streamline this process by delivering comprehensive, real-time data in a single interface.

Precision's Layer 7 technology is designed to be less invasive than Neuralink's implantable chip and has already received FDA clearance for short-term use. Medtronic will also gain access to anonymized brain data from Precision, which can be used for further research and product development.

What Analysts Are Watching

Industry analysts are closely watching how the integration of BCI technology into mainstream neurosurgery proceeds. The global digital surgery technologies market is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by demand for more precise and data-rich surgical tools. Medtronic's move is seen as a strategic step to position itself in this emerging space.

Investors may also be monitoring the financial implications of the partnership. The brain interface sector has attracted over $2 billion in investment globally, and Precision is one of the most active players in the field. If the collaboration leads to successful commercialization, it could open new revenue streams for Medtronic in the neurological care segment.

The partnership also raises regulatory questions. While Precision's device has already been cleared for short-term use, long-term approval for broader applications will depend on clinical outcomes and regulatory evaluations. Medtronic, with its established presence in the medical device industry, is well-positioned to navigate these challenges.