Synchron Challenges Neuralink with Minimally Invasive Brain-Tech Backed by Bezos and Gates
1min read Amid the rising interest from tech giants in neuroscience, a new player is challenging Elon Musk's Neuralink in the brain-computer interface arena. Backed by Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, the start-up Synchron is emerging with a less invasive alternative, making it a dark horse in this highly competitive race.
Founded by Dr. Tom Oxley, a neuroscientist driven by his experiences in treating ALS patients, Synchron took shape 12 years ago. Oxley was inspired to find a method to restore communication capabilities for patients with severe paralysis, including those affected by ALS, stroke, or spinal cord injuries. Unlike Neuralink, which requires removing portions of the skull, Synchron's approach avoids craniotomy by delivering a chip through the jugular vein, significantly reducing patient risk.
The Synchron device, known as Stentrode, is designed to be implanted in blood vessels near the brain's motor cortex, resembling a small, retractable pen coil. Upon detecting brain signals, it transmits them via a wire to a receiver implanted in the patient’s chest, akin to a pacemaker, with a battery life of up to ten years. This receiver connects through Bluetooth to external devices like computers or iPads, enabling patients to interact with digital platforms through thoughts.
Despite Synchron's innovative advances and raising $145 million with support from Bezos and Gates, the journey has not been without its challenges. In 2020, the company faced a financial near-crisis. However, a turning point came when Khosla Ventures, known for its early investment in OpenAI, led a $40 million funding round in 2021 after identifying Synchron's technology during a patent search for non-invasive brain interfaces.
By 2022, Synchron had successfully implanted its device in six U.S. patients and secured a further $75 million from Arch Ventures. The company marked another milestone earlier this year by completing the first of two major FDA clinical trials, showcasing the safety of its device.
While Neuralink remains a formidable contender with Musk's significant investment and ambition, Oxley admires Musk's transformative impact on tech innovation, even choosing to drive a Tesla. When asked why investors prefer Synchron over Neuralink, Oxley simply suggests that people like their skulls intact, implying the importance of minimal invasiveness for widespread acceptance.
Notably, Musk himself is aware of Synchron. Two years ago, as Synchron made strides in U.S. patient implants, Musk reached out to Oxley for a discussion which, despite the engagement, did not result in an investment.