Technology of the year 2023

Brain–computer interfaces are our 2023 technology of the year.

With advances in capabilities coming hand in hand with calls for regulation, 2023 is proving to be a critical year for brain–computer interfaces.

Fifty years after the term brain–computer interface was coined, the neurotechnology is being pursued by an array of start-up companies using a variety of different technologies. But the path to clinical and commercial success remains uncertain.

Riki Banerjee, vice president of research and development at Synchron, tells Nature Electronics about the company’s work on brain–computer interfaces and the future of communications.

The responsible development of brain–computer interface technology requires careful consideration of issues related to access, equity and the management of expectations.

Optical interfaces could be used to address challenges related to scaling, precision and invasiveness in the development of brain–machine interfaces.

This Perspective explores the use of flexible electronics in the development of brain–computer interfaces, considering their potential impact on neuroscience, neuroprosthetic control, bioelectronic medicine, and brain and machine intelligence integration.