Scientists have unveiled a new brain implant designed to create a fast, wireless link between the human brain and external computing systems that run artificial intelligence, a development researchers say could improve how AI interprets brain activity.
The device, developed by a team led by Columbia University, is an ultra-thin chip that sits on the surface of the brain and records brain signals at far higher data rates than many existing brain-computer interfaces.
Instead of relying on implanted hardware, the system sends brain data wirelessly to external computers, where AI software can analyse the signals in near real time.
Unsplash: silverkblackHow it works
According to the study, published in Nature Electronics and reported by Science Daily on December 9, 2025, a key limitation of current brain implants is bandwidth. Many systems collect relatively small amounts of data, which restricts how effectively advanced software can decode brain activity.
The new chip tackles that problem with thousands of tiny sensors on a surface thinner than a human hair. These sensors capture detailed brain signals and send them to external systems capable of running more complex decoding algorithms, including AI-based models.
Researchers said the implant itself is designed only to interface with the brain, while power and computing are handled by a wearable device outside the body. That separation allows the AI software to be updated and improved without additional surgery.
While still in early stages, the team believes the technology could eventually support AI-driven tools aimed at restoring movement, speech, or vision.
In other AI news, Disney has unveiled its first look at DisneyGPT, a new AI tool for employees, as part of a new $1 billion deal with OpenAI.
