Articles tagged with "medical-devices"
MIT’s pills that communicate from stomach integrates biodegradable radio frequency antennas
Researchers at MIT have developed an innovative pill capsule that can communicate from within the stomach to confirm medication ingestion. The system integrates a biodegradable radio frequency (RF) antenna made from zinc embedded in a cellulose particle, which is safely absorbed by the body after use. The capsule’s outer layer consists of gelatin coated with cellulose and a metal layer (molybdenum or tungsten) that initially blocks RF signals. Once swallowed, the coating dissolves, releasing the drug and activating the RF antenna. The antenna then receives an external RF signal and transmits a confirmation signal indicating the pill has been consumed. This technology aims to improve medication adherence monitoring, especially for patients requiring strict regimens, such as transplant recipients on immunosuppressive drugs or individuals with chronic infections like HIV or tuberculosis. Traditional methods to improve adherence, such as long-lasting delivery capsules, are not compatible with all medications, so this communication-enabled pill offers an alternative by allowing healthcare providers to verify ingestion without altering the drug itself. The biodegradable design
IoTbiodegradable-antennasmedical-devicesradio-frequency-communicationdrug-monitoringhealth-technologysmart-pillsNerve-stimulating wearable targets heavy menstrual bleeding
Spark Biomedical has introduced OhmBody, a neurostimulation wearable designed to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding without drugs or hormones, debuting at CES 2026. Building on the company's prior FDA-cleared device for opioid withdrawal, OhmBody uses transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation to stimulate the vagus and trigeminal nerves around the ear. This nerve stimulation regulates the nervous system and influences blood flow by activating platelets in the spleen, thereby reducing menstrual blood loss. A recent peer-reviewed pilot study with 16 participants, including women with von Willebrand Disease and unexplained heavy bleeding, showed that daily use of OhmBody during menstruation reduced blood loss by over 50% and shortened periods by nearly 20%, alongside improvements in cramping, fatigue, and quality of life. Currently positioned as a non-invasive, hormone-free wellness device, OhmBody is not yet FDA-cleared but is moving toward medical approval, with further clinical trials planned. Spark Biomedical emphasizes the device’s
wearable-technologyneurostimulationhealth-techbioelectronic-medicinemedical-deviceswellness-wearablenerve-stimulationThe 33 top health and wellness startups from Disrupt Startup Battlefield
The article highlights 33 standout health and wellness startups selected from TechCrunch’s annual Startup Battlefield pitch contest, which narrows thousands of applicants to 200 contenders across categories. These startups showcase innovative technologies addressing critical healthcare challenges, ranging from AI-powered surgical room preparation (Akara) and affordable 3D-printed prosthetics (Arm Bionics) to electronic artificial skin for prosthetics (ArtSkin) and wearable EEG devices for stress monitoring (AWEAR). Many focus on accessibility and affordability, such as Care Hero’s tech-enabled caregiver network to address caregiver shortages, Che Innovations Uganda’s transport warmer for preterm babies in rural Africa, and MariTest’s bloodless malaria diagnostic tool designed for sub-Saharan Africa. Other notable innovations include AI-driven posture adjustment technology (ELLUSTRÖS), at-home heart and metabolic health assessments (Endless Health), and AI-based harmonization of fragmented electronic medical records (Eos.ai) to improve healthcare data utility. Additionally, startups like GLITCHERS
robotprostheticsAI-sensorswearable-technologymedical-deviceselectronic-skinautonomous-robotsInside the new stent that expands, contracts, and remodels with your heart
The article discusses a groundbreaking stent technology called DynamX, developed by Dr. Tamil Muthusamy, an interventional cardiologist. Unlike traditional drug-eluting stents (DES) that are rigid and can cause long-term complications due to their inability to move with the natural dynamics of the heart’s arteries, DynamX is designed to expand, contract, and remodel in sync with the artery. Traditional stents, while effective initially, have a 2–3% annual failure rate over ten years, leading to significant repeat procedures. This is largely because rigid stents restrict the artery’s natural pulsatility and rotational movements, especially in critical vessels like the left anterior descending artery (LAD), causing biological stress, cell damage, and excessive scar tissue formation. DynamX addresses these issues by using three interlocked helical coils held rigid by bioabsorbable polymers during the early healing phase. After about six months, the polymers dissolve, allowing the coils to unlock and the stent to
materialsbiomedical-materialsbioabsorbable-polymersmedical-devicesstent-technologycardiovascular-innovationadaptive-materialsSam Altman’s New Brain Venture, Merge Labs, Will Spin Out of a Nonprofit
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, is launching a new startup called Merge Labs, which is being spun out of the Los Angeles-based nonprofit Forest Neurotech. Merge Labs, still in stealth mode, will focus on developing ultrasound-based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to read brain activity. The company’s cofounders include Altman, Forest Neurotech’s CEO Sumner Norman, chief scientific officer Tyson Aflalo, and Alex Blania, CEO of the Altman-backed digital identity company World. Forest Neurotech, founded in 2023 as a focused research organization, has been working on ultrasound BCIs that detect brain activity indirectly by measuring blood flow changes, rather than electrical signals as done by competitors like Neuralink. Forest Neurotech’s ultrasound device is miniaturized from standard ultrasound machines and can also provide brain stimulation through focused sound waves. It is currently being trialed in the UK for safety, with potential applications in treating mental health disorders and brain injuries. One key advantage
robotbrain-computer-interfaceultrasound-technologyneural-engineeringbrain-machine-interfaceneurotechnologymedical-devicesStudents create closed-loop insulin pump software for diabetes care
A team of five biomedical engineering students from Texas A&M University, sponsored by Medtronic MiniMed, developed a prototype closed-loop algorithm for an implantable insulin pump system aimed at improving diabetes care for patients with Type 1 diabetes. Unlike many existing insulin pumps that require manual adjustments, this system automates insulin delivery by continuously communicating with a glucose monitor. The algorithm adjusts insulin doses based on real-time blood sugar levels, reducing the need for patient input and potentially easing the mental burden of disease management. Team member Jacob Kimbrough, who has Type 1 diabetes himself, contributed personal insight to the project, emphasizing the importance of automation in daily care. This innovation represents a step toward more advanced, artificial pancreas-like systems that operate inside the body rather than as external devices. Medtronic MiniMed views the students’ work as promising early progress and plans to further develop and refine the algorithm. The collaboration also provided valuable real-world engineering experience for the students and aligns with ongoing efforts to create safer,
IoThealthcare-technologyinsulin-pumpclosed-loop-systemdiabetes-managementbiomedical-engineeringmedical-devicesSovato CEO says big telesurgery advances are coming soon - The Robot Report
Sovato Health, led by co-founder and CEO Cynthia Perazzo, anticipates significant advancements in telesurgery within the next year, emphasizing that remote surgeries and procedures are inevitable. The company recently secured $26 million in Series B funding, including a first-time investment from Intuitive Surgical, underscoring growing industry confidence. Sovato collaborates closely with surgical robotics manufacturers, healthcare systems, and surgeons to prepare for market readiness and regulatory approval of telesurgery technologies. Their platform is device-agnostic, aiming to integrate multiple robotic systems within health networks to enable remote, minimally invasive procedures. Perazzo highlighted Sovato’s role as an intermediary connecting device manufacturers and healthcare providers, facilitating safe and scalable telesurgery. The company has co-authored industry technical guidelines with cybersecurity and device experts from major firms like Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson, and Intuitive Surgical, alongside clinical leaders, to establish standards for remote surgical procedures. Sovato is also working with key opinion leaders and surgeons to develop tools that
robottelesurgerysurgical-roboticsremote-surgerymedical-deviceshealthcare-technologyrobotics-integrationParadromics Gets FDA Approval to Trial Its Brain Implant in People
Paradromics, an Austin-based brain implant developer, has received FDA approval to begin human trials of its Connexus device, aiming to restore speech for people with severe motor impairments who have lost the ability to speak. The upcoming trial, starting early next year, will initially involve two participants implanted with the device long-term to assess its safety and effectiveness in enabling synthesized speech and text communication. The implant records signals from individual neurons in the brain’s motor cortex, decoding intended speech movements to generate words that can be displayed on a screen and read aloud using AI-generated voice clones, assuming prior voice recordings exist. The Connexus implant is a small metal disk with 421 microwire electrodes that directly interface with brain tissue, allowing for high-bandwidth data transfer between the brain and a computer. Paradromics aims to achieve faster communication speeds, potentially up to 60 words per minute, which is about half the speed of normal speech. This approach contrasts with other brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) like
robotbrain-computer-interfaceneural-implantmedical-devicesAI-voice-synthesisneural-engineeringFDA-approvalJury says Apple owes Masimo $634M for patent infringement
A federal jury in California has ruled that Apple must pay Masimo $634 million for infringing on a patent related to blood oxygen monitoring technology. The jury found that specific features of the Apple Watch, including workout mode and heart rate notifications, violated Masimo’s patent. Masimo emphasized the importance of protecting its intellectual property to continue developing patient-benefiting technology, while Apple announced plans to appeal the verdict, noting that the patent in question expired in 2022 and pertains to older patient monitoring technology. The legal battle centers on pulse oximetry technology, which uses optical sensors to detect blood flow. Masimo accused Apple of hiring away key employees and infringing on its patents. In 2023, the U.S. International Trade Commission sided with Masimo, banning the import of Apple Watches with blood oxygen monitoring features, which led to the removal of this functionality from recent Apple Watch models. In response, Apple redesigned the feature so that blood oxygen readings are processed on the paired iPhone rather than
IoTwearable-technologypatent-infringementpulse-oximetrymedical-devicesApple-Watchhealth-monitoringLEMO launches REDEL SP 1P68 Series watertight connectors - The Robot Report
LEMO has introduced the REDEL SP IP68 Series, a new line of high-performance, watertight connectors designed for demanding applications such as medical devices, test and measurement equipment, and drones. These connectors feature a resin-free IP68 sealing that ensures full protection against water and dust without the need for resin or potting, simplifying assembly and maintaining reliability. Constructed from FDA-certified PPSU, the connectors are lightweight, durable, and resistant to repeated sterilization and harsh cleaning agents. The patented internal Push-Pull latching system provides secure, ergonomic, and watertight connections, supporting up to 22 contacts within a compact 15.5 mm diameter footprint for high-density connectivity in tight spaces. LEMO emphasizes the REDEL SP IP68 Series’ compliance with strict medical and industrial standards, highlighting its robust design that withstands mechanical shocks and challenging environments. The company also offers custom BioCompatic medical-grade cables that complement the connectors by providing flexibility, biocompatibility, sterilization
robotconnectorsIP68-sealingmedical-devicesdroneshigh-density-connectivitydurable-materialsWireless brain chips self-implant after injection, heal from within
MIT researchers have developed microscopic, wireless bioelectronic devices called “circulatronics” that can be injected into the bloodstream and autonomously self-implant in targeted brain regions without invasive surgery. These ultra-small devices, about one-billionth the length of a grain of rice, combine nanoelectronics with living biological cells, allowing them to evade immune rejection and naturally cross the blood-brain barrier. Once implanted, they can be wirelessly powered to stimulate neurons with micrometer precision, offering potential treatments for neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, brain cancer, and brain inflammation. The circulatronics were successfully tested in animal trials, where they navigated the circulatory system to deliver localized neuromodulation without harming surrounding neurons. Fabricated using CMOS-compatible processes and integrated with living cells, these biohybrid implants create a brain-computer symbiosis that could revolutionize neural disease treatment, especially where traditional therapies fail. The research team, led by Deblina Sarkar at MIT
IoTwireless-technologybioelectronicsbrain-implantsneuromodulationorganic-semiconductorsmedical-devicesLaser-activated pill can 3D print bio-ink to repair internal injuries
Researchers at EPFL’s School of Engineering have developed a novel swallowable device called the Magnetic Endoluminal Deposition System (MEDS) that can bioprint living bio-ink directly onto damaged internal tissues, such as those in the gastrointestinal tract. MEDS combines bioprinting technology with magnetically guided capsules, enabling minimally invasive internal wound repair without surgery. The pill-sized device contains a chamber of bio-ink—a living gel scaffold for new cell growth—and uses a spring-plunger mechanism activated externally by a near-infrared laser. An external magnet mounted on a robotic arm then precisely steers the capsule to the injury site, allowing targeted deposition of bio-ink without incisions. Initial tests on artificial stomach tissue demonstrated MEDS’s ability to repair simulated ulcers and seal mock hemorrhages. Subsequent in-vivo experiments in rabbits confirmed safe navigation and retrieval of the capsule via magnetic guidance, as well as successful bio-ink deposition in the gastric tract. The bio-ink
robotbioprintingmedical-devicesmagnetic-guidancebio-inkminimally-invasive-surgerylaser-activationMicrobot Medical receives first Japanese patent for LIBERTY - The Robot Report
Microbot Medical, developer of the LIBERTY Endovascular Robotic System, has received its first Japanese patent covering the core technology of its compact robotic device designed to drive and manipulate elongate surgical tools. This milestone follows recent patents granted in the U.S., China, and Israel, as well as FDA 510(k) clearance in September. The company aims to expand beyond its initial focus on the U.S. market into strategically important regions like Japan, leveraging FDA clearance to potentially expedite local regulatory approvals and adoption. The LIBERTY system is designed to enhance precision, safety, and efficiency in neurovascular, cardiovascular, and peripheral vascular procedures through remote-controlled, single-use robotic technology. Microbot highlights that LIBERTY’s compact design could reduce procedure costs and improve care quality. Additionally, a recently granted patent for a modular robotic surgical system may enable adapting LIBERTY for a broader range of endovascular applications. To support ongoing development, commercialization, and regulatory efforts, Microbot plans to raise up
roboticsmedical-roboticssurgical-robotsendovascular-proceduresrobotic-surgeryhealthcare-technologymedical-devicesThis Startup Wants to Put Its Brain-Computer Interface in the Apple Vision Pro
Startup Cognixion is launching a clinical trial to integrate its noninvasive brain-computer interface (BCI) technology with Apple’s Vision Pro headset to help paralyzed individuals with speech impairments communicate using their thoughts. Unlike implant-based BCIs from companies like Neuralink, Cognixion’s system uses a custom headband equipped with six EEG sensors that detect brain signals related to visual fixation, enabling users to select options via mental attention. The trial will involve up to 10 participants in the US with speech disorders caused by conditions such as spinal cord injury, stroke, traumatic brain injury, or ALS. Cognixion’s technology combines hardware with AI-driven software that customizes communication models based on each user’s speech history and patterns, allowing for near-normal conversation speeds. Previously tested with ALS patients using their own Axon-R headset, the company now aims to leverage the broader functionality and app ecosystem of the Vision Pro to democratize access to BCI communication tools. Cognixion’s approach focuses
robotbrain-computer-interfacewearable-technologyassistive-technologyaugmented-realityAI-communicationmedical-devicesKorean researchers create bone-healing gun, offers faster treatment
Korean researchers at Sungkyunkwan University have developed a handheld “bone-healing gun,” a 3D-printing device that extrudes biodegradable polymer scaffolds directly onto fractured bones to accelerate healing. Unlike traditional metal grafts and titanium implants, which are costly and difficult to customize, this device uses a biocompatible filament made from a blend of polycaprolactone and hydroxyapatite. This material melts at a safe 60 °C, allowing it to bond securely to bone tissue without damaging surrounding areas, while providing strength comparable to natural bone and gradually degrading as new bone grows. Early animal trials on rabbits with femur fractures showed that the bone-healing gun significantly sped up recovery compared to standard bone cement. However, the slow degradation rate of the scaffold material limited full fracture restoration, indicating the need for further improvements before human trials. The researchers aim to enhance the material’s biodegradation speed and incorporate antibiotics to release infection-fighting drugs during healing. Additional challenges include ensuring
materialsbiodegradable-polymers3D-printingbone-healingbiomedical-engineeringmedical-devicespolymer-scaffolds3D printing creates human tissue with stretch and blood-like fluids
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities have developed an advanced 3D printing technique that produces human tissue models with realistic mechanical properties and blood-like fluids, significantly improving the fidelity of surgical training tools. By controlling microscopic patterns within the printed material, the team achieved tissues that mimic the strength and stretchiness of real organs. Additionally, they incorporated sealed microcapsules containing blood-like liquids to enhance the models’ realism without compromising the printing process. Surgeons who tested these models rated them higher than conventional replicas in tactile feedback and cutting response, suggesting that such improvements could lead to safer and more effective surgical practice. The research team, including experts from mechanical and biomedical engineering and collaborators from the University of Washington, also developed a mathematical formula to predict tissue behavior under stress. While scaling the technology for widespread use will take time, the method shows strong potential for specialized, low-volume training scenarios. Future research aims to replicate various organ shapes and functions, develop bionic organs, and integrate materials responsive to advanced surgical tools
3D-printingbiomaterialssurgical-trainingtissue-engineeringmedical-devicessynthetic-organsbiomedical-engineeringMagnet-controlled soft metamaterial resists acid and holds shape
Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel soft metamaterial that can rapidly change size and shape under remote magnetic control, combining exceptional flexibility with high strength and stability. Unlike traditional materials, this metamaterial’s properties arise from its engineered geometry rather than its chemical composition. It features “programmed multistability” enabled by trapezoidal supports and reinforced beams that lock the structure into new shapes even after external forces are removed. The material withstands compressive loads over ten times its weight and remains functional under extreme temperatures and corrosive conditions, such as those found in the human stomach. Constructed using 3D-printed molds, the metamaterial’s microarchitecture allows it to switch between open and closed states with magnetic triggers, retaining its shape afterward, effectively giving it a form of memory. Larger structures made by linking unit cells can perform complex motions like peristaltic waves, enabling controlled movement or fluid delivery. This soft, adaptable design aims to reduce risks associated with rigid implantable devices, such
materialssoft-metamaterials3D-printingmedical-devicesremote-controlprogrammable-materialsmicroarchitectureSoft robotic intubation device enables 87% first-pass success rate
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have developed a novel soft robotic intubation system (SRIS) that significantly improves the success rate and speed of endotracheal intubation, a critical procedure to maintain an open airway. Unlike traditional rigid laryngoscopes that require lifting the epiglottis and pushing a stiff tube into the trachea, the SRIS uses a soft, inflatable tube that everts and grows forward along the natural airway pathway, reducing tissue injury and friction. This innovative design allows the tube to automatically curve into the trachea, accommodating anatomical variations without the need for forceful manipulation. Testing on mannequins and cadavers demonstrated that expert users achieved a 100% success rate, while emergency responders such as EMTs and paramedics reached a 96% overall success after just five minutes of training. Non-experts attained an 87% first-pass success rate, placing the tube in an average of 21 seconds—less than half the time required by current
roboticssoft-roboticsmedical-deviceshealthcare-technologyemergency-medicinerobotic-intubationmedical-roboticsEyebot gets $20M Series A to boost to expand eye care access
Eyebot, a Boston-based startup founded in 2021, has raised $20 million in a Series A funding round to expand its innovative vision care solution. The company offers a 90-second vision test via kiosks located in malls, universities, retail stores, pharmacies, schools, and airports, providing doctor-verified glasses prescriptions quickly and conveniently. By removing traditional barriers such as appointment delays, limited access, insurance complexities, and high costs, Eyebot aims to streamline vision care access. To date, the startup has conducted over 45,000 free vision tests and projects delivering more than half a million annually. Each test result is reviewed and approved by licensed eye doctors, ensuring clinical oversight and reliability, with referrals for in-person exams if abnormalities are detected. Eyebot’s model has gained traction with large U.S. partners and retailers, driving significant user engagement and revenue growth. The company leases its kiosks to optical retailers, eyewear brands, and independent practices, offering free vision
robothealthcare-technologyvision-test-kioskmedical-devicesAI-in-healthcaretelemedicinedigital-healthIntuitive Surgical GM Iman Jeddi to share at RoboBusiness how the company keeps innovating - The Robot Report
Intuitive Surgical, a leader in surgical robotics for over two decades, continues to innovate beyond iterative improvements with its next-generation da Vinci 5 system. Recently achieving a 4,000-mile telesurgery demonstration and obtaining the CE mark for the robot, the company has redesigned the da Vinci platform to incorporate foundational computing power that enables advanced features such as force feedback, enhanced instruments, and machine vision. These capabilities aim to deepen surgical insights and improve the surgeon’s interface, positioning Intuitive to maintain leadership in a competitive and maturing surgical robotics market. Iman Jeddi, Ph.D., senior vice president and general manager of Intuitive’s multiport platform, will share insights on this innovation journey and the strategic thinking behind designing for the future of digital surgery during her keynote at RoboBusiness 2025. Dr. Jeddi brings over 20 years of medical device experience, including leadership roles at Intuitive Surgical since 2013 and prior work at Abbott Laboratories contributing to FDA-approved medical devices. At Int
robotsurgical-roboticsda-Vinci-systemmedical-devicestelesurgerymachine-visiondigital-surgeryKorea unveils world’s first wireless OLED contact lens for eye tests
Korean researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) have developed the world’s first wireless OLED contact lens designed for on-the-go electroretinography (ERG), a diagnostic test that measures the electrical response of retinal cells. This ultrathin (12.5 μm) organic light-emitting diode (OLED) is integrated into a flexible contact lens, enabling retinal function testing without the need for traditional bulky equipment like the Ganzfeld device, which requires patients to sit still in dark rooms. The lens operates wirelessly via a power antenna and control chip at a 433 MHz resonant frequency, allowing stable communication and control through a smartphone-linked sleep mask. Unlike conventional inorganic LEDs, which are rigid and emit light from a single point, the OLED contact lens provides a diffusive, gentle light source that avoids heat damage and produces clear ERG signals at low luminance levels (126 nits). Animal tests confirmed the device’s safety, showing it maintains eye surface temperature below
IoTwearable-technologyOLEDwireless-power-transfermedical-devicessmart-contact-lensretinal-diagnosticsApple’s blood oxygen monitoring returns to its latest Apple Watches
Apple has reintroduced its Blood Oxygen monitoring feature on select Apple Watch models—Series 8, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra—through a redesigned approach that complies with a U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) import ban. Instead of measuring blood oxygen levels directly on the watch, the updated feature calculates the data on the paired iPhone, with results accessible via the Respiratory section of the Health app. This change follows a recent U.S. Customs ruling allowing Apple to import watches with this modified functionality, but it only applies to devices sold after the ITC ban took effect in early 2024. Existing models and units sold outside the U.S. remain unaffected. The ITC ban originated from a legal dispute with medical device maker Masimo, which accused Apple of infringing on its pulse oximetry patents after failed collaboration talks. In 2023, Masimo won the import ban at the ITC, forcing Apple to remove the original blood oxygen feature. Apple has
IoTwearable-technologyhealth-monitoringApple-Watchblood-oxygen-sensormedical-devicessoftware-updateNew $5 wound sensor tracks healing without removing dressings
Researchers at RMIT University in Australia have developed a $5 Bluetooth-enabled wearable wound sensor that monitors healing without the need to remove dressings. The device continuously tracks key biomarkers such as temperature, pH, and inflammation—critical indicators of infection and wound healing progress—reducing the risk of bacterial contamination associated with frequent dressing changes. Early lab tests demonstrate that the sensor conforms well to curved body surfaces, making it practical for real-world use. The team is now preparing to collaborate with industry partners to advance the technology into clinical trials. A notable feature of this innovation is its reusability and sustainability, as it is made from biocompatible materials designed for durability, contrasting with many disposable smart bandages that generate medical waste. The sensor integrates seamlessly into existing medical manufacturing processes and could be produced at a cost below $5 per unit when scaled, potentially making it accessible for both developed and developing healthcare systems. This technology builds on RMIT’s patented high-resistivity silicon-based sensor platform capable of
IoTwearable-technologywound-sensorBluetooth-sensormedical-devicessmart-bandagehealthcare-technologyKleiner Perkins-backed Ambiq pops on IPO debut
Ambiq Micro, a 15-year-old company specializing in energy-efficient chips for wearable and medical devices, made a strong debut on the public market with its IPO on July 30, 2025. The stock closed at $38.53 per share, a 61% increase from its initial $24 IPO price, valuing the company at approximately $656 million, up significantly from its $450 million private valuation in 2023. Ambiq positions itself to benefit from AI-driven growth by offering low-energy edge processors capable of integrating more intelligence and AI functionalities, as highlighted by CTO Scott Hanson. Financially, Ambiq reported a net loss of $8.3 million on $15.7 million in revenue for Q1 2025, showing a slight improvement compared to the same period in 2024. The company’s largest outside investors include Kleiner Perkins and Singapore’s state-backed EDB Investments. Notably, Kleiner Perkins partner Wen Hsieh has been a long-term
energyenergy-efficient-chipsAI-edge-processorswearable-devicesmedical-devicessemiconductorIPO-technologyThe Hyperflexible People Who May Help Unlock Better Sleep Apnea Treatments
In 2023, Dr. Mitchell Miller, a sleep medicine specialist in Florida, encountered an atypical sleep apnea patient: a 33-year-old slender woman with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a genetic disorder causing hyperflexibility and tissue laxity. EDS patients have a sixfold increased risk of sleep apnea due to looseness in muscles and tissues that help keep the airway open during sleep. Miller diagnosed her with moderate to severe apnea and treated her with an experimental therapy called hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS), which involves implanting a device that sends electrical pulses to the nerve controlling tongue movement to prevent airway blockage. This approach led to a complete and lasting resolution of her sleep apnea symptoms over two years. The case highlights the need for better sleep apnea treatments beyond the standard continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, which many patients find uncomfortable or intolerable. Despite CPAP’s effectiveness, only about 30% of users maintain long-term adherence. HG
medical-devicessleep-apnea-treatmentimplantable-devicesnerve-stimulationhealth-technologywearable-medical-technologypatient-controlled-devicesThere's Neuralink—and There's the Mind-Reading Company That Might Surpass It
The article contrasts two brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies aimed at helping people with paralysis regain autonomy: Elon Musk’s Neuralink and the startup Synchron. Unlike Neuralink, which requires invasive open-skull brain surgery, Synchron’s BCI is implanted via a less invasive procedure through blood vessels, avoiding direct brain surgery. The article follows Mark Jackson, a 65-year-old man with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), who uses Synchron’s implant to control a computer game with his thoughts. Despite his paralysis, Jackson can steer a cursor by thinking about specific hand movements, demonstrating how the system decodes neural signals linked to intended actions using AI-powered software. Jackson’s journey highlights the potential of Synchron’s technology to restore independence for people with neurodegenerative diseases. After a multi-hour implantation procedure and months of calibration, Jackson successfully connected the internal implant with an external unit, enabling him to interact with digital devices through thought alone. While the implant does not slow ALS progression, it offers a new
robotbrain-computer-interfaceneural-technologyassistive-technologymedical-devicesneurotechnologyALS-treatmentSweat strengthens new skin-safe adhesive for medical devices
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a novel skin-safe adhesive for wearable medical devices that improves its grip when exposed to sweat, addressing common issues of skin irritation caused by traditional adhesives. This new adhesive is based on polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs), water-based materials that bond gently to the skin and reduce rashes, redness, and inflammation often triggered by solvent-based adhesives used in current glucose monitors, heart rate trackers, and other health devices. Unlike conventional adhesives made from acrylates or methacrylates, the PEC adhesive’s performance actually improves with moisture, making it particularly suitable for long-term wear. Led by Dr. Jaime Grunlan, the research team demonstrated that the salt content in sweat enhances the adhesive strength of PECs, matching the effectiveness of commercial products like 3M Tegaderm without causing discomfort. This discovery builds on previous work with PEC coatings for industrial applications and extends their use into biomedical devices, potentially benefiting patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes and
wearable-technologymedical-devicesskin-safe-adhesivepolyelectrolyte-complexesbiocompatible-materialshealthcare-IoTsweat-activated-adhesiveBlackBerry QNX is optimistic on robotic surgery but says autonomy isn't here yet - The Robot Report
BlackBerry QNX, known for its critical embedded systems and real-time operating system (QNX OS 8.0), recently released the Age of the Robot study, revealing strong global tech leader trust in robotics, with 77% trusting robots for essential workplace functions and 71% of organizations using or planning to use robotics soon. Jim Hirsch, QNX’s VP for North American and EMEA embedded markets, highlighted the company’s significant role in medical devices, especially in functionally safe robotic systems critical for applications like robotic telesurgery. He emphasized the necessity of real-time responsiveness and safety standards in surgical robotics, noting recent advances such as a successful remote surgery performed between Orlando, Florida, and Angola. Despite progress in robot-assisted surgeries, Hirsch stressed that fully autonomous, AI-driven surgical robots remain years away, drawing parallels to the gradual development of autonomous vehicles that still require human oversight. He underscored that current surgical robots need a human physician responsible for the procedure, and full autonomy in surgery will
roboticssurgical-roboticsautonomous-surgeryreal-time-operating-systemBlackBerry-QNXmedical-devicesrobotic-telesurgeryChina: Paralyzed patient regains limb function with new brain-chip
A research team led by Professor Duan Feng at Nankai University in China has conducted the world’s first human trial of a brain-computer interface (BCI) implanted via blood vessels, enabling a 67-year-old stroke patient with hemiplegia to regain voluntary limb movement. Unlike more invasive methods such as Elon Musk’s Neuralink, this minimally invasive procedure involved inserting a stent electrode with 50-micrometre thick electrodes into the patient’s brain blood vessels through a vein in the neck. The electrodes connect wirelessly to an implanted device, allowing real-time EEG signal transmission and functional electrical stimulation that supports motor training and neuroplasticity. Following treatment, the patient regained the ability to grasp objects and perform daily tasks without side effects like infection or thrombosis. This breakthrough builds on prior animal studies where BCIs controlled movements in sheep and monkeys, marking a significant advancement in interventional BCI surgery. The Chinese trial demonstrates not only the safety and efficacy of this minimally invasive approach but
brain-computer-interfaceroboticsneurotechnologymedical-devicesfunctional-electrical-stimulationwireless-implantsstroke-rehabilitationScientists develop painless biopsy patch thinner than a human hair
Scientists at King’s College London have developed a revolutionary biopsy patch embedded with nanoneedles that are 1,000 times thinner than a human hair, offering a painless, non-invasive alternative to traditional biopsies. Unlike conventional methods that require cutting or removing tissue, this patch gently extracts molecular information such as lipids, proteins, and mRNA directly from living cells without causing pain, scarring, or tissue destruction. This innovation could significantly improve diagnosis and monitoring of diseases like brain cancer and Alzheimer’s by enabling earlier detection and more frequent sampling, which was previously impossible with invasive biopsies. The patch’s development involved a multidisciplinary collaboration across King’s College London, the University of Edinburgh, and Ben Gurion University, combining expertise in nanoengineering, oncology, cell biology, and artificial intelligence. In preclinical studies, the patch successfully collected detailed molecular “fingerprints” from brain cancer tissues, with AI and mass spectrometry analyses providing real-time insights into disease progression and treatment response. The technology promises to
nanoneedlesbiopsy-patchnanotechnologymedical-devicespersonalized-medicineAI-in-healthcaremolecular-diagnosticsA Neuralink Rival Just Tested a Brain Implant in a Person
Paradromics, an Austin-based neurotechnology company founded in 2015, has conducted its first human test of Connexus, a brain implant designed to restore speech and communication in people with paralysis caused by spinal cord injury, stroke, or ALS. The device translates neural signals into synthesized speech, text, and cursor control by recording electrical activity from individual neurons via 420 tiny electrodes embedded in the brain tissue. The initial human implantation occurred on May 14 at the University of Michigan during epilepsy surgery, where the device was temporarily inserted into the temporal lobe using a specialized EpiPen-like tool. This procedure allowed researchers to confirm the device’s ability to capture neural signals with high resolution, which is critical for accurately decoding intended speech. Connexus is part of a growing field of brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies, including Elon Musk’s Neuralink and Synchron, which also develop implants to interpret neural signals but differ in electrode design and signal resolution. Unlike other devices that record from groups of neurons, Paradromics’ implant targets individual neurons to achieve higher-quality signals. BCIs do not read private thoughts but decode neural patterns associated with intended movements, such as facial muscle activity involved in speech. Recent studies from Stanford and UC San Francisco have demonstrated the ability to decode intended speech at rates approaching half of normal speaking speed in paralyzed individuals. Paradromics aims to launch a clinical trial by the end of 2023 to implant Connexus long-term in patients with paralysis, advancing toward commercial availability despite the regulatory and technical challenges of fully implantable brain devices.
robotbrain-computer-interfaceneural-implantsmedical-devicesneurotechnologyassistive-technologybiomedical-engineering