A Chinese brain chip project has expanded its human trials, aiming to implant 13 patients with its semi-invasive Beinao No.1 device by the end of the year.

Backed by the Chinese Institute for Brain Research and NeuCyber NeuroTech, the project may soon overtake Elon Musk's Neuralink in patient numbers.

Early results have shown paralysed patients using the chip to control robotic arms and transmit thoughts to a computer screen. The developers from China plan a larger clinical trial next year with 50 participants, pending regulatory approval.

The team is also working on a more advanced wireless chip similar to Neuralink's, expected to begin human testing within 18 months.

While funding remains a challenge, scientists stress their focus is on helping patients, not profit.

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