In a groundbreaking announcement, Apple unveiled a new brain-to-computer interface (BCI) protocol as part of its expanding suite of accessibility tools. This innovation will allow users to operate iPhones, iPads, and Apple Vision Pro devices using only their thoughts — marking a major step forward in assistive technology.
Apple Introduces BCI Support in Switch Control
The new protocol, integrated into Apple’s existing Switch Control accessibility feature, enables seamless compatibility with cutting-edge BCI systems. These interfaces provide individuals with limited mobility the ability to control digital devices without any physical input.
Synchron, a neurotechnology company headquartered in New York, is among the first to adopt Apple’s new brain-computer interface protocol, pioneering thought-controlled access to iPhones, iPads, and Vision Pro devices. Synchron’s BCI system allows users with paralysis to control Apple devices directly through thought, eliminating the need for physical touch or voice commands.
"This signifies a major advancement in technology,” noted Tom Oxley, Synchron’s Co-Founder and CEO, highlighting the growing role of brain-computer interfaces in digital interaction. With Apple acknowledging brain activity as a native input alongside touch, voice, and typing, we’re entering a new era of interaction with technology. This opens up new possibilities for users with severe disabilities and sets the stage for the next era of human-device interaction.”
Synchron’s BCI Integration with Apple Ecosystem
The Stentrode, Synchron’s implantable brain-computer interface, is designed to work smoothly with Apple’s built-in accessibility tools, allowing users to control iPhones, iPads, and Vision Pro devices using only their thoughts. The system leverages Apple’s user-friendly UI, providing an intuitive and natural experience for users with neurological conditions.
According to Tetiana Aleksandrova, CEO of biotechnology company Subsense, Apple’s move signals the industry’s readiness to scale brain-computer technology. “This is Apple’s way of validating the entire BCI space,” she noted. “It means devices like the Stentrode can now plug directly into the Apple ecosystem — no middleware required.”
Aleksandrova emphasized that BCI fits perfectly within Apple’s long-term accessibility strategy. “Apple has a history of transforming specialized accessibility features into widely used technologies—like evolving VoiceOver into Siri and Switch Control into facial gestures. Integrating brain-computer interfaces is a natural progression of that innovation path.”
The Future of Accessibility and Brain-Controlled Interfaces
BCI technology could dramatically improve the digital experience for people with conditions like ALS or traumatic brain injuries, providing hands-free control and communication through thought alone.
Yet, despite Apple’s announcement, full-scale commercialization remains years away. As noted by Will Kerwin, a technology equity analyst at Morningstar, this technology is still in its early stages, with Synchron’s system tested on only 10 individuals so far. The company is also awaiting FDA approval, which could take several more years.
Still, the implications are far-reaching. Synchron’s approach — implanting devices via blood vessels rather than open-brain surgery — significantly reduces the risks and improves the scalability of BCI.
“Traditional BCIs require invasive surgery, which limits their accessibility,” explained Kimberly Ha, a Synchron spokesperson. “Our method is safer, less intrusive, and better suited for clinical use at scale.”
Overcoming Challenges in BCI Development
Developing BCI-compatible apps presents its own challenges. Aleksandrova pointed out the trade-off between signal strength and ease of access: “Invasive BCIs offer high-quality signals but carry surgical risks. Non-invasive options are safer but less accurate.”
Subsense is working on a solution that uses nanoparticles capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier to interact with neurons and transmit data — promising a bidirectional interface that’s both powerful and non-surgical.
Beyond Accessibility: BCI’s Potential in Gaming, XR, and Smart Homes
As BCI technology matures, its applications are expected to expand far beyond the medical field. Imagine browsing augmented reality displays, writing code, or piloting drones — all through thought alone.
“BCI has transformative potential for gaming, cognitive wellness, smart homes, and immersive XR,” said Aleksandrova. “Entertainment systems could adapt in real-time to your mood, while neural feedback could detect fatigue or anxiety before symptoms even surface.”
In the future, brainwave patterns might replace passwords, and your mind could seamlessly control connected devices. “BCI will become the interface of the future — and Apple just took a bold step toward that reality,” she added.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s embrace of BCI technology is not just about improving accessibility — it’s about redefining how humans interact with machines. As the field continues to evolve, Apple’s ecosystem could serve as the launchpad for thought-driven user experiences, paving the way for more inclusive and intuitive technology.