In a groundbreaking development for accessibility and neurotechnology, Synchron has announced that its brain-computer interface (BCI) will be the first to natively connect with Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro. The integration comes in response to Apple’s newly introduced BCI Human Interface Device (BCI HID) protocol, which officially recognizes thought-powered control as a valid form of digital input.
The collaboration marks a significant shift in how people with motor impairments can interact with technology. Synchron’s BCI, a system built to interpret brain signals, will now work seamlessly with Apple’s existing accessibility tools, such as Switch Control. The announcement signals a new era of hands-free, voice-free control for individuals affected by conditions like ALS, spinal cord injury, or stroke.
“This marks a defining moment for human-device interaction. BCI is more than an accessibility tool, it’s a next-generation interface layer,” said Dr. Tom Oxley, CEO and Co-Founder, Synchron. “Apple is helping to pioneer a new interface paradigm, where brain signals are formally recognized alongside touch, voice and typing. With BCI recognized as a native input for Apple devices, there are new possibilities for people living with paralysis and beyond.”
The technology operates through Synchron’s Stentrode™ implant, which captures neural signals and converts them into digital commands in real time. Unlike conventional assistive tools that rely on physical input like keyboards or voice, the BCI HID allows direct communication between the user’s brain and the device. The system can also process contextual feedback, such as screen layout, creating a more intuitive user experience.
“When we ask our clinical trial participants what they want to do, it’s always about communication and creativity,” said Kurt Haggstrom, Chief Commercial Officer at Synchron. “And to most people, that means using their Apple devices. For Apple to recognize that need, and respond to it, demonstrates how much they value accessibility for their users. It has been an honor to meet with their teams and provide feedback to help make BCI HID a reality.”
The response from the accessibility community has also been enthusiastic. “For people who’ve lost nearly all movement, implantable Brain-Computer Interface technology is a breakthrough full of possibility,” said Blair Casey, CEO of Team Gleason, an organization that supports ALS patients through advanced technology. “Today’s announcement represents a significant advancement in both accessibility and innovation. Apple is not only a global leader in creating accessible products, but in championing new standards for accessibility that improve lives in meaningful ways. This isn’t just about building tools, it’s about redefining what’s possible for people with disabilities.”
Synchron views the move as a key step toward broader compatibility in the BCI space. The goal is to create a system where any neural interface can work fluidly with any mainstream device, building a shared ecosystem across platforms and manufacturers.
The partnership with Apple follows years of clinical development. In 2019, Synchron became the first BCI company to begin human trials for a permanently implantable interface. Its system, inserted through blood vessels rather than requiring open brain surgery, is designed to be scalable and safe.
The integration with iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS is expected to enhance ongoing clinical trials and bring Synchron closer to commercial launch. Controlled rollouts with trial participants using the new Apple-compatible BCI HID features are anticipated to begin later this year.
Synchron is also introducing Chiral AI™, its proprietary cognitive foundation model, as part of its implantable system. With market projections placing the BCI industry’s future value in the hundreds of billions, Synchron aims to lead while keeping its development anchored in ethical principles and Cognitive Liberty.
