Ethical imperatives in the commercialization of brain-computer interfaces

Abstract

The rapid commercialization of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) raises urgent ethical and scientific challenges for human research oversight. While BCIs hold transformative potential for treating neurological disorders, their premature translation into consumer markets risks outpacing neuroscientific understanding and ethical frameworks. This essay critically examines the mismatch between commercial claims and the technical limitations of current BCI systems, decoding accuracy and biocompatibility, unresolved ethical dilemmas posed by neural data commodification and procedural risks, and the inadequacy of existing governance to address vulnerabilities in consent, privacy, and long-term safety. Responsible innovation demands proactive measures and robust public engagement to align development with societal values. Without such safeguards, the rush to commercialize BCIs risks prioritizing market interests over patient welfare and eroding public trust in neurotechnology.