WSJ Tech News Briefing: Apple Embraces Brain-Implant Technology to Control Devices

Episode Title: Apple Embraces Brain-Implant Technology to Control Devices
Host: The Wall Street Journal
Release Date: May 15, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of the WSJ Tech News Briefing, host Victoria Craig and reporter Amrith Ramkumar delve into two significant developments shaping the tech landscape. The first segment discusses the U.S. Commerce Department's decision to rescind the controversial AI diffusion rule and its implications for the chip industry and international relations. The second segment explores Apple's pioneering efforts in brain-implant technology, aimed at enhancing device accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

U.S. AI Diffusion Rule Rescinded: A New Chapter for the Chip Industry

Key Discussion Points:

• Background of the AI Diffusion Rule: Originally instituted during the Biden administration and briefly upheld by the Trump administration, the AI diffusion rule aimed to limit the export of advanced AI chips to certain countries, potentially hindering U.S. tech companies' global business opportunities.

• Commerce Department's Decision: Nvidia lauded the rescission as a "once in a generation opportunity" to lead the next industrial revolution and create high-paying U.S. jobs. The removal of the rule removes caps on AI chip sales to friendly nations, fostering more straightforward bilateral agreements.

• National Security Concerns: Despite the optimistic outlook from industry leaders, national security experts express apprehension. There are fears that relaxed controls might allow sensitive technologies to eventually reach adversarial nations like China through third-party transactions.

Notable Quotes:

• David Sachs, White House AI and Crypto Czar [02:08]:
  “Imagine if Washington had created a diffusion rule for the iPhone because it was worried about bad guys somehow getting a hold of iPhones and every iPhone transaction had to be licensed in Washington. This technology would not have spread all over the world. And the diffusion of iPhones is a very good thing for the United States of America. I think in a similar way we want our technology to diffuse.”

• Ralph Winkler, WSJ Reporter [02:49]:
  “A lot of companies thought that would limit their business opportunities abroad and push those countries to embrace Chinese companies like Huawei if they had easier access to those chips.”

Implications:

• Stock Market Reaction: The announcement led to a surge in tech stocks, reflecting investor confidence in the new bilateral approach.

• Future Negotiations: The Commerce Department plans to initiate country-specific agreements, prioritizing major allies like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. However, the process is expected to be lengthy, potentially taking several months to finalize.

• Technological Evolution: Rapid advancements in AI chip technology pose challenges in setting and maintaining effective export controls, as definitions of high-performing chips may quickly become outdated.

Apple and Brain-Implant Technology: Pushing the Boundaries of Accessibility

Key Discussion Points:

• Collaboration with Synchron: Apple has partnered with the startup Synchron to develop brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, enabling individuals who cannot use their hands to control Apple devices through neural signals.

• Functionality of the Technology: The implantable device reads neural signals via electrodes implanted in the skull. These signals are processed and translated into commands that can interact with Apple devices, such as scrolling or selecting items on an iPhone or Mac.

• Current Status and Future Prospects: Early trials demonstrate the potential of the technology, albeit at a slower pace compared to traditional input methods. Commercial availability is anticipated to be several years away, with some estimates suggesting approval might not occur before 2030, though Synchron aims to expedite this timeline.

Notable Quotes:

• Mark Jackson, Synchron User [10:24]:
  “The synchron implant can help a little bit. It's slow. This is the beginning of a clinical trial of this device. It's going to be a few years yet before it's proved out. It gets commercial approval, and lots of people are able to get these implanted.”

• Mark Jackson on Functionality [09:32]:
  “Apple is building the on ramp for them to make it easier for them to connect to its devices.”

User Experience Insight: Mark Jackson shared his personal experience with the implant, highlighting its current limitations. While the device allows him to interact with technology in ways previously unattainable, the process remains cumbersome compared to conventional input methods. Actions like selecting a movie on Netflix involve multiple thought commands, making tasks like scrolling and typing considerably slower.

Future Developments: Apple's integration of BCI technology represents a significant step towards enhancing device accessibility. By establishing standards and frameworks for connectivity, Apple is facilitating the seamless incorporation of advanced assistive technologies into its ecosystem, promising greater independence and interaction for users with disabilities.

Conclusion

This episode of WSJ Tech News Briefing shed light on pivotal advancements and policy shifts within the tech industry. The rescission of the AI diffusion rule opens new avenues for U.S. tech companies, albeit amidst ongoing security debates. Concurrently, Apple's venture into brain-implant technology underscores the company's commitment to accessibility and innovation. As these stories unfold, they underscore the dynamic interplay between technological progress, regulatory frameworks, and societal impact.

For more detailed insights and ongoing coverage, stay tuned to WSJ Tech News Briefing every weekday.