The tech battle for your neural data is already underway

At the TED 2026 conference in Vancouver, D. Scott Phoenix, the CEO of the AI-research company Vicarious, gave a talk on the imminent merger of humans and artificial intelligence (AI) through implantable brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). This transhumanist perspective is widely shared by Silicon Valley executives, who view the integration as a necessary evolution to compete with superhuman AI.

Although neurotechnology remains in its infancy, the BCI market is projected to grow from $350 million to $1.2 billion by 2035. This commercial potential has sparked political and regulatory concern over the security of neural data. Current applications are primarily medical, such as Neuralink implants that enable paralysed individuals to control computers, although non-invasive wearable devices, including smart glasses and fitness or wellness trackers, are already widespread.

The proliferation of such devices allows companies to harvest neural data, which could be used for targeted advertising, behavioural surveillance, or consumer manipulation. Experts have warned that while neural data is an incredibly valuable commodity, it requires robust safeguards.

Training Announcement: The IAPP Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT) is a privacy-focused professional IT certificate from the IAPP that addresses data protection requirements and controls within complex technological environments. It explores the data lifecycle, privacy risk models and frameworks, the principles of Privacy by Design, and the role of privacy-enhancing technologies within the organisation. Find out more.