# Synchron pauses brain implant trials over performance issues

> The brain-computer interface startup halts its second-generation device trials after the wireless Stentrode fails to work as expected in early participants.
- Title: Synchron pauses brain implant trials over performance issues
- Summary: The brain-computer interface startup halts its second-generation device trials after the wireless Stentrode fails to work as expected in early participants.
- Keywords: synchron, brain-computer interface, stentrode, clinical trials, neuralink, brain implant, wireless device, WIRED
- Source: WIRED — https://wired.com/story/synchron-pauses-trials-of-its-brain-implant-due-to-performance-issues
- Author: Emily Mullin
- Published: 2026-11-12T15:58:21.073+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: synchron, brain-computer interface, stentrode, clinical trials, neuralink, brain implant, wireless device
## Synchron halts second-generation trials
The Brooklyn-based brain implant company has paused clinical trials of its wireless Stentrode device after it failed to perform as expected in initial study participants.
## How the Stentrode works
The stent-like mesh tube is inserted into the jugular vein at the base of the neck, then guided with a catheter to sit on top of the brain's motor cortex, avoiding brain surgery.
## First-generation success
Ten volunteers across the US and Australia received the first-generation Stentrode with an external wire. They sent emails, texts, browsed the internet, and controlled Amazon Alexa and Apple devices with their thoughts.
## The wireless version's problem
The second-generation device has fewer electrodes and connects via Bluetooth. Synchron identified a performance issue involving the lead, the cable carrying signals from the Stentrode to implanted electronics.

> The issue does not involve the Stentrode itself and no safety issues related to the device have been identified.
## Company restructures and relocates
Synchron is eliminating jobs and scaling back its New York footprint while building up a team in San Diego to support development of an upgraded lead and an entirely new device.
## CEO remains confident
CEO Tom Oxley says Synchron still has strong confidence that the Stentrode has the potential to be a first-line therapy, despite the current setback and pause in enrollment.

> We still have strong confidence that it has the potential to be a first-line therapy.
## Synchron's funding and valuation
Synchron was estimated to have a nearly one billion dollar valuation after closing a two hundred million dollar funding round last fall.
## Field still experimental despite progress
While brain-computer interfaces show promise for people with severe motor disorders, Synchron's setback demonstrates how far the field still has to go before these systems are commercially available for patients.
## Key takeaway

Synchron has paused clinical trials of its wireless brain implant after performance problems emerged, forcing a redesign and restructuring that includes job cuts and a shift to San Diego.