Local IT firm taps brain-computer interfaces as authorities map AI policy

In formulating its development plans, Macau authorities have proposed research into policy measures for artificial intelligence (AI) development, and while some commentators suggest that AI applications across various sectors are still in their infancy, a local IT solutions provider has already begun exploring brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies, primarily focusing on cultural tourism and lifestyle consumption scenarios.

The Macau IT solutions provider is BoardWare Intelligence Technology Limited, chaired by Chao Ka Chon, a government-appointed legislator specializing in information technology.

Reports indicate that the company, founded by Chao, was listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) in 2022, becoming the first and only technology enterprise from Macau to achieve this milestone. Additionally, the provider was awarded the 2024 Medal of Merit for Industry and Commerce by the Macau government.

In a recent interview with the Times, Chao shared his experience at the intersection of technology and disability, stating, “My own journey serves as an example. Several years ago, I met a group of young AI researchers at a tech competition who were using legacy hardware to help people with disabilities regain function or control wheelchairs. I found this project profoundly meaningful, so we began recruiting more young people to join this cause.”

Chao advised young individuals to engage in industry exchanges beyond competitions, emphasizing the importance of staying updated on the latest technological developments. “Technology evolves rapidly, and you cannot afford to fall behind,” he noted.

“I encourage young people to keep pace with technological trends and proactively seek out new knowledge to better integrate into this industry.”

BoardWare Intelligence Technology Limited established Barco Technology Limited in 2023 to develop brain-computer AI interaction systems that integrate human perception with AI training models. Its AI glasses were showcased at the recently concluded Global Artificial Intelligence Machines and Electronics Expo (AIE).

As a provider of diverse IT solutions and services – including professional IT services and managed services – to Macau government departments, public utilities, banks, schools, large-scale integrated resorts, and major enterprises, BoardWare Intelligence participated in a Q&A with the Times.

The interview explored the company’s insights on innovative technology, its development trajectory over the next five years, and its vision for the future of the brain-computer interaction field.

Macau Daily Times (MDT) – What specific technological innovations does the brain-computer AI interaction system feature, and how does it stand out compared with other similar products?

BoardWare Intelligence (BoardWare) – Our brain-computer AI interaction system integrates non-invasive brain-computer interfaces with artificial intelligence through key innovations. It uses active dry electrodes and multi-channel EEG100C electroencephalogram (EEG) amplifiers in consumer-grade devices, achieving near-research-grade signal quality.

Our algorithms synchronize multimodal data for millisecond-level alignment and employ AI-powered automatic labeling of “intent-emotion” tags, enhancing generalization through feature transfer learning and personalized calibration.

What distinguishes our system is its consumer-grade positioning and multimodal capabilities, minimizing clinical risks. Unlike traditional BCI systems focused on single-signal acquisition, our approach integrates multiple data sources for intent inference and emotion analysis, advancing toward a “human-machine symbiosis” future.

MDT – What is the current market demand for BCI technology, and what development trends do you foresee over the next five years?

BoardWare – The primary market for brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) is currently in healthcare, where they provide innovative solutions for hard-to-treat conditions, driving significant demand. Practical applications include functional restoration and treatment of neurological disorders, particularly with invasive technologies.

However, as AI advances, the non-medical BCI market is also emerging, with applications in consumer electronics, industrial safety, education, and entertainment using non-invasive technologies.

In the next five years, BCIs will evolve to meet diverse demands, with invasive systems focusing on high-quality neural signal capture for medical breakthroughs, while non-invasive systems will integrate with large-scale AI models. As costs decrease, BCIs are expected to enable smart device control and personalized education, transitioning from restoring to enhancing human capabilities.

MDT – What is your vision for BoardWare Intelligence and the brain-computer interaction field in the coming years?

BoardWare – We aim to become a leader in the BCI field through our “smart hardware + AI algorithms + ecosystem synergy” model. We envision a shift in human-computer interaction from “manual” to “mind-controlled,” transforming brain-computer AI systems into intelligent companions that anticipate needs and understand unspoken feelings, enhancing daily life and work naturally and comfortably.

We foresee the BCI field evolving toward greater naturalness, safety, and intelligence, with technology expanding from industrial applications into everyday life. Our goal is for our BCI AI interaction systems to be a vital vehicle for this vision, continuously pushing the boundaries of the field.

Youth called to build skills as AI advances

Chao Ka Chon said the government has stepped up efforts to encourage young people to engage with AI and other technology sectors.

He stated, “While many worry AI will replace jobs, it’s actually humans who create AI. Young people should focus on enhancing their market competitiveness to pave the way for their future development.”

Chao also discussed the significant challenge his team faced in developing brain-computer interface systems.

He explained, “Our traditional approach involved wet electrodes, which require conductive paste and caps for secure placement. While effective in the lab, this method isn’t practical for product use due to its high demands.”

He recalled that over the past year, they have developed dry electrode technology, enabling accurate brain signal capture with completely dry electrodes placed directly on the scalp.