Starfish Neuroscience, backed by Gabe Newell, plans to launch a wireless, battery-free brain chip by late 2025, targeting medical and consumer BCI applications.
![]() |
With no cords or batteries, Starfish Neuroscience's brain chip promises minimally invasive neurotech for medical therapy and immersive gaming by late 2025. Image: CH |
SEATTLE, USA — May 29, 2025:
Starfish Neuroscience, the brain-computer interface (BCI) startup founded by Valve CEO Gabe Newell, is preparing to launch its first cordless neural chip by the end of 2025. This breakthrough device is designed to challenge Elon Musk’s Neuralink, offering a novel, non-invasive approach to connecting the human brain with machines.
Unlike traditional neural implants, Starfish’s chip is completely wireless, battery-free, and operates on just 1.1 milliwatts of power—eliminating the need for bulky external equipment. The device is capable of interacting with multiple regions of the brain simultaneously, paving the way for next-generation applications in both healthcare and consumer electronics.
Initially aimed at treating neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and other motor dysfunctions, the chip is also designed with broader capabilities. Gabe Newell has long been intrigued by the potential for neurotechnology to enhance gaming experiences. His vision includes future scenarios where players can modulate emotions or immerse themselves in virtual environments using direct brain input.
Founded in 2019, Starfish Neuroscience has operated in stealth mode until now. As it readies for launch, the company is seeking partnerships with firms focused on wireless power transmission, low-latency communication, and customized interface hardware. Their goal is to bridge the gap between clinical effectiveness and seamless human-machine interaction.
While the 2025 release will target medical applications, Starfish’s long-term ambition is to extend the technology to prosthetics control, sensory restoration for paralyzed individuals, and immersive gaming experiences that respond directly to brain signals.
Industry experts view the Starfish chip as a potential paradigm shift in both medical and consumer technology. Its low-power, minimally invasive design may make it the most user-friendly neural implant on the market, enabling broader adoption in healthcare and beyond.
As anticipation builds, Starfish Neuroscience’s innovation is gaining traction among neurologists, technologists, and futurists alike. The company’s fusion of medical utility with next-gen interactivity hints at a future where integrated human-AI systems could be as common as smartphones today—marking a new era in neurotechnology.