At Innovation Day – AI Made Real 2026, professor Pim Haselager invited the audience to explore how neurotechnology unites artificial intelligence and brain science. His keynote shared a view on a rapidly-developing field, where intelligent systems decode brain activity and influence neural states in ways that seemed like science fiction only a decade ago.
“Neurotechnology is progressing quickly and deserves attention from anyone shaping future experiences.”
Prof. Pim Haselager, Radboud University Nijmegen
Although the talk focused on neuroscience, it resonated with the conversations about user experiences throughout the event. Neurotechnology offers early signals of a future where AI adapt more precisely to cognition, emotion and intent.
Neural networks: the bridge between the human brain and AI
Pim began by explaining how deep learning neural networks learn patterns through examples. Short clips showed AI models gradually discovering strategies to solve classic games after seeing nothing but raw pixels. These examples demonstrated two ideas: neural networks are powerful pattern-recognition systems, and their internal logic often exceeds our ability to explain exactly how they arrive at solutions.
This served as a bridge to neuroscience. The same architectures that classify images or learn behavioral patterns can also decode patterns in brain activity. AI becomes the translation layer that helps us understand neural signals.
Decoding the brain: using AI to learn what the brain thinks
The first scientific theme was brain decoding, which involves correlating electrical signals from the brain with perception, intention or mental imagery.
Pim shared how neural networks can match visual stimuli to patterns in the visual cortex. Once trained, the model can be shown only brain activity and then infer what a person might be seeing. These techniques also apply to imagined or dreamed content, opening a new frontier where the identifiable neural traces of internal experiences become available to AI.
“Brain decoding now extends to perception, imagery and even dreams.”
Prof. Pim Haselager, Radboud University Nijmegen
Wearable EEG technologies have advanced rapidly. These lighter, more accessible devices can detect intent-related signals, suggesting potential futures where people interact with technology without speaking, typing or tapping.
Writing the brain: how to influence neural activity
Pim shared an example where deep brain stimulation is used in clinical settings for treating Parkinson’s disease. An implanted electrode reduces tremors by stimulating targeted regions. During these treatments, researchers observed that some patients became happier while the stimulation was active. When the stimulation stopped, the mood change disappeared. This insight opened research into neurostimulation for severe depression, where subtle adjustments to frequency or intensity influence emotional responses.
Pim then introduced progress in non-invasive methods. Focused ultrasound devices and near-infrared helmets can influence deeper brain structures without surgery. Early research suggests potential effects on attention, creativity and sensory sensitivity. These approaches are reversible and more accessible, and they broaden the range of contexts in which neurostimulation might eventually be applied.
In early research settings, for example, neural signals from one person can already be decoded by an AI system and then used to stimulate another person’s brain. Small groups have completed simple tasks, such as a Tetris-like puzzle, by sharing neural information. Experiments also demonstrate how human brain signals can guide the behavior of animals through targeted stimulation. These studies remain experimental, yet they highlight how communication might evolve when neural data can be recorded, interpreted and transferred.
Neurotechnology as an emerging interface for experience
Neurotechnology is becoming more wearable, more discreet and more personal. EEG devices no longer resemble medical equipment. Developers are creating headsets and knitted electrodes that fit comfortably and blend into daily routines, similar to how headphones once moved from niche accessories to everyday objects.
As these devices grow more accessible, they may enable interactions that move beyond screens, keyboards and voice interfaces. Brain signals could complement other forms of behavioral data, helping systems recognize intent earlier or adapt experiences to cognitive patterns in real time.
“Wearable neurotechnology may become part of how people interact with digital systems.”
Jeroen Manten, Director Digital IT at PostNL
This points toward the long-discussed zero-interface future, where interactions become more implicit and systems respond to subtle cues rather than explicit commands. For marketing leaders, this introduces the potential for more intuitive and personalized experiences, provided that data is used with care and consent.
Neurorights: preparing for a new class of data
Pim concluded with a call for broader involvement in discussions about neurorights. Brain signals are among the most personal forms of data, and interpreting or influencing them raises important questions. If a system adjusts someone’s mood or interprets intent, who is responsible for the outcome? How should brain data be stored, protected and governed?
He expects regulatory frameworks similar to GDPR and the AI Act to expand toward neurotechnology. He encouraged organizations to help shape these discussions, especially as brain-connected devices become more accessible.
A developing frontier that deserves attention
Pim concluded his riveting talk by pointing out that “understanding neurotechnology today helps us anticipate how intelligence and cognition may interact in the future.”
Neurotechnology is rapidly evolving, and its connection to artificial intelligence offers a glimpse into the future of how people and intelligent systems will relate. For those designing experiences, communication or trust, it reveals new ways technology may interpret cognitive signals and support decision making.
The field is early, yet its trajectory is clear. Recognizing what is emerging today helps leaders prepare for interfaces that will feel far more intuitive tomorrow.
Interested learning more about neurotechnology? Pim suggests this paper from UNESCO on the neurotechnology landscape or this report on neurotechnology by the Rathenau Institute.
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