Chinese brain interface startup Gestala raises $21M just two months after launch | TechCrunch

"Gestala has raised $21.6 million (CN¥150 million) just two months after launching, at a valuation of $100 million to $200 million, founder and CEO Phoenix Peng told TechCrunch. The round, co-led by Guosheng Capital and Dalton Venture with participation from Tsing Song Capital, Gobi Ventures, Fourier Intelligence, Liepin and Seas Capital, was heavily oversubscribed, with investor commitments totaling more than $58 million."

"Peng believes ultrasound could represent the next generation of brain-computer interface technology, offering the potential for broader, whole-brain access and new ways to interact with neural activity. The founder says non-invasive ultrasound could address one of the biggest barriers to BCI adoption: the risks associated with brain surgery."

"Compared with implanted electrode systems, the technology can monitor a larger portion of the brain, including deep neural circuits. Using phased-array ultrasound, the system can also precisely stimulate or suppress neural activity."

Gestala, founded by Phoenix Peng, is developing non-invasive ultrasound-based brain-computer interface technology as an alternative to implantable systems. The startup secured $21.6 million in funding just two months after launch at a $100-200 million valuation, with investor commitments exceeding $58 million. Gestala plans to expand its team from 15 to 35 employees and build a manufacturing facility in China. The company aims to complete its first-generation prototype by year-end. Ultrasound BCIs offer advantages over invasive electrode systems by providing broader brain access and eliminating surgical risks. This funding represents the largest early-stage investment in China's BCI industry, positioning Gestala as the first ultrasound BCI company in the country.

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