Is China Stealing Brain Data from Leclerc, Sinner and Other Athletes?
In recent times, a significant controversy has emerged surrounding allegations of espionage concerning the Chinese government. However, this situation does not revolve around well-known platforms like TikTok or DeepSeek. Instead, it involves BrainCo, the company behind the controversial device known as FocusCalm. This headset, which utilizes electroencephalogram (EEG) technology, has gained traction among elite athletes such as tennis player Jannik Sinner and Formula 1 racer Charles Leclerc. Unfortunately, an investigation has surfaced claiming that the device is being used to steal brain data from these athletes, presumably for various purposes, including military applications.
The accusations against BrainCo and its product FocusCalm originated from a joint publication by Hunterbrook Media and Pablo Torre Finds Out, which suggests that the startup, founded within the hallowed halls of Harvard University, allegedly receives direct funding from the Chinese government. Furthermore, there are claims that its devices are being utilized to collect and transmit users’ neural information for implementation in sports programs, military initiatives, or training models for artificial intelligence.
This situation has escalated sufficiently for BrainCo to issue a strong denial. A visit to the FocusCalm website reveals a prominent message addressing the controversy, asserting that the reports are "inaccurate and false." The company emphasizes that none of its products transmit raw biometric data to its servers.
According to the representatives of FocusCalm, the brain data is processed locally on the device and is automatically deleted after each session. They vehemently refute any connections to the military sector, either in China or elsewhere:
"The technology and products of our company are designed and intended exclusively for civil use. They are not used, developed, or supplied to the armed forces of any country. We do not collaborate in any way with the armed forces of any country. We do not share or provide our users' data to any government under any agreement."
BrainCo, addressing the allegations against FocusCalm
FocusCalm and the controversy over alleged brain data theft from elite athletes
FocusCalm is marketed as a headset that employs electroencephalogram technology, promising to deliver benefits related to well-being. By recording brain activity, the device is purported to assist in calming the mind and training it through various exercises, games, and meditation practices.
Since its introduction to the market, many have viewed this wearable technology with skepticism. Nevertheless, its usage has surged in the sports community. The report from Hunterbrook Media and Pablo Torre Finds Out cites Dr. Riccardo Ceccarelli from Formula Medicine, who allegedly has ties to the company with supposed connections to China, as a key figure in introducing this technology to athletes.
Dr. Ceccarelli mentioned that notable athletes such as Jannik Sinner, Charles Leclerc, Mikaela Shiffrin, and players from Manchester City are among the presumed users of FocusCalm. He also claimed that the brain data from these users is stored in the cloud, a statement that BrainCo has denied. However, the report argues that their privacy policy suggests otherwise, indicating that EEG records are indeed collected.
The alleged role of China in this affair
In a podcast accompanying the written report, a deeper dive into the alleged funding from the Chinese government to BrainCo is presented. The company reportedly denied to journalists that any information about users' brain activity is being used for military purposes. However, they did not provide comments regarding potential ties to the Chinese Communist Party or defense contractors.
The speculated uses for the allegedly stolen brain data are numerous and concerning:
- Studying how elite athletes from the US and other countries think, potentially giving Chinese researchers a competitive edge.
- Integrating the extracted data into artificial intelligence models.
- Developing humanoid robots that could benefit from insights gained from athlete data.
- Exploring brain-computer interfaces designed to enhance soldiers' memory and focus during training.
This controversy has reignited skepticism regarding the actual effectiveness of FocusCalm's offerings. Additionally, doubts persist about whether BrainCo possesses the technology necessary to process the vast amount of information they claim their devices can handle. Regardless of the outcome, this case demands careful scrutiny and continues to generate significant discussion. The company has indicated that they are considering taking legal action against these "malicious reports" circulating online.
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