The biomedical landscape has undergone significant transformations in 2025, with a blend of cutting-edge technology and renewed interest in established methods. According to IEEE Spectrum, this year’s most impactful stories feature advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) alongside innovative applications of older technologies. From brain implants that detect mental health changes to the use of Wi-Fi for heart rate monitoring, the developments signal a promising future for healthcare.
Next-Gen Brain Implants Revolutionize Mental Health Monitoring
At the forefront of these innovations is research from Patricio Riva Posse at the Emory University School of Medicine, who has pioneered an “automatic alarm system” for mental health. This system employs brain implants to monitor electrical impulses in real time, utilizing AI to analyze data and identify early signs of depression. This groundbreaking approach could enable timely interventions, potentially transforming the treatment landscape for mental health disorders.
Colleagues from institutions such as Georgia Institute of Technology and Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai are exploring similar technologies, showcasing the potential of brain implants in enhancing mental health treatment options. Neurosurgeon Nir Lipsman notes that there are various avenues to explore in this field, indicating a collaborative effort to maximize the benefits of this technology.
Graphene Tattoos and Wi-Fi Innovations Enhance Health Monitoring
Another notable development comes from Dmitry Kireev and his team at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, who are creating ultra-thin graphene tattoos that function as biosensors. These electronic tattoos can monitor vital signs and track complex medical conditions, such as cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Kireev emphasizes that nearly half of U.S. adults might be unaware of early-stage disorders, underscoring the tattoos’ potential impact on preventative healthcare.
In a separate innovation, researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz have introduced a technology called Pulse-Fi. This system uses AI to analyze Wi-Fi signals, allowing for heart rate monitoring from a distance of up to 3 meters. With a cost of approximately $40, Pulse-Fi represents an affordable option for heart health monitoring without the need for constant contact, making it suitable for diverse environments and user postures.
Ultrasound and Laser Technologies Open New Treatment Avenues
Unlocking further potential in medical treatment, researchers Sangeeta S. Chavan and Stavros Zanos from the Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine are investigating the use of ultrasound waves to activate neurons. This technique could offer a non-invasive alternative to conventional medications for various conditions, including inflammation and diabetes. By vibrating neurons’ membranes, targeted ultrasound could facilitate healing with fewer side effects.
Meanwhile, a groundbreaking study conducted by the Extreme Light group at the University of Glasgow demonstrates the ability to shine lasers through the human head. This advancement could bridge the gap between affordable and in-depth imaging techniques. Project lead Jack Radford expressed optimism about the implications of this research, stating, “What was thought impossible, we’ve shown to be possible.”
Robotics in Surgery: The Future Is Here
As these technologies evolve, the realm of surgery is also on the brink of transformation. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have been developing the Smart Tissue Autonomous Robot (STAR), which successfully performed its first autonomous soft-tissue surgery in a live animal in 2016. While challenges remain, including the need for general-purpose robotic controllers and adherence to privacy regulations, the prospect of robotic assistance in operating rooms is becoming increasingly feasible. The authors of this research envision a future where patients might be greeted by both a surgeon and an autonomous robotic assistant.
As 2025 draws to a close, it is clear that the intersection of AI and traditional technologies is paving the way for significant improvements in healthcare. IEEE Spectrum plans to continue its comprehensive coverage of these innovations as the biomedical field progresses further into 2026. The advancements highlighted not only demonstrate human ingenuity but also hold the promise of improving health outcomes for many around the globe.
