Overview

Gestala is a Chinese noninvasive BCI startup developing phased-array focused ultrasound systems for therapeutic neuromodulation. Co-founded by Tianqiao Chen, the billionaire behind Shanda Interactive, and CEO Phoenix Peng, who previously founded NeuroXess, the company targets chronic pain as its lead indication with plans for six to eight total therapeutic programmes.

Technology

The company is developing phased-array ultrasound BCI systems that modulate deep brain structures with millimeter-level precision, without surgery or implants. This approach offers potential advantages over surface-level EEG-based systems while avoiding the risks of surgical implantation. The first-generation prototype is expected before the end of 2026.

Funding

In March 2026 Gestala closed a CN¥150 million ($21.6 million) round co-led by Guosheng Capital and Dalton Venture, with participation from Tsing Song Capital, Gobi Ventures, Fourier Intelligence, Liepin, and Seas Capital. The round was 2.5 times oversubscribed, with more than $58 million in commitments. The company is valued at an estimated $100–200 million.

Competitive Context

Gestala competes with US-based Merge Labs (backed by OpenAI with $252 million in funding), which also pursues ultrasound BCI. The combination of Chen’s capital network, Peng’s deep BCI experience, and China’s lower clinical trial costs (20–33% of US/European equivalents) positions Gestala for rapid advancement. The company has 15 employees and plans to reach 35 by the end of 2026.