Tag: innovation

Atlanta tests driverless pod transit loop

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If you have ever sat in traffic staring at brake lights and questioning your life choices, this story will hit home.

South Metro Atlanta is becoming the first place in the world to publicly test Glydways’ Automated Transit Network in live passenger service. The idea sounds simple. Put small electric vehicles on their own narrow guideways. Keep them out of mixed traffic. Use AI to coordinate everything. The promise? Rail level capacity at bus fare prices without decade-long construction headaches.

That is a bold claim. So let’s unpack it.

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Glydways’ automated transit network will begin live passenger testing in South Metro Atlanta in December 2026, marking the first public deployment of the driverless pod system. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

What is the Atlanta automated transit network pilot?

The pilot is a 0.5-mile dedicated guideway connecting the ATL SkyTrain at the Georgia International Convention Center to the Gateway Center Arena. It will launch as a free public test service in December 2026.

Instead of buses weaving through traffic or trains stopping at every platform, Glydways operates small electric passenger pods on a private lane. Riders request a trip through an app, and within minutes, a pod arrives. From there, passengers travel directly from point A to point B with no intermediate stops. That means no fighting SUVs, no getting stuck behind a delivery truck and no red lights.

Because the vehicles run on their own guideway, they maintain consistent speeds in tight formations. As a result, the company says the system can move up to 10,000 people per hour on a guideway just over six feet wide. If those numbers hold up in real-world testing, the system could carry as many people per hour as a light rail line.

Why South Metro Atlanta was chosen for the pilot

This location was not random. A 2019 feasibility study from the ATL Airport Community Improvement Districts identified the airport area as a 24-hour mobility district with serious first- and last-mile gaps. In plain terms, people can get close to where they need to go. They just cannot easily get that last leg of their trip. That affects workers, convention visitors and arena guests. It also affects underserved communities that struggle to connect to jobs and transit.

So the pilot serves as a controlled environment. Demand is predictable. Distances are short. Plus, stakeholders such as MARTA, Fulton County and Clayton County are already involved and on board. If it works here, expansion could follow.

How Atlanta’s driverless pod system differs from robotaxis

You may be thinking, “We already have autonomous vehicles.” True. Companies like Waymo run driverless cars on public roads. But Glydways argues that putting autonomous vehicles into existing traffic does not solve congestion. In some cases, it makes it worse. The key difference here is separation.

These pods do not mix with regular traffic. They run on purpose-built guideways with controlled access. That allows tighter spacing, predictable speeds and lower maintenance. In other words, it is more like a lightweight rail system without the heavy rail infrastructure.

Can the economics of the Atlanta transit pilot work?

Technology is not the hard part. Autonomous vehicles on dedicated lanes are fairly straightforward engineering. The real question is cost.

Traditional rail projects can run into the hundreds of millions or even billions of dollars. They often take years to build. Glydways claims its infrastructure deploys faster and cheaper, though specific Atlanta construction costs have not been disclosed.

Operational costs also stay lower because there are no drivers, vehicles are electric, and the guideway environment reduces wear and tear. The company says unsubsidized bus fare pricing is core to its model. While that sounds great on paper, the Atlanta pilot will show whether the math works in practice.

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Officials say the half-mile pilot could move up to 10,000 passengers per hour if real-world testing meets projections. (Getty)

Atlanta Transit pilot timeline and what happens next

Construction began in early 2026. Guideway installation, vehicle testing and system commissioning are underway. Passenger service is scheduled for December 2026.

By 2027, the goal is a fully operational South Metro pilot delivering real-world data and rider feedback. A feasibility study led by MARTA will then evaluate whether expansion across the broader Atlanta region makes sense.

If successful, future routes could connect airports, suburban corridors and high-traffic districts where rail is too expensive.

Why the Atlanta automated transit network matters beyond Georgia

Traffic congestion is not just an Atlanta problem. It is a global one. Glydways has signed agreements in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and has held discussions in Tokyo, Florida, California and New York. South Metro Atlanta is the global proving ground.

If this pilot demonstrates reliable performance, strong rider adoption and sustainable economics, other cities will take notice. If it fails, critics will point to it as another ambitious transit experiment that looked better in a PowerPoint deck than on the street.

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TRANSIT FUNDING HITS RECORD HIGHS AS RIDERSHIP LANGUISHES, NEW REPORT QUESTIONS RETURN ON BILLIONS

Small electric pods running on a dedicated guideway aim to bypass traffic and connect the ATL SkyTrain to Gateway Center Arena. (Getty)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Atlanta drivers know congestion is not going away on its own. Adding lanes rarely solves the problem. Traditional rail is expensive and slow to deploy. So cities are searching for net new capacity. Something that expands mobility without competing with what already exists. This pilot represents a serious attempt to rethink public transit from the ground up. It blends private lanes, electric vehicles and AI coordination into something that sits between bus and rail. Now the spotlight is on South Metro Atlanta. Will this be the beginning of a scalable new transit model or another well-intentioned experiment that struggles once real-world economics kick in?

If a driverless pod could pick you up on demand and bypass traffic entirely, would you trust it with your daily commute? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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February 23, 2026
China’s robotics giant puts 200 robots to the test

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A Chinese robotics company recently did something most tech firms would never dare attempt. Agibot put more than 200 robots on stage for a live one-hour televised event called Agibot Night.

The gala took place in Shanghai ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, which gave the production cultural weight as well as technical significance. According to the company, it was the world’s first large-scale live event fully led by humanoid robots.

Throughout the show, the machines danced, boxed and performed martial arts. They also walked the runway in synchronized fashion routines, while some executed Shaolin-style stances and others handled acrobatic sequences using props such as fire torches. Even the audience was made up entirely of robots, which reinforced the scale of the production.

At first glance, it felt like pure entertainment. However, the event functioned as a high pressure systems test playing out in public.

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WORLD’S FASTEST HUMANOID ROBOT RUNS 22 MPH

More than 200 humanoid robots perform during Agibot Night, a live televised gala in Shanghai ahead of Lunar New Year. (Tang Yanjun/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)

Why stage a robot gala?

At first glance, the event looked like a flashy product showcase. In reality, it functioned as a real-world stress test for Agibot humanoid robots. In controlled lab environments, engineers can pause a machine, adjust parameters and try again. Live television does not offer that luxury. A stumble, a delay or a synchronization error would have unfolded in front of a global audience.

By running complex choreography for an hour straight, Agibot tested balance, motor control, battery endurance and multi-robot coordination under pressure. Sustained dance routines, martial arts sequences and synchronized formations push hardware and software in ways short demos never do. Some segments even included card magic performed jointly with human magicians and floating illusion acts executed entirely by robots, adding another layer of complexity to the live show.

The company described the event as a milestone for embodied intelligence, moving from experimentation into social and cultural spaces. It also positioned the gala as proof of system-level reliability and a showcase of its broader product ecosystem. Strip away the marketing language, and the message is clear. These robots are no longer lab prototypes. They are entering large-scale production.

The robots behind the performance

Agibot’s G2 humanoid robots handled the bipedal routines. They executed synchronized dance sequences, high-speed spins and coordinated formations. These movements require precise joint control and real-time sensor feedback. The company’s D1 quadruped robots added dynamic stability to the lineup, showcasing agility and terrain adaptability.

The stage also featured Agibot’s broader humanoid portfolio, including the full-sized A2 Series built for multimodal interaction and navigation, and the compact X2 Series designed for natural conversation and expressive movement.

In some segments, human dancers performed alongside the robots. The timing and alignment happened live, demonstrating how closely robotic motion can mirror human movement. One of the most talked about moments came from Elf Xuan, an ultra-realistic humanoid developed by AheadForm. During a singing performance, its facial expressions appeared strikingly lifelike, showing how expressive robotics continues to evolve.

Even the comedic skits showed real progress. Several humanoids shared the stage, responded to each other and stayed on cue. When robots can handle timing and interaction like that, it signals that the underlying systems are becoming more stable and coordinated.

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Robots box, spin and handle fire torches as part of a large-scale systems test disguised as entertainment. (Tang Yanjun/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)

Agibot humanoid robots lead global shipments

Agibot is not a small player testing ideas on the sidelines. According to research firm Omdia, the company led global humanoid robot shipments in 2025. It delivered 5,168 units out of roughly 13,000 shipped worldwide that year. For a company founded in 2023 in Shanghai, that is a strong position in a fast-moving market.

Shipment totals show demand. However, a live event like Agibot Night shows confidence. When robots perform for an hour straight, there is nowhere to hide. Motors heat up. Sensors can drift. Software can glitch. When hundreds of machines move in sync, even small issues stand out immediately.

By putting its robots on display ahead of a major national holiday, Agibot reinforced the idea that its humanoid robots have moved beyond experimentation and into scaled production.

Several segments also placed AGIBOT robots alongside well-known consumer and lifestyle brands, signaling the company’s ambition to integrate humanoids into commercial and consumer-facing environments.

This was not the first time humanoid robots appeared in a major Chinese celebration. Unitree robots performed alongside human dancers at China Central Television’s Spring Festival Gala. Agibot’s event dramatically expanded that concept by scaling to more than 200 robots in a single coordinated production.

A shift in how robots are introduced

For years, humanoid robotics advanced behind closed doors. Progress showed up in research papers, factory trials and controlled demos. Agibot chose a different approach. Instead of presenting technical specifications at a trade show, it turned engineering validation into a live cultural event.

That strategy changes perception. When robots perform dance routines, hold martial arts stances or coordinate fashion walks in front of a broadcast audience, they feel less like prototypes and more like machines designed for real-world environments. This does not mean humanoid robots will suddenly appear in every shopping mall. However, it does show the industry is accelerating toward greater public visibility. The more often people see robots operate in shared spaces, the more normal that presence becomes.

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HUMANOID ROBOTS ARE GETTING SMALLER, SAFER AND CLOSER

Agibot’s G2 humanoid robots execute synchronized dance and martial arts routines during a one-hour broadcast. (Tang Yanjun/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Agibot Night put the technology on display in the most public way possible. More than 200 robots performed demanding routines for a full hour under broadcast conditions. That leaves little room for mistakes. Pair that performance with leading global shipment numbers, and the direction becomes clearer. Agibot is pushing hard to show its humanoid robots are ready for larger roles and wider deployment.

So here is the question. If robots can execute synchronized martial arts routines, handle props like fire torches and stay coordinated for a live televised gala, how long before seeing one at work, in a store or at a public event feels completely normal to you? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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February 20, 2026
Wearable robotics are changing how we walk and run

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When you hear the word robotics, you probably think of factory machines or humanoid robots sprinting across a test track. That image makes sense. For years, robotics lived in labs and industrial spaces.

But a quieter shift is happening much closer to home. It is happening around your ankles, knees and hips. Wearable robotics are moving out of research labs and into everyday life. From powered shoes to lightweight exoskeletons, this new wave of assisted movement technology is becoming a real consumer category.

The goal is not to replace your effort. It is to support it. And that shift is bigger than any single brand.

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AI WEARABLE HELPS STROKE SURVIVORS SPEAK AGAIN

Wearable robotics are moving from labs to everyday life, with powered shoes and exoskeletons designed to reduce fatigue and support natural movement. (Xiao Xiao/Xinhua via Getty Images)

From elite athletes to everyday use: the shift in wearable robotics

For years, sports innovation focused on speed. Lighter foam. Carbon plates. Better traction. Most of those gains targeted elite competitors. Now the focus is expanding beyond race day. Nike’s Project Amplify, developed with robotics partner Dephy, is one example. The system pairs a carbon plate inside the shoe with a motorized cuff worn above the ankle. Sensors track stride patterns in real time, and the cuff provides subtle forward assistance designed to feel smooth and natural. Instead of forcing movement, it learns it.

Earlier attempts at powered footwear struggled because batteries and motors were too heavy to sit inside a shoe. The result felt awkward and unbalanced. Modern designs solve that problem by moving energy storage above the ankle or to the hips. By shifting weight higher on the leg, engineers reduce strain on the foot and improve balance.

Battery improvements and smarter motion sensors also play a role. Today’s systems adapt to your stride in real time, making assisted movement feel less like equipment and more like an extension of your body. The company has said it is targeting a commercial release around 2028. But Nike is not alone in this space.

Powered footwear and exoskeletons are entering the consumer market

If you have ever felt your legs get heavy halfway through a long walk, you understand why this category exists. Maybe it is a trip through the airport, a walk around the neighborhood or a few flights of stairs that feel steeper than they used to. Most people are not trying to run faster. They just want to move without feeling worn out. That is where wearable robotics are starting to show up. Companies are building products meant for real people, not just elite athletes or lab testing.

Early consumer exoskeletons for outdoor movement

The Hypershell X is one example. It is a lightweight outdoor exoskeleton designed for hikers and long-distance walkers. The system wraps around the waist and legs and uses small motors to reduce fatigue on climbs and uneven terrain. The goal is straightforward. Help you go farther without feeling drained halfway through the trail. Hypershell also introduced the X Ultra, a more powerful version built for steeper terrain and longer outings. It delivers stronger assist levels while staying compact enough to wear under standard outdoor gear. Both models are designed for recreational users who want endurance support, not medical treatment.

Dnsys has also introduced the X1 all-terrain exoskeleton. The hip-mounted system is marketed to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who want help reducing fatigue on climbs and long treks. Unlike lab prototypes, the X1 has been sold through crowdfunding and direct online orders, making it one of the early consumer entries in this space.

Wearable robotics designed for everyday walking

Another example is WIM from WIRobotics. This wearable robot weighs about 3.5 pounds and supports natural hip movement while walking. It is meant for older adults, active adults and people recovering from minor injuries who want extra assistance without wearing something bulky or clinical looking.

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Medical exoskeleton makers such as Ekso Bionics and ReWalk paved the way for today’s consumer wearable robotics. (Wu Junyi/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)

From medical exoskeletons to consumer devices

The medical side of wearable robotics has been evolving even longer. Companies like Ekso Bionics and ReWalk have developed powered exoskeletons that help people with spinal cord injuries or stroke stand and walk. These systems are used in rehabilitation clinics and in select personal mobility programs. They show how wearable robotics first proved themselves in medical settings before gradually influencing consumer designs.

These products vary in power, price and purpose. What connects them is a shared direction. Wearable robotics are beginning to actively assist movement, not just track it.

How wearable robotics help reduce fatigue and movement hesitation

Here is something people rarely admit. It is not always an injury that stops movement. It is hesitation. Many people worry about knee pain creeping in halfway through a walk. Others fear running out of energy before they make it home. Some quietly stress about slowing everyone else down.

Those doubts shorten walks and cancel runs long before physical limits do. Wearable robotics hopes to close that confidence gap. By reducing fatigue and supporting joints, assisted movement systems can make activity feel realistic again for people who might otherwise skip it. Effort does not disappear. The barrier to starting simply becomes lower.

Powered footwear and wearable robotics support natural movement

A better comparison might be e-bikes. Electric assistance did not eliminate cycling. Instead, it expanded who felt comfortable getting on a bike in the first place. Powered footwear and wearable robotics could have a similar effect on walking and running. In practical terms, that might look different for different people.

Some commuters could replace short car trips. Older adults might stay active longer without feeling as worn out. Casual runners could finish a workout with energy to spare instead of dragging through the final mile. In other words, this shift is not about creating super athletes. It is about widening the circle of people who feel capable of participating.

What this means to you

You may never strap on a powered exoskeleton. You may not be waiting for motorized shoes to hit stores in 2028. But this shift still matters. If walking a long trail leaves your knees aching, or if you skip runs because you worry about burning out halfway through, this kind of technology is being built with you in mind. The goal is not to turn anyone into a super athlete. It is to make movement feel more doable.

For some people, that could mean walking an extra mile without thinking twice. For others, it might mean keeping up with friends, staying active longer or feeling a little less hesitant about getting started. Wearable robotics are changing the conversation. Instead of asking how fast you can go, the question becomes simpler. How comfortable do you want to feel while moving? And that is a very different way to think about fitness.

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NEW EXOSKELETON ADAPTS TO TERRAIN WITH SMART AI POWER

Consumer exoskeletons like Hypershell X and Dnsys X1 target hikers seeking endurance support on long treks. (Matthew J. Lee/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Wearable robotics systems are still in the early stages of consumer adoption. Most powered footwear and exoskeleton systems remain expensive and limited in availability. But the direction is clear. Technology is shifting from tracking your performance to actively supporting it. That is a meaningful change. If assisted movement becomes as common as smartwatches or fitness trackers, it could reshape how people think about aging, endurance and daily mobility. Walking farther may feel realistic again. Running may feel less intimidating. Staying active later in life could become more achievable for millions. The real question is not whether wearable robotics will improve. They will. The bigger question is how we choose to use them.

If wearable robotics can help you walk and run with less strain, would you try them, or would you rather rely only on your own effort? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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February 16, 2026
China unveils the world’s largest flying car

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China just sent a clear signal about where it believes air travel is headed next. A Shanghai-based aviation company called AutoFlight has unveiled Matrix, now recognized as the world’s largest flying car. This is not a concept image or a brief hover test. Matrix has already completed successful flight tests near Shanghai, bringing real size and real ambition to an industry still dominated by small prototypes.

The launch also highlights China’s push to dominate what it calls the low-altitude economy. That sector focuses on short-distance flights using electric aircraft to move people and cargo above busy roads.

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THE WORLD’S FIRST FLYING CAR IS READY FOR TAKEOFF

Matrix during flight testing near Shanghai, where the aircraft demonstrated real world performance at a scale rarely seen in flying car development. (AutoFlight)

Matrix becomes the world’s largest flying car

Matrix stands out immediately once you look at the specs. The aircraft weighs nearly 11,000 pounds. It measures about 56 feet long, stands roughly 11 feet tall and has a wingspan close to 66 feet. That makes it significantly larger than most flying cars currently under development. Most electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft today focus on compact designs. Many seat four to six passengers and prioritize lightweight frames. Matrix takes a different approach. Its scale allows it to operate more like a true aircraft rather than a personal air vehicle.

Matrix comes in two versions. One supports passenger travel. The other focuses on heavy cargo transport. The passenger model can carry up to 10 people, which is well above the current industry norm. That added capacity matters. It improves efficiency, lowers cost per passenger and makes commercial operations far more realistic.

Why battery technology drives flying car progress

Size alone does not make Matrix possible, power does. AutoFlight receives backing from CATL, the world’s largest electric vehicle battery manufacturer. CATL holds a significant stake in the company and supports battery research and development.

Battery performance affects nearly every part of electric flight. It shapes range, safety margins and payload capacity. Stronger batteries allow aircraft to fly farther while carrying more weight. In flying cars, that difference often separates experimental designs from aircraft ready for real-world service.

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The size of Matrix sets it apart, with a wide wingspan and passenger capacity that pushes electric air travel beyond small prototype designs. (AutoFlight)

China builds rules for the low-altitude economy

Matrix did not appear by accident. China is actively building a regulatory framework for the low-altitude economy. That includes standards for aircraft design, safety systems, air traffic control and supporting infrastructure. Officials plan to introduce baseline rules by 2027, with more than 300 detailed standards expected by 2030. These rules are meant to prepare cities for flying cars, cargo aircraft and air taxi services. While many countries still debate how electric air travel should work, China is already laying the foundation.

Cargo flights paved the way for passenger approval

Before shifting focus to passengers, AutoFlight proved itself with cargo. Its earlier aircraft, CarryAll, received full certification in China for design, production and airworthiness. It also completed a real-world cargo flight between two cities, covering about 100 miles in roughly one hour. That flight demonstrated practical use beyond test environments. It also helped build trust with regulators, which plays a critical role in approving passenger aircraft. Today, passenger travel has become the company’s main focus. About 70 percent of AutoFlight’s total orders involve passenger aircraft. Certification is still underway, but company leaders expect approval within one to two years. Orders are already being accepted for future delivery.

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Flying cars like Matrix point to a future where short distance air travel could ease congestion and reshape how cities move people and cargo. (AutoFlight)

How Matrix compares to smaller flying cars like Pivotal

Matrix represents one side of the flying car future. Smaller aircraft such as the Pivotal flying car, which we have covered previously, focus on personal flight and short-range travel. These designs emphasize simplicity, individual control and compact size. Matrix takes the opposite approach. It focuses on shared passenger travel and heavy cargo transport at scale. Together, these models show how the flying car market is splitting into two paths. One is personal air mobility. The other is commercial electric aviation. Both paths matter, but they solve very different transportation problems.

When passenger flying car flights could begin in China

Industry experts see 2026 as a pivotal year for flying cars in China. Several companies plan to begin deliveries, and China could see its first paid passenger flying car flights. New infrastructure, such as landing pads and charging stations, will support this growth. AutoFlight is also looking beyond China. Demand is strong in regions with limited transportation networks. Island nations, mountainous areas and remote regions stand out. The company sees Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East as key markets.

What this means for you

Flying cars still feel futuristic, but they are moving closer to everyday use. Early flights will likely focus on specific routes, cargo delivery, emergency services and premium passenger travel. Over time, costs could fall to levels similar to high-end ride services on the ground. Even if you never board one soon, this technology will shape logistics, emergency response and how cities plan transportation. It also shows how quickly electric aviation can advance when regulation, manufacturing and demand align.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Matrix is more than a big flying machine. It shows how fast flying car ideas are turning into aircraft that can actually be certified and used. China is moving from concepts to real operations step by step. Widespread use will take time, but the trend is clear. Electric flight is becoming practical, scalable and much harder to ignore.

What would need to happen for you to feel comfortable riding in a flying car, and would you try it if one launched in your city? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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February 14, 2026
World’s fastest humanoid robot runs 22 MPH

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A full-size humanoid robot just ran faster than most people will ever sprint.

Chinese robotics firm MirrorMe Technology has unveiled Bolt, a humanoid robot that reached a top speed of 22 miles per hour during real-world testing. This was not CGI or a computer simulation. The footage, shared by the company on X, shows a real humanoid robot running at full speed inside a controlled testing facility.

That milestone makes Bolt the fastest running humanoid robot of its size ever demonstrated outside computer simulations. For robotics, this is a line-crossing moment.

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WARM-SKINNED AI ROBOT WITH CAMERA EYES IS SERIOUSLY CREEPY

MirrorMe Technology’s humanoid robot Bolt reaches 22 mph during a real-world sprint test inside a controlled facility. (Zhang Xiangyi/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)

What allows the world’s fastest humanoid robot to run at 22 mph

In the promotional video, the run is shown using a split-screen view. On one side of the screen, Wang Hongtao, the founder of MirrorMe Technology, runs on a treadmill. On the other side, Bolt runs under the same conditions. The comparison makes the difference clear. As the pace increases, Wang struggles to keep up and eventually gives up, while Bolt continues running smoothly, maintaining balance as its stride rate increases.

Bolt takes shorter strides than a human runner but makes up for it with a much faster stride rhythm. That faster rhythm helps the robot stay stable as it accelerates. Engineers say this performance reflects major progress in humanoid locomotion control, dynamic balance and high-performance drive systems. Speed is impressive. Speed with control is the real achievement.

The humanoid robot design choices behind Bolt’s speed

Bolt stands about 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighs roughly 165 pounds, putting it close to the size and mass of an average adult human. MirrorMe says that similarity is intentional. The company describes this as the ideal humanoid form.

Rather than oversized limbs or exaggerated mechanics, Bolt relies on newly designed joints paired with a fully optimized power system. The goal is to replicate natural human motion while staying stable at extreme speeds. That combination is what sets Bolt apart.

HUMANOID ROBOTS ARE GETTING SMALLER, SAFER AND CLOSER

MirrorMe says Bolt’s 22 mph run highlights stability and control, not just raw speed. ( Cui Jun/Beijing Youth Daily/VCG via Getty Images)

Why Bolt’s sprint reflects years of robotics development

Bolt did not appear overnight. MirrorMe has focused on robotic speed as a long-term priority since 2016. Last year, its Black Panther II robot stunned viewers by sprinting 328 feet in 13.17 seconds during a live television broadcast in China. Reports suggested the performance exceeded comparable tests involving Boston Dynamics machines.

In 2025, the company also set a record with a four-legged robot that surpassed 22 mph, reinforcing its focus on acceleration, agility and sustained high-speed motion. China’s interest in robotic athletics continues to grow. Beijing even hosted the first World Humanoid Robot Games, where humanoid robots competed in sprint races on a track.

Why MirrorMe says speed is not the end goal

Running at 22 mph grabs attention, but MirrorMe says speed alone is not the point. The engineers behind Bolt care more about what happens at that speed. Balance, reaction time and control matter more than a headline number. Those skills are what let a humanoid robot move like a trained runner instead of a machine on the verge of tipping over.

That is where the athlete angle comes in. MirrorMe envisions Bolt as a training partner that can run alongside elite athletes, hold a steady pace and push limits without getting tired. By matching and slightly exceeding human performance, the robot could help runners fine-tune form, pacing and endurance while collecting precise motion data. In that context, the sprint is not a stunt. It shows how humanoid robots could move beyond demos and into real training and performance settings.

What this means to you

Humanoid robots that can run at highway speeds are no longer something you only see in demos or concept videos. As these machines get faster and more stable, they start to fit into real-world roles. That includes athletic training, emergency response and physically demanding jobs where speed and endurance make a real difference. At the same time, faster robots bring real concerns. Safety, oversight and clear rules matter even more when machines can move this quickly around people. When robots run this fast, the limits need to be clear.

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HUMANOID ROBOT MAKES ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY BY DESIGNING A BUILDING

Engineers say Bolt’s high-speed sprint reflects advances in locomotion control, balance and drive systems. (Photo by Kevin Frayer/Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Bolt running at 22 mph is eye-catching, but the speed is not the main takeaway. What matters is what it shows. Robots are starting to move more like people. They can run, adjust and stay upright at speeds that used to knock machines over. That opens the door to real uses, but it also raises real questions. How fast is too fast around people? Who sets the rules? And who is responsible when something goes wrong? The technology is moving quickly. The conversation around it needs to move just as fast.

If humanoid robots can soon outrun and outtrain humans, where should limits be set on how and where they are allowed to operate? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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February 13, 2026
Flying car now on sale for $190,000

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A future with flying cars no longer lives just in concept videos. It now lives in Palo Alto, and if you have about $200,000 plus patience, you can reserve one today. The company behind that future vehicle is Pivotal, a California company that has quietly spent more than a decade turning a radical idea into a real aircraft. Its latest creation, called Helix, is now open for reservations, and delivery could be less than a year away. Yes, this is an actual flying car you can buy.

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How Pivotal turned a secret flying car into a real product

THE WORLD’S FIRST FLYING CAR IS READY FOR TAKEOFF

The Helix flying car cruises at about 62 mph and operates in unregulated airspace under FAA Part 103 rules. (Pivotal)

Pivotal’s story started in 2009, when founder Marcus Leng began developing an electric aircraft that could take off vertically without gasoline. In 2011, Leng became the first person to fly the real thing. He called it BlackFly and worked on it quietly for years. By 2014, the company relocated to the Bay Area. In 2018, it finally stepped out of stealth and revealed BlackFly to the public. That second-generation design became the foundation for Helix, the aircraft Pivotal now offers for sale. Leadership shifted in 2022 when Ken Karklin took over as CEO. Under his watch, the company moved from experimental flights to customer reservations and structured training.

What the Pivotal Helix flying car actually is

Helix is a single-seat, electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, often called an eVTOL. Unlike helicopters, it has fixed wings, while traditional airplanes need a runway to get airborne. Instead, Helix takes off and lands vertically and runs entirely on electricity. As a result, it falls under the FAA’s Part 103 ultralight category, the same regulatory class as a hang glider. That distinction matters because it means you do not need a pilot’s license to fly it.

At about 355 pounds empty, Helix is designed to fly below 200 feet in unregulated airspace. It cruises at roughly 62 mph and offers around 30 minutes of flight time per charge. Meanwhile, charging takes about 75 minutes using a 240-volt outlet.

How much the Helix flying car costs to own

Helix starts at $190,000. Buyers can also add a transport trailer for $21,000 and a charger for $1,100. To reserve one, customers place a $50,000 deposit. According to Karklin, buyers who reserve today could receive their aircraft in nine to 12 months. Pivotal says it has already received more than a year’s worth of reservations.

Pivotal says it does not publicly share exact sales figures, but the company says interest remains strong. “While Pivotal doesn’t share specific order numbers, we have a healthy backlog of orders, and customers who place a deposit today can expect delivery within 9-12 months.”

How long it takes to learn to fly the Helix

Training takes place at Pivotal’s Palo Alto headquarters and at the Monterey Bay Academy Airport. The process includes passing the FAA knowledge test, completing ground school and learning how to control, maintain, transport and assemble the aircraft. Most customers complete training in under two weeks. More than 50 people have already been trained to fly Pivotal aircraft. Some are customers. Others are employees.

Why Pivotal says the Helix flying car is built for safety

Helix was designed with simplicity in mind. It has only 18 moving parts and relies heavily on redundancy to prevent system failures. The aircraft has been independently evaluated by the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association. Pivotal’s quality management system is also certified by SAE International, which sets global aviation safety standards. Noise is another concern people often raise. During takeoff and landing, Helix sounds roughly like a couple of leaf blowers. Once airborne, people on the ground may not hear it at all.

Pivotal says years of real-world flight data across its fleet continue to shape how the aircraft performs. “Across our fleet, and including privately owned BlackFly aircraft, Pivotal eVTOLs have completed over 9000 flights to date — of those 2500+ have had a pilot onboard.” That history, the company says, comes without safety incidents. “We have a flawless flight record and a flawless safety record.” The company also points to what it has learned from connected aircraft systems. “We learn so much from these cloud-connected aircraft.” According to Pivotal, that data has had a direct impact on the Helix design. “Most importantly, we have been able to enhance the experience, make flying simpler, safer and more enjoyable as we move into production.”

Who is already flying Pivotal’s flying cars today

A small group of early-access customers already owns and flies BlackFly aircraft, the predecessor to Helix. One of them is Tim Lum, a Washington state resident who bought his aircraft in 2023. Since then, Lum has completed about 1,200 flights in more than 100 locations across the U.S.

Despite not being an FAA-certified pilot, he regularly takes off and lands on private land with permission and uses small private airports. In addition, Lum tows the aircraft coast to coast and shares it with trained family members and friends. For him, flying is deeply personal. According to Lum, being in the air helps clear his mind and opens doors in ways money cannot.

To understand what it feels like to fly Helix for the first time, we asked Pivotal what new pilots say after their initial flights.

“First-time pilots – especially those without any aviation background – often talk about the unforgettable joy of their initial flight,” a Pivotal spokesperson told CyberGuy. “The huge smiles on every face say it all.” They say that excitement comes from more than simply being airborne. “They describe the thrill of being up in the air, feeling truly one with the aircraft, and seeing the world from an entirely new perspective.” The company says many first-time pilots are also surprised by how the aircraft feels in flight. “Many are surprised by how freeing it feels to fly, particularly because sitting at the center of gravity creates a sensation unlike traditional airplanes – more balanced, more immersive and incredibly intuitive.”

Not everyone is sold on flying cars

As with any new aircraft technology, concerns remain. Aviation groups have raised questions about crowded airspace and how communities will respond as more vehicles take to the sky. Pivotal says it approaches this differently than air taxi companies. While others focus on urban shuttles, Helix is built for single-person recreation, short-hop travel and specialized missions.

NEW PERSONAL EVTOL PROMISES PERSONAL FLIGHT UNDER $40K

Noise and airspace concerns often come up when people hear about personal eVTOL aircraft. Pivotal says those concerns are central to how it designs and operates its vehicles. “At Pivotal, we design light eVTOL aircraft for the real world – where people live, work and play- and that includes addressing community and regulatory concerns around airspace use and noise.” The company says trust matters as much as technology. “Earning public trust is essential to making electric aviation part of everyday life, and noise is a key factor.”

Helix breaks down for transport and fits into a trailer, allowing owners to tow it and fly in different locations across the country. (Pivotal)

Pivotal says direct engagement helps address those concerns. “We engage directly with communities through events and demonstrations across the country, giving stakeholders the opportunity to experience the aircraft firsthand.” The company also points to independent testing. “Our aircraft are quiet by design. Independent NASA testing shows the Pivotal BlackFly produces approximately 70 dBA of flyover noise at 100 feet, a level aligned with how sound is perceived by the human ear.”

Federal rules also limit where ultralight aircraft can operate. “Under FAA Part 103 regulations, ultralight aircraft are allowed to operate in uncontrolled airspace, including public and private land – close to 90% of the country.” Still, Pivotal notes that there are clear boundaries. “However, ultralight aircraft are not permitted to fly over congested areas, further reducing any concerns around noise.”

How Pivotal plans to use Helix beyond personal flying

Pivotal plans to operate across three business segments: personal ownership, public safety and defense. In 2023, the company leased eight aircraft to an innovation arm of the U.S. Air Force and defense technology firm MTSI. That testing helped inform the latest version of Helix. Karklin believes recreational flying and short-distance travel should not be dismissed. He argues that those use cases may drive adoption faster than large urban systems.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Flying cars still sound wild when you say it out loud, yet Helix shows this idea has moved well past hype and headlines. This is a real aircraft, flown by real people, with real rules and real limitations. For most people, Helix will remain something to watch rather than buy. The price alone puts it out of reach. Even so, its existence matters. It shows that personal flight no longer belongs only to licensed pilots, airfields and aviation clubs. Pivotal took a slow and deliberate path to get here. That patience may be why Helix feels less like a stunt and more like a glimpse of what comes next. Just as electric cars reshaped expectations before becoming mainstream, personal eVTOL aircraft are starting at the top and working their way down. The question now is not whether flying cars are possible. It is how comfortable we become sharing the sky when they are no longer rare.

Designed for recreation and short-hop travel, Helix offers a new way to experience flight without a pilot’s license. (Pivotal)

Would you trust yourself in a single-seat flying car, or does the sky still feel like a line we should not cross? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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February 8, 2026
AI wearable helps stroke survivors speak again
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Losing the ability to speak clearly after a stroke can feel devastating. For many survivors, the words are still there in their minds, but their bodies will not cooperate. Speech becomes slow, unclear or fragmented. This condition, known as dysarthria, affects nearly half of all stroke survivors and can make everyday communication exhausting. Now, researchers believe they may have found a better way forward. Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a wearable device called Revoice. It is designed to help people with post-stroke speech impairment communicate naturally again without surgery or brain implants.

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FULLY IMPLANTABLE BRAIN CHIP AIMS TO RESTORE REAL SPEECH

A soft, flexible choker like this houses Revoice’s sensors, which read subtle throat vibrations to help reconstruct speech in real time. (University of Cambridge)

Why dysarthria makes recovery so hard

Dysarthria is a physical speech disorder. A stroke can weaken the muscles in the face, mouth and vocal cords. As a result, speech may sound slurred, slow or incomplete. Many people can only say a few words at a time, even though they know exactly what they want to say. According to professor Luigi Occhipinti, that disconnect creates deep frustration. Stroke survivors often work with speech therapists using repetitive drills. These exercises help over time, but open-ended conversation remains difficult. Recovery can take months or even longer, which leaves patients struggling during daily interactions with family, caregivers and doctors.

How the Revoice device works

Revoice takes a very different approach. Instead of asking users to type, track their eyes or rely on implants, the device reads subtle physical signals from the throat and neck. It looks like a soft, flexible choker made from breathable, washable fabric. Inside are ultra-sensitive textile strain sensors and a small wireless circuit board. When a user silently mouths words, the sensors detect tiny vibrations in the throat muscles. At the same time, the device measures pulse signals in the neck to estimate emotional state.

Those signals are processed by two artificial intelligence (AI) agents:
- One reconstructs words from mouthed speech
- The other interprets emotion and context to build complete sentences
Together, they allow Revoice to turn a few mouthed words into fluent speech in real time.

ELON MUSK SHARES PLAN TO MASS-PRODUCE BRAIN IMPLANTS FOR PARALYSIS, NEUROLOGICAL DISEASE

This diagram shows how Revoice combines throat muscle signals and pulse data with AI to turn silently mouthed words into full, expressive sentences in real time. (University of Cambridge)

Why this AI approach is different

Earlier silent speech systems had serious limits. Many were tested only on healthy volunteers. Others forced users to pause for several seconds between words, which made the conversation feel unnatural. Revoice avoids those delays. It uses an AI-driven throat sensor system paired with a lightweight language model. Because the model runs efficiently, it uses very little power and delivers near-instant responses. The device is powered by a 1,800 mWh battery, which researchers expect will last a full day on a single charge.

What early trials revealed

After refining the system with healthy participants, researchers tested Revoice with five stroke patients who had dysarthria.

The results were striking:
- Word error rate: 4.2%
- Sentence error rate: 2.9%
In one example, a patient mouthed the phrase “We go hospital.” Revoice expanded it into a complete sentence that reflected urgency and frustration, based on emotional signals and context. Participants reported a 55% increase in satisfaction and said the device helped them communicate as fluently as they did before their stroke.

PARALYZED MAN WALKS AGAIN AFTER EXPERIMENTAL DRUG TRIAL TRIGGERS REMARKABLE RECOVERY

This figure breaks down the Revoice hardware and AI pipeline, showing how strain sensors, wireless electronics, and emotion decoding work together to reconstruct natural speech. (University of Cambridge)

Beyond stroke recovery

Researchers believe Revoice could also help people with Parkinson’s disease and motor neuron disease. Because the device is comfortable, washable, and designed for daily wear, it could fit into real-world routines rather than being confined to clinics. Before that can happen, larger clinical trials are required. The research team plans to begin broader studies with native English-speaking patients and hopes to expand the system to support multiple languages and a wider range of emotional expressions. The findings were published in the journal Nature Communications.

What this means for you

If you or someone you care for has experienced a stroke, this research points to a major shift in recovery tools. Revoice suggests that speech assistance does not need to be invasive to be effective. A wearable solution could support communication during the most difficult months of rehabilitation, when confidence and independence often suffer the most. It may also reduce stress for caregivers who struggle to understand incomplete or unclear speech. Clear communication can improve medical care, emotional well-being and daily decision-making.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Communication is tied closely to dignity and independence. For stroke survivors, losing that ability can be one of the hardest parts of recovery. Revoice shows how artificial intelligence and wearable tech can work together to restore something deeply human. While it is still early, this device represents a meaningful step toward making recovery feel less isolating and more hopeful.

If a simple wearable could help restore natural speech, should it become a standard part of stroke rehabilitation? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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February 1, 2026
Humanoid robot makes architectural history by designing a building

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What happens when artificial intelligence (AI) moves from painting portraits to designing homes? That question is no longer theoretical.

At the Utzon Center in Denmark, Ai-Da Robot, the world’s first ultra-realistic robot artist, has made history as the first humanoid robot to design a building.

The project, called Ai-Da: Space Pod, is a modular housing concept created for future bases on the Moon and Mars. CyberGuy has covered Ai-Da before, when her work focused on drawing, painting and performance art. That earlier coverage showed how a robot could create original artwork in real time and why it sparked global debate.

Now, the shift is clear. Ai-Da is moving beyond art and into physical spaces designed for humans and robots to live in.

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3D-PRINTED HOUSING PROJECT FOR STUDENT APARTMENTS TAKES SHAPE

Ai-Da Robot is the humanoid artist that made architectural history by becoming the first robot to design a building. (FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images)

Inside the ‘I’m not a robot’ exhibition

The exhibition “I’m not a robot” has just opened at Utzon Center and runs through October. It explores the creative capacity of machines at a time when robots are increasingly able to think and create for themselves. Visitors can experience Ai-Da’s drawings, paintings and architectural concepts. Throughout the exhibition period, visitors can also follow Ai-Da’s creative process through sketches, paintings and a video interview.

ELON MUSK TEASES A FUTURE RUN BY ROBOTS

How Ai-Da creates art and architecture

Ai-Da is not a digital avatar or animation. She has camera eyes, specially developed AI algorithms and a robotic arm that allows her to draw and paint in real time. Developed in Oxford and built in Cornwall in 2019, Ai-Da works across disciplines. She is a painter, sculptor, poet, performer and now an architectural designer whose work is meant to provoke reflection.

“Ai-Da presents a concept for a shared residential area called Ai-Da: Space Pod, a foreshadowing of a future where AI becomes an integrated part of architecture,” explains Aidan Meller, creator of Ai-Da and Director of Ai-Da Robot. “With intelligent systems, a building will be able to sense and respond to its occupants, adjusting light, temperature and digital interfaces according to needs and moods.”

A building designed for humans and robots

The Space Pod is intentionally modular. Each unit can connect to others through corridors, creating a shared residential environment.

Through a series of paintings, she envisions a home and studio for humans or robots alike. According to the Ai-Da Robot team, these designs could evolve into fully realized architectural models through 3D renderings and construction. They could also adapt to planned Moon or Mars base camps.

Aidan Meller presents Ai-Da robot, the first AI-powered robot artist during the UN Global Summit on AI for Good, where they are giving the keynote speech, on July 7, 2023, in Geneva, Switzerland. (Johannes Simon/Getty Images for Aidan Meller)

While the concept targets future bases on the Moon and Mars, the design can also be built as a prototype on Earth. That detail matters as space agencies prepare for longer missions beyond our planet.

“With our first crewed Moon landing in 50 years coming in 2027, Ai-Da: Space Pod is a simple unit connected to other Pods via corridors,” Meller said. “Ai-Da is a humanoid designing homes. This raises questions about where architecture may go when powerful AI systems gain greater agency.” The timing also aligns with renewed lunar exploration tied to NASA missions.

AUSTRALIAN CONSTRUCTION ROBOT CHARLOTTE CAN 3D PRINT 2,150-SQ-FT HOME IN ONE DAY USING SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

Why this exhibition is meant to challenge you

According to Meller, the exhibition is meant to feel uncomfortable at times. “Technology is developing at an extraordinary pace in these years,“ he said, pointing to emotional recognition through biometric data, CRISPR gene editing and brain computer interfaces. Each carries promise and ethical risk. He references Brave New World and warnings from Yuval Harari about how powerful technologies may be used.

In that context, Ai-Da becomes a mirror of our time. “Ai-Da is confrontational. The very fact that she exists is confrontational,” said Line Nørskov Davenport, Director of Exhibitions at Utzon Center. “She is an AI shaker, a conversation starter.”

Aidan Meller, British Gallery owner and specialist in modern and contemporary art, stands beside the AI robot artist “Ai-Da” at the Great Pyramids of Giza, where she exhibits her sculpture during an international art show, on the outskirt of Cairo, Egypt, Oct. 23, 2021. (REUTERS/Mohamed Abd El Ghany)

What this means for you

This story goes beyond robots and space travel. Ai-Da’s Space Pod shows how quickly AI is moving from a creative tool to a decision-maker. Architecture, housing and shared spaces shape daily life. When AI enters those fields, questions about control, ethics and accountability become unavoidable. If a robot can design homes for the Moon, it may soon influence how buildings function here on Earth.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

A humanoid robot designing a building once sounded impossible. Today, Ai-Da’s work sits inside a major cultural institution and sparks real debate. She offers no easy answers. Instead, she pushes us to think more critically about creativity, technology and responsibility. As the line between human and machine continues to blur, those questions matter more than ever.

If AI can design the homes of our future, how much creative control should humans be willing to give up? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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January 29, 2026
Tiny autonomous robots can now swim on their own

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For decades, microscopic robots lived mostly in our imagination. Movies like “Fantastic Voyage” convinced us that tiny machines would one day cruise through the human body, fixing problems from the inside. In reality, that future stayed frustratingly out of reach.

The reason was not a lack of ambition. It was physics.

Now, a breakthrough from researchers at the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Michigan has changed the equation. The teams have built the smallest fully programmable autonomous robots ever created, and they can swim.

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A new way to swim without moving parts

Seen on a fingertip, this tiny swimming robot is smaller than a grain of salt yet fully autonomous. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

ROBOTS LEARN 1,000 TASKS IN ONE DAY FROM A SINGLE DEMO

The robots measure about 200 by 300 by 50 micrometers. That is smaller than a grain of salt and close to the size of a single-celled organism. They do not have legs or propellers. Instead, they use electrokinetics. Each robot generates a small electrical field that pulls charged ions in the surrounding fluid. Those ions drag water molecules with them, effectively creating a flowing river around the robot. The result is motion without moving parts. That makes the robots extremely durable and surprisingly easy to handle, even with delicate lab tools.

A brain powered by almost nothing

Each robot runs on tiny solar cells that generate just 75 nanowatts of power. That is more than 100,000 times less than a smartwatch. To make this work, engineers redesigned everything. They built ultra-low voltage circuits and created a custom instruction set that compresses complex behavior into just a few hundred bits of memory. Despite the limits, each robot can sense its environment, store data and decide how to move next.

How these robots communicate with a dance

The robots cannot carry antennas, so the team borrowed a trick from nature. Each robot performs a tiny wiggle pattern to report information like temperature. The motion follows a precise encoding scheme that researchers can decode by watching through a microscope. The idea closely mirrors how bees communicate through movement. Programming works the other way. Researchers flash light signals that the robots read as instructions. A built-in passcode prevents random light from interfering with their memory.

What these tiny robots can do today

In current tests, the robots demonstrate thermotaxis. They sense heat and autonomously swim toward warmer areas. That behavior hints at future uses like tracking inflammation, locating disease markers or delivering drugs with extreme precision. Light can already power robots near the skin. For deeper environments, the researchers are exploring ultrasound as a future energy source.

PRIVATE AUTONOMOUS PODS COULD REDEFINE RIDE-SHARING

Tiny robots move by creating electric fields that pull surrounding fluid, allowing them to swim without propellers or moving parts. (iStock)

Cheap enough to use by the thousands

Because these robots are made with standard semiconductor manufacturing, they can be produced in large numbers. More than 100 robots fit on a single chip, and manufacturing yields already exceed 50%. In mass production, the estimated cost could drop below one cent per robot. At that price, disposable robot swarms become realistic rather than theoretical.

What this means to you

This technology is not about flashy gadgets. It is about scale. Robots this small could one day monitor health at the cellular level, build materials from the bottom up or explore environments too delicate for larger machines. While medical use is still years away, this breakthrough shows that true autonomy at the microscale is finally possible.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

For nearly 50 years, microscopic robots felt like a promise science could never quite keep. This research, published in Science Robotics, changes that narrative. By embracing the strange physics of the microscale instead of fighting it, engineers unlocked an entirely new class of machines. This is only the first chapter, but it is a big one. Once sensing, movement and decision-making fit into something almost invisible, the future of robotics looks very different.

If tiny robots could swim through your body one day, would you trust them to monitor your health or deliver treatment? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

Light-based commands trigger precise movements as microscopic robots receive instructions, change direction and move independently. (iStock)

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January 28, 2026
Smart pill confirms when medication is swallowed
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Remembering to take medication sounds simple. However, missed doses put people at serious health risk every day. Because of that, engineers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have designed a pill that confirms when someone swallows it. As a result, doctors could track treatment more accurately, and patients could stay on schedule more easily. At the same time, the pill safely breaks down inside the body, which helps reduce long-term risk.

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FDA CLEARS FIRST AT-HOME BRAIN DEVICE FOR DEPRESSION

MIT engineers have designed a pill that can report when it has been swallowed. (Mehmet Say)

How the MIT smart pill works

The new system fits inside existing pill capsules. It uses a tiny, biodegradable radio-frequency antenna made from zinc and cellulose. These materials already have strong safety records in medicine. Here is what happens step by step:
- You swallow the capsule as usual
- The outer coating dissolves in the stomach
- The pill releases both the medication and the antenna
- The antenna sends a radio signal confirming ingestion
This entire process happens within about 10 minutes. An external receiver, potentially built into a wearable device, detects the signal from up to two feet away.

Designed to break down safely

Previous smart pill designs relied on components that stayed intact as they passed through the digestive system. That raised concerns about long-term safety. The MIT team took a different approach. Nearly all parts of the antenna break down in the stomach within days. Only a tiny off-the-shelf RF chip remains, and it passes naturally through the body. According to lead researcher Mehmet Girayhan Say, the goal is clear. The system avoids long-term buildup while still reliably confirming that a pill was taken.

Who could benefit most from this technology?

This smart pill is not meant for every prescription. Instead, it targets situations where missing medication can be dangerous. Potential beneficiaries include:
- Organ transplant patients taking immunosuppressants
- People with chronic infections like TB or HIV
- Patients with recent stent procedures
- Individuals with neuropsychiatric conditions
For these patients, adherence can mean the difference between recovery and serious complications.

BREAKTHROUGH DEVICE PROMISES TO DETECT GLUCOSE WITHOUT NEEDLES

The MIT capsule uses layered materials, including gelatin, cellulose, and metals like molybdenum or tungsten, to prevent any RF signal from transmitting outside the body. (iStock)

What researchers say about the breakthrough pill

Senior author Giovanni Traverso emphasizes that the focus is on patient health. The aim is to support people, not police them. The research team published its findings in Nature Communications and plans further preclinical testing. Human trials are expected next as the technology moves closer to real-world use. This research received funding from Novo Nordisk, MIT Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham and Women’s Hospital Division of Gastroenterology and the U.S. Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health.

Why medication adherence remains a major problem

Patients failing to take medicine as prescribed contribute to hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths each year. It also adds billions of dollars to health care costs. This problem hits hardest when patients must take treatment consistently over long periods. That includes people who have received organ transplants, patients with tuberculosis and those managing complex neurological conditions. For these groups, missing doses can have life-altering consequences.

10 HEALTH TECH PRODUCTS STEALING THE SPOTLIGHT AT CES 2026

Once safely inside the stomach, the pill can activate and communicate internally, reducing privacy risks while enabling more accurate medical tracking. (iStock)

What this means for you

If you or a loved one relies on critical medication, this kind of technology could add an extra layer of safety. It may reduce guesswork for doctors and ease pressure on patients who manage complex treatment plans. At the same time, it raises important questions about privacy, consent and how medical data is shared. Any future rollout will need strong safeguards to protect patients.

For now, until this technology becomes available, you can still stay on track by using the built-in tools on your phone. We break down the best ways to track your meds on iPhone and Android in our step-by-step guide.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

A pill that confirms it was swallowed may sound futuristic, but it addresses a very real problem. By combining simple materials with smart engineering, MIT researchers created a tool that could save lives without lingering in the body. As testing continues, this approach could reshape how medicine is monitored and delivered.

Would you be comfortable taking a pill that reports when you swallow it if it meant better health outcomes? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
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January 25, 2026
‘Are You Dead?’ app taps into global loneliness crisis
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A new mobile app from China is going viral for a reason that feels both unsettling and familiar. It exists to answer one basic question for people who live alone: Are you still alive? The app is called “Are You Dead?” and it has surged to the top of China’s paid app charts. It also climbed into the top ten paid apps in the United States. Its popularity reflects more than curiosity. It highlights how many people now live by themselves and worry about what happens if something goes wrong.

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A Chinese-made mobile app called “Are You Dead?” is climbing paid app charts by offering a simple check-in system for people who live alone. (Photo by Hendrik Schmidt/picture alliance via Getty Images)

How the ‘Are You Dead?’ app works

The app’s design is intentionally simple. After paying about $1.15, users add an emergency contact and agree to check in every two days.

Here is how it works in practice:
- Users tap a large green button with a cartoon ghost to confirm they are OK
- If they miss two check-ins, the app sends an email alert on the third day
- The alert tells the emergency contact that something may be wrong
That is it. No tracking. No health data. No constant monitoring. The goal is reassurance, not surveillance. On its English-language page, the app goes by the name Demumu. The developers describe it as a “lightweight safety tool” meant to make solitary life feel less risky. For now, the app is available only on Apple’s App Store for iPhone and iPad.

Why the ‘Are You Dead?’ app went viral in China

The app debuted quietly in May. Then it took off. It is now the top-paid app on China’s Apple App Store and ranks sixth among paid apps in the U.S. The surge reflects a major social shift. More people in China live alone than ever before. One-child policies, rapid urbanization and work that pulls people far from their families all play a role. By 2030, China is projected to have around 200 million one-person households. At that scale, a simple safety check turns from a niche idea into a mass-market tool.

Why users say the app provides peace of mind

For many users, the app is not a joke. It is a safety net. One 38-year-old user told reporters he lives far from his family and worries about dying alone in a rented apartment. He set his mother as his emergency contact so someone would know if something happened to him. Others echoed a similar sentiment online. People living alone, introverts, unemployed workers and those dealing with depression said the app offers peace of mind without requiring constant interaction. Some users even reportedly framed it as a practical courtesy to loved ones rather than a morbid tool.

HOW TO HELP OLDER RELATIVES WITH TECH OVER THE HOLIDAYS

The viral “Are You Dead?” app alerts an emergency contact if a user fails to check in every two days. (Photo by Stefan Sauer/picture alliance via Getty Images)

The name of the app sparks debate

Not everyone is comfortable with the app’s blunt branding. Some users say the name is too dark and turns people away. Several suggested a simple fix: rename it “Are You Alive?” One commenter argued that death in this context is not only literal but social. A softer name might signal care rather than fear. Some users said they would gladly pay for the app if it sounded less grim. The developers appear to be listening.

What the developers of the app plan next

The app is built by a small Gen Z team at Moonscape Technologies. In public statements, the company said it plans to refine the product based on feedback.

Planned updates include:
- Adding direct messaging to emergency contacts
- Making the app more friendly for older users
- Reconsidering the app’s name
Those changes matter in a country where about one in five people is now over age 60.

Loneliness is not just a problem in China

The app’s success abroad suggests the issue is global. In the U.S., living alone is becoming the norm rather than the exception. According to recent census data, 27.6% of U.S. households had just one person in 2020. That figure was under 8% in 1940. Loneliness trends among younger men are especially striking. A Gallup poll found that about one in four Gen Z and millennial men in the U.S. report feeling lonely. That rate is higher than in peer countries like France, Canada, Ireland and Spain. Against that backdrop, an app that asks people to check in feels less extreme and more revealing.

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5 BEST APPS TO USE ON CHATGPT RIGHT NOW

The “Are You Dead?” app reflects growing anxiety among people who live alone and fear medical emergencies going unnoticed. (Getty)

Kurt’s key takeaways

“Are You Dead?” succeeds because it addresses a fear many people rarely say out loud. As more people live alone, the worry is not only about loneliness but also about invisibility. A simple tap every two days becomes a quiet signal that someone still knows you are here. The app may evolve, change its name or add features. The problem it highlights is not going away.

If an app has to ask whether you are alive, what does that say about how disconnected modern life has become? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
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January 21, 2026
FDA clears first at-home brain device for depression

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For the first time, Americans with depression will soon be able to use a prescription brain-stimulation device at home.

The approval comes from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and marks a major shift in how mental health conditions may be treated. The newly approved device is called FL-100, and it comes from Flow Neuroscience.

It is designed for adults 18 and older with moderate to severe major depressive disorder. Clinicians can prescribe it as a stand-alone treatment or alongside antidepressants and therapy. This decision matters because depression affects more than 20 million adults in the U.S. Roughly one-third do not get enough relief from medication or stop taking it due to side effects.

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SIMPLE DAILY HABIT MAY HELP EASE DEPRESSION MORE THAN MEDICATION, RESEARCHERS SAY

Flow Neuroscience has gotten approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for its FL-100 prescription brain-stimulation device. (Flow Neuroscience)

How the Flow FL-100 works

The FL-100 uses transcranial direct current stimulation, often shortened to tDCS. This technology delivers a gentle electrical current to the prefrontal cortex, a region of the brain tied to mood regulation and stress response. In many people with depression, activity in this area is reduced. By stimulating it, the device aims to restore healthier brain signaling over time. The system looks like a lightweight headset and pairs with a mobile app. Patients use it at home for about 30 minutes per day while clinicians monitor progress remotely.

The clinical results behind the approval

The FDA based its decision on a randomized controlled trial that evaluated home use under remote supervision. Participants who received active stimulation showed meaningful improvement on clinician-rated and self-reported depression scales. After 10 weeks of treatment, patients experienced an average symptom improvement of 58% compared to a control group. Many users reported noticeable changes within the first three weeks. The study was published in the journal Nature Medicine, adding credibility to the findings. Side effects were generally mild and short-term. Reported issues included skin irritation, redness, headaches, and brief stinging sensations at the electrode sites.

The FDA has approved the first prescription brain-stimulation device for at-home treatment of depression in the U.S., marking a major shift in mental healthcare. (hoto by ISSAM AHMED/AFP via Getty Images)

A growing shift toward tech-based mental health care

Flow’s device has already been used by more than 55,000 people across Europe, the U.K., Switzerland and Hong Kong. In the U.K., it is prescribed within parts of the public health system. Company leaders say the U.S. approval opens the door for broader access to non-drug treatment options. The momentum is not isolated. In 2025, researchers at UCLA Health developed another experimental brain-stimulation approach, signaling rapid growth in this field. Together, these advances suggest that at-home neuromodulation may soon become a standard part of depression care rather than a fringe option.

When will the device be available

Flow expects the FL-100 to be available to U.S. patients in the second quarter of 2026. A prescription will be required, and the companion app will be available on iOS and Android. The company also plans to explore additional uses for its platform, including sleep disorders, addiction, and traumatic brain injury.

10 HEALTH TECH PRODUCTS STEALING THE SPOTLIGHT AT CES 2026

Flow Neuroscience’s FL-100 headset delivers mild electrical stimulation to the brain and can be prescribed for home use under medical supervision. (Flow Neuroscience)

What to know before trying Flow

Flow is FDA approved for adults 18 and older with moderate to severe major depressive disorder, and it requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Doctors can recommend it on its own or alongside medication or therapy. The headset is non-invasive and designed for home use, but it is not meant for emergency situations or people considered treatment resistant. It also does not replace crisis care or immediate mental health support. Most users wear the headset for about 30 minutes per session. Mild tingling, warmth, skin irritation or headaches can happen, especially early on. These effects are usually short-lived and monitored by a clinician through the companion app.

Flow pairs with a mobile app that guides treatment and supports remote clinical oversight. Your provider sets the treatment plan, and the device follows prescribed settings to ensure safe use. Pricing and insurance coverage may vary once the device becomes available in the U.S. Some patients may access Flow through clinics, research programs, or as it becomes more widely adopted in routine depression care. The bottom line is simple. Flow adds another evidence-based option, not a cure and not a one-size-fits-all solution. For people who have struggled to find relief, having another clinically proven choice can matter a lot.

What this means to you

If you or someone you care about struggles with depression, this approval expands the range of real treatment options. It offers a non-drug path that can be used at home under medical guidance. For patients who have not responded well to medication or who experience unwanted side effects, this could provide another way forward. It also reflects a broader trend toward personalized, tech-enabled mental healthcare.

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ELON MUSK SHARES PLAN TO MASS-PRODUCE BRAIN IMPLANTS FOR PARALYSIS, NEUROLOGICAL DISEASE

The newly approved device targets adults with moderate to severe depression and can be used alongside medication or therapy. (Photo by Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

This FDA approval feels like a real turning point. For years, brain stimulation for depression stayed locked inside clinics. Now it can happen at home with a doctor still guiding the process. That matters for people who have tried medications, dealt with side effects or felt stuck with limited options. This device will not be the right answer for everyone, but it gives patients and doctors one more proven tool to work with. And for many people living with depression, having another option could make all the difference.

If a doctor could prescribe a brain-stimulation headset instead of another pill, would you be open to trying it? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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January 20, 2026
Alexa.com brings Alexa+ to your browser
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For years, Alexa mostly stayed in one place. It lived on kitchen counters, nightstands or living room shelves. That setup worked for music and timers, but it also limited when and how people could actually use the assistant. Now that is changing.

Amazon has rolled out Alexa.com, which brings Alexa+ directly to your web browser for Early Access users. Instead of relying on a speaker or phone, you can now open a laptop and start using Alexa like any other web-based AI tool.

This shift is less about new tricks and more about access. Alexa can now follow you throughout your day instead of waiting for you at home.

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CHATGPT HEALTH PROMISES PRIVACY FOR HEALTH CONVERSATIONS

Amazon’s Alexa is no longer tied to a smart speaker, with Alexa.com bringing the assistant and Alexa+ directly to the web browser for Early Access users. (Photo Illustration by Thomas Fuller/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

What Alexa.com actually is

Alexa.com is the browser-based version of Alexa+. You can type questions, explore topics, plan trips, organize tasks, or create content without touching a smart speaker. The biggest difference is continuity. Alexa keeps context across devices, so conversations carry over whether you are on your laptop, phone, Echo, or Fire TV. You do not have to repeat yourself every time you switch screens. That makes Alexa feel less like a command tool and more like an assistant that remembers what you are working on.

Who can use Alexa.com right now

Alexa.com is not open to everyone yet. To use it, you need:
- Alexa+ Early Access
- An Amazon account linked to a compatible Echo, Fire TV, or Fire tablet
- A US-based Amazon account
- Device language set to English, United States
Child profiles are not supported on the browser version. Older Echo devices will continue using the original Alexa.

What Alexa.com cannot do yet

Because Alexa.com is still in Early Access, it has limits that matter for everyday users. Right now:
- You can only type to Alexa in your browser
- Voice interaction is not supported on the web
- Music playback is not available
- Smart home controls are limited compared to Echo devices
Amazon says features will roll out gradually. Alexa.com is meant to complement your devices, not fully replace them yet.

Meal planning without juggling tabs

One area where Alexa.com feels genuinely useful is meal planning. You can ask Alexa for a full week of meals and set preferences like high protein, low sugar, or kid-friendly lunches. Alexa generates a plan and turns it into a shopping list. From there, items can be added directly to Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods. Instead of bouncing between recipes, notes and carts, everything happens in one place.

Organizing everyday life in one place

Alexa.com also works as a lightweight life organizer. You can upload documents, emails and images so Alexa can pull out key details. That includes appointments, reminders and schedules you would otherwise forget. Instead of searching your inbox, you can ask Alexa when the dog last went to the vet or what time practice starts tonight. The information stays available across devices.

Smart home access, with limits

Alexa.com keeps your smart home controls visible next to your chat window. While full smart home control is still limited in the browser, Alexa.com lets you check status, review activity and continue actions on your Echo or Fire TV devices. It is most useful as a bridge. You can start something in the browser and finish it at home without starting over.

Recipes that follow you into the kitchen

Alexa.com also simplifies cooking. If you find a recipe online, you can paste the link into Alexa and ask it to adjust for dietary needs. Alexa can save it, convert it into ingredients and add everything to your shopping list. When it is time to cook, Alexa can pull the recipe up on your Echo Show, guide you step by step and manage timers so your hands stay free.

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Alexa.com lets users type questions, plan trips, organize tasks and create content without relying on an Echo or smartphone. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Finding something to watch faster

Decision fatigue hits hard at night. On Alexa.com, you can explore movie themes, get recommendations and save picks for later. When you sit down, Alexa remembers your choices and sends them to your Fire TV. That cuts down on scrolling and family debates.

What about privacy

Using Alexa on the web raises natural privacy questions. Amazon says Alexa+ includes built-in protections and user controls. Still, it is worth taking a minute to review your settings, especially if you plan to upload documents or personal information. A few smart habits can help:
- Check your Alexa privacy settings and review stored activity
- Avoid uploading sensitive documents like IDs or medical records
- Use strong antivirus software to protect your device. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
As with any AI assistant, convenience comes with trade-offs. Staying aware helps you stay in control.

How much Alexa+ will cost

Alexa+ is free during Early Access. When Early Access ends, you will not be automatically charged. After that:
- Alexa+ stays free with a Prime membership
- Non-Prime users can subscribe for $19.99 per month
This makes Alexa.com more appealing for Prime members and a tougher sell for everyone else.

What this means to you

For most people, Alexa.com is about convenience. If you already use Alexa at home, the web version makes it easier to use during the day. You can plan, organize, or look things up from your computer and then pick up later on your phone or Echo. It also puts Alexa in the same category as other browser-based AI tools, but with deeper ties to shopping, smart home features and entertainment. Whether you stick with it will likely come down to how often you want Alexa to help you during your day.

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YOU CAN FINALLY CHANGE YOUR GMAIL ADDRESS WITHOUT LOSING DATA

Amazon says Alexa.com allows conversations to carry over across devices, giving users continuity between laptops, phones and smart home screens. (Photographer: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Alexa.com does not reinvent Alexa. It simply makes it easier to use where people already spend time. By bringing Alexa+ to the browser, Amazon is betting that continuity matters more than novelty. For some users, that will be enough to make Alexa feel relevant again.

If Alexa followed you from your laptop to your living room, would you actually rely on it more, or would it still feel optional? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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January 19, 2026
New personal eVTOL promises personal flight under $40K
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Personal electric aircraft have teased us for years. They look futuristic, promise freedom from traffic, and usually come with prices that put them out of reach or timelines that feel uncertain. Recently unveiled at CES 2026, the Rictor X4 entered that conversation with some bold claims.

It is a single-passenger electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft designed to make short-range personal flight more accessible and far more affordable. If those promises hold up, it could change how we think about flying for everyday trips.

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CES 2026 put health tech front and center, with companies showcasing smarter ways to support prevention, mobility and long-term wellness. (CES)

TECH STARTUP, MAJOR AIRLINE PARTNER TO LAUNCH ELECTRIC AIR TAXI SERVICE

What the Rictor X4 actually is

The Rictor X4 uses a multirotor design with eight propellers spread across four carbon fiber arms. Those arms fold inward when the aircraft is not in use, allowing it to fit in the bed of a pickup truck. The aircraft focuses on low-altitude flight and short hops rather than long journeys.

Key specs include:
- Top speed of about 50 mph
- Maximum flight time of 20 minutes
- Payload capacity of up to 220 pounds, including the pilot
It can lift off and land vertically like a helicopter, then transition into forward flight once airborne. Rictor describes its mission as light aerial mobility, which essentially means short-distance commuting and professional applications.

Inside the X4’s propulsion and power system

According to Rictor, the X4’s propulsion system is built around stability and redundancy rather than raw speed. Each axis uses a coaxial dual-motor configuration designed to provide consistent thrust during low-altitude flight.

Key propulsion details include:
- Rated thrust of up to 165 pounds per axis
- Peak thrust exceeding 285 pounds per axis
- Maximum continuous power output of 10 kW
- 120-volt operating system designed for outdoor conditions
Together, these systems aim to deliver controlled, predictable flight with built-in safety margins, especially during takeoff, landing, and hover.

The Rictor X4 is a single-passenger electric aircraft designed for short-range, low-altitude flight with a folding multirotor layout. (Rictor)

Safety systems and flight control in the Rictor X4

Rictor puts safety at the center of the X4’s design. The aircraft uses a semi-solid state battery system with dual battery redundancy, which helps enable a controlled landing if one battery module fails. In addition, an emergency parachute system provides backup protection during critical situations. At the same time, a centralized flight control system actively manages propulsion, attitude, and overall system health. This system continuously monitors key flight data to help maintain stability in changing conditions.

Beyond software, the hardware plays an important role. The X4 features 63-inch carbon fiber folding propellers in a 4-axis, 8-propeller configuration. Together, they support a payload of up to 220 pounds, including the pilot. According to Rictor, the aircraft is designed to operate at noise levels below 65 decibels, although independent testing has not yet been published. Finally, Rictor’s proprietary Dynamic Balance Algorithm adjusts the output of all eight motors in real time. As a result, the X4 can maintain a stable hover even in side winds rated up to Level 6.

The FAA rule that could make personal flight easier

One of Rictor’s most attention-grabbing claims involves regulation. The company says the X4 is designed to comply with FAA Part 103, which governs ultralight vehicles in the US. If operated within Part 103 limits, the X4 could be flown legally without airworthiness certification or a pilot’s license. Rictor says this is enabled by autonomous pre-programmed flight paths and very low altitude operation, reportedly as low as three meters above ground. It is worth noting that Part 103 still carries operational restrictions, including where and how flight can occur. Final compliance depends on real-world use and FAA interpretation.

Designed to fold, transport, and recharge

Portability is a major focus. Rictor says the X4 folds down to about 42 cubic feet, which makes it compact enough to transport in the bed of a pickup truck. The company also highlights in-vehicle charging support while parked or on the move, positioning the X4 as something that can be transported and recharged alongside ground vehicles rather than stored at an airfield.

AIR TAXI SERVICE PLANS EVTOL RIDES FROM ALL THREE NYC AIRPORTS

The price that resets expectations

The Rictor X4 carries a launch price of $39,900 with a $5,000 deposit. That alone separates it from most personal eVTOLs currently discussed in the market. The aircraft is produced by Kuickwheel Technology, Rictor’s parent company. According to the company, first customer deliveries are scheduled for Q2 2026. As with any aircraft launch, timelines remain aspirational until production units reach customers.

Why this matters now

Personal eVTOLs have lived in a narrow space between concept and reality. High costs, regulatory hurdles, and safety concerns have slowed adoption. If Rictor delivers an aircraft that performs as described while operating within ultralight rules, it could expand personal flight beyond niche enthusiasts and into practical short-range use. Now it comes down to whether the company can deliver on what it’s promising.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

The Rictor X4 brings together aggressive pricing, compact design, and regulatory positioning in a way we have not seen before. Folding propellers, redundant safety systems, and Part 103 alignment make it one of the most ambitious personal eVTOL launches to date. The unanswered questions center on real-world performance, regulatory interpretation, and production readiness. Until aircraft are flying outside controlled demonstrations, healthy skepticism remains warranted. Still, this is one of the most compelling personal flight announcements to come out of CES in recent years.

Would you trust a personal eVTOL like this for everyday trips, or does flight still feel like a step too far for now? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
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January 18, 2026
Breakthrough device promises to detect glucose without needles
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The idea of tracking blood sugar without needles has challenged health tech for years. For people with diabetes, constant monitoring is critical, yet the tools remain uncomfortable and invasive. Finger pricks hurt. Traditional continuous glucose monitors still sit under the skin. That daily burden adds up fast.

Recently, one small device has been drawing significant attention for tackling that problem in a very different way.

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WEIGHT LOSS EXPERTS PREDICT 5 MAJOR TREATMENT CHANGES LIKELY TO EMERGE IN 2026

A small breath-based device called isaac aims to alert users to glucose changes without needles or sensors under the skin. (PreEvnt)

Why noninvasive glucose tracking matters

Blood sugar levels can rise or fall quickly. When changes go unnoticed, the risks increase, from long-term organ damage to sudden hypoglycemia. Monitoring can be especially difficult for:
- Small children
- Older adults
- Anyone who struggles with needles
At the same time, glucose tracking has surged among people without diabetes. As GLP-1 medications gain popularity, many people now track their blood sugar to understand how food affects their bodies. The need for simpler tools keeps growing.

Even Apple has spent years trying to bring no-prick glucose tracking to wearables. Despite heavy investment, the feature has yet to arrive.

NEEDLE-FREE GLUCOSE CHECKS MOVE CLOSER TO REALITY

Instead of finger pricks, the device analyzes acetone and other compounds in exhaled breath linked to blood sugar levels. (PreEvnt)

How the PreEvnt isaac monitors glucose using breath

One of the most talked-about health devices at CES 2026 came from PreEvnt. Its product, called isaac, takes a nontraditional approach to glucose awareness. Instead of piercing skin or using optical sensors, isaac analyzes your breath.

The device measures volatile organic compounds, especially acetone, which has long been associated with rising blood glucose. That sweet fruity breath is a known marker of diabetes. By detecting changes in those compounds, isaac can alert users to potential glucose events. The device is small, about the size of a quarter, with a loop so it can be worn on a lanyard or clipped to clothing or a bag.

The breath-based design is intended to reduce how often users need finger-prick blood tests, while providing early alerts for glucose-related changes.

The device is named after the inventor’s grandson, Isaac, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at just 2 years old. The inventor, Bud Wilcox, wanted to reduce the number of painful finger pricks his grandson faced each day. That personal motivation led to years of collaboration with scientists, designers and engineers. Research and development included work with Indiana University under the direction of Dr. M. Agarwal. The goal was simple but ambitious: Alert families to blood sugar events earlier while reducing the physical and emotional toll of constant testing.

How the isaac device fits into daily life

Isaac is designed to fit into everyday routines. Users breathe into the device, which processes the reading and sends the data to a companion smartphone app. The app, still in its final stages of development, focuses on awareness and safety. Current features include:
- A timeline for logging meals
- A history of breath readings
- Alerts that can notify emergency contacts
This matters because people with diabetes can become disoriented or incapacitated during hypoglycemic events. Early alerts give caregivers or family members a chance to step in. A single charge lasts all day and supports multiple breath tests. The device comes with a USB-C charging cradle and cable.

Who isaac is designed for

According to PreEvnt, isaac is being developed for:
- Type 1 diabetics
- Type 2 diabetics
- Prediabetics
It may also appeal to people focused on metabolic health. As mentioned, the device is still undergoing development and FDA review and is not yet for sale in the U.S. The companion app will launch on iOS and Android closer to availability.

TYPE 1 DIABETES REVERSED IN LANDMARK STUDY, PAVING THE WAY FOR HUMAN STUDIES

Designed for everyday use, the isaac wearable device pairs with a smartphone app to log readings and send alerts when needed. (PreEvnt)

Clinical trials and FDA review for the isaac device

PreEvnt first introduced isaac publicly at CES 2025. Later that year, the device entered active human clinical trials. Those studies compare isaac’s breath-based alerts with traditional blood glucose monitoring methods.

Trials began with adolescents who have Type 1 diabetes and later expanded to adults with Type 2 diabetes. The company is now working toward regulatory review with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Because this technology is new, PreEvnt is pursuing a de novo pathway, which allows devices to be evaluated while standards are still being defined. According to the company, regulators have shown strong interest as the data continues to come in.

Isaac does not claim to replace medical-grade glucose meters. The device is being developed to supplement existing monitoring methods by offering breath-based alerts tied to glucose-related changes.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Noninvasive glucose monitoring has long felt like a future promise that never quite arrives. The attention around isaac at CES 2026 suggests that promise may finally be getting closer. If clinical trials continue to deliver strong results and regulators give approval, breathing into a small device could one day replace at least some finger pricks. For families living with diabetes, that shift could make daily life easier and safer.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
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January 17, 2026
CES 2026 showstoppers: 10 gadgets you have to see

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Every January, the Consumer Electronics Show, better known as CES, takes over Las Vegas. It’s where tech companies show off what they’re building next, from products that are almost ready to buy to ideas that feel pulled from the future.

CES 2026 was packed with moments that made people stop and stare. Some of the tech felt practical. Some of it felt a bit wild. However, these 10 showstoppers were the ones everyone kept talking about on the show floor.

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1) LG Wallpaper TV

LG pushed TV design to the edge of invisibility once again at CES 2026. The latest Wallpaper TV, officially called the LG OLED evo W6, is just 9mm thin and sits completely flush against the wall. From the side, it looks more like glass than a television.

This version feels far more practical than earlier Wallpaper models. All inputs live in a separate Zero Connect Box, which wirelessly sends visually lossless 4K video and audio to the screen from up to 30 feet away. That keeps cables out of sight and gives you more freedom when placing the TV.

THIS EV HAS A FACE, AND IT TALKS BACK WITH AI

The LG CLOiD robot and the LG OLED evo AI Wallpaper TV are displayed onstage during an LG Electronics news conference at CES 2026, an annual consumer electronics trade show, in Las Vegas, Jan. 5, 2026. (REUTERS/Steve Marcus)

Picture quality also takes a major step forward. LG’s new Hyper Radiant Color Technology boosts brightness, improves color accuracy and deepens blacks while cutting screen reflections. With Brightness Booster Ultra, the Wallpaper TV reaches up to 3.9 times the brightness of conventional OLEDs and stays easy to watch even in bright rooms.

Powering it all is LG’s new Alpha 11 AI Processor Gen3. Its upgraded Dual AI Engine preserves natural detail while reducing noise, avoiding the overly sharp look that plagues some high-end TVs. Gamers also get plenty to like, including 4K at up to 165Hz, ultra-fast response times and support for NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium.

Availability: Expected later in 2026 through select retailers.

2) Dreame Cyber X Stair-Climbing Robot Vacuum

Dreame showed plenty of power at CES 2026, but the real jaw-dropper was the Cyber X concept. This robot vacuum uses a four-legged base that lets it climb stairs on its own, turning multi-level cleaning into something that finally feels automated.

The design looks unusual at first, almost like a robot pet. Once it starts moving, though, the idea clicks. A built-in water tank reduces trips back to the dock, which should help extend cleaning sessions and preserve battery life.

Dreame’s Cyber X concept uses a four-legged design to climb stairs on its own, hinting at a new era of autonomous home robots. (Dreame)

It’s still a concept, but Cyber X feels like a glimpse at where home robots are headed. Less rolling around. More real autonomy.

Availability: Concept product.

3) SwitchBot AI MindClip

SwitchBot joined the growing AI wearable trend with the MindClip, a tiny device designed to act like a second brain. It clips on easily, weighs just 18 grams and stays out of the way while quietly doing its job.

MindClip can record conversations and meetings, summarize calls and create AI-powered notes. It also supports more than 100 languages, making it useful for work, travel or multilingual households. Like similar devices, it lets you listen back to recordings and read transcriptions later.

Where MindClip aims to stand out is in memory. SwitchBot says users will be able to search past recordings and track down important details it captured earlier, turning everyday conversations into a searchable archive. That could be especially helpful for busy professionals and students who juggle calls, classes and meetings.

The tiny MindClip clips on discreetly while recording, transcribing and organizing conversations using AI. (SwitchBot)

Details are still limited, and no pricing has been announced. SwitchBot has hinted that many key features will require a subscription, which puts it in line with competing AI wearables.

Availability: Not yet available. Pricing and preorder details have not been released.

4) LG CLOiD Home Robot

LG didn’t just show off a concept robot at CES. It showed a glimpse of what a true AI-powered home might look like.

At LG Electronics’ booth at CES 2026, the company unveiled LG CLOiD, a home robot designed to handle real household chores as part of its “Zero Labor Home” vision. This isn’t just a rolling assistant. CLOiD can fold laundry, help in the kitchen and move safely around furniture.

The robot uses a stable, wheeled base inspired by robot vacuums, paired with a tilting torso and two articulated arms. Each arm has human-like movement and individual fingers, allowing CLOiD to grip, lift and place objects with surprising precision. In demos, it retrieved items from the fridge, loaded an oven and folded clothes after a laundry cycle.

CLOiD’s head acts as a mobile AI home hub, using cameras, sensors and voice-based AI to understand routines and control LG’s ThinQ-connected appliances. It still feels futuristic and a little unsettling, but the technology behind it is hard to ignore. If LG can make it practical and affordable, CLOiD could mark a real step toward AI doing the housework for us.

Availability: Concept and research-stage technology. Not planned for consumer sale at this time.

5) Glyde Smart Hair Clippers

Glyde is trying to solve one of the most frustrating parts of grooming: cutting your own hair without messing it up.

The company introduced AI-powered smart hair clippers designed to guide the cut for you. You wear a simple headband that marks where a fade should start, choose a style in the app and let the clippers do the rest. Built-in sensors track your speed, angle and movement in real time, automatically adjusting the blade to keep cuts even and fades smooth.

This is very much a trust exercise. You’re letting software guide sharp blades near your head, and that won’t be for everyone. But for people who skip the barber, hate appointments or just want a quick cleanup at home, the idea makes sense.

Glyde’s system is built to be “mistake-proof.” Move too fast, and the blade retracts. Tilt it the wrong way, and it trims less. Popular styles like buzz cuts, crew cuts and side parts are baked into the app, with step-by-step guidance that adapts as you cut.

It’s a one-time investment meant to replace repeat barber visits. If it works as promised, Glyde could turn haircuts into a 10-minute task you do on your own schedule.

Availability: Limited early access or direct sales may come later in 2026.

6) LEGO Smart Bricks

LEGO is adding a digital twist to its classic bricks, and surprisingly, it works. At CES, LEGO introduced LEGO Smart Play, a new line built around “Smart Bricks” that look like regular LEGO pieces but hide sensors, LEDs and speakers inside. The bricks can detect movement, distance and interaction, lighting up, changing color and producing sound effects in real time as kids play.

The launch leans heavily into Star Wars, including sets with Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, an X-Wing and a TIE fighter. In one demo, a Luke minifigure produced its own lightsaber sounds. In another, bricks made swooshing and crashing noises when attached to vehicles, while figures reacted when they were “hit.” It felt playful, immersive and instantly understandable.

A LEGO piece with a smart brick attached is displayed during a LEGO news conference ahead of the CES tech show Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Smart Tags snap into the bricks to control different behaviors, and a quick shake wakes everything up. Pricing starts around $70 and climbs to about $160, with Star Wars sets arriving in March. LEGO hasn’t shared details on battery life yet, but the goal is clear: add interactivity without pushing kids toward screens.

This feels like LEGO doing tech the right way. You still build with your hands, imagine the story and snap bricks together. The technology simply brings the play to life.

Availability: Launching March 2026. Expected to be sold through LEGO and major retailers.

7) Autoliv Foldable Steering Wheel

This might look like a small change, but it could completely reshape future car interiors.

Autoliv unveiled the world’s first foldable steering wheel designed for Level 4 autonomous vehicles. When the car switches into self-driving mode, the steering wheel retracts smoothly into the dashboard, opening up the cabin and giving occupants more space to relax, work or just stretch out.

What makes this impressive is that safety isn’t sacrificed. Autoliv built an adaptive airbag system that changes with the driving mode. When you’re driving manually, the airbag lives in the steering wheel as usual. Once the wheel folds away in autonomous mode, a separate airbag in the instrument panel takes over, keeping protection intact at all times.

It’s a smart, practical solution to a problem automakers are already facing. If cars don’t always need a steering wheel, why should it always be in the way? Autoliv’s design shows how autonomy isn’t just about software, it’s about rethinking the entire cabin experience.

Availability: Automotive supplier technology for future vehicles.

8) TDM Neo Hybrid Headphones

These might be the most interesting headphones at CES for one simple reason: they refuse to stay just headphones.

Tomorrow Doesn’t Matter, better known as TDM, unveiled Neo, a premium on-ear 2-in-1 hybrid headphone that physically twists into a compact Bluetooth speaker. No docking. No accessories. Just a quick rotation, and your personal audio turns into shared sound. Amazing, right?

The concept might sound a bit gimmicky, but the execution feels solid. The hinge mechanism is sturdy, the transformation is intuitive, and the idea makes a lot of sense in real life. You can listen privately on a train, then flip Neo into speaker mode the moment you meet up with friends.

TDM describes this as going from “solo to social,” and that’s exactly the appeal. It blurs the line between headphones and portable speakers in a way we haven’t really seen before. For travelers, outdoor users, or anyone who hates carrying multiple audio devices, Neo could be a genuinely very useful hybrid device.

Availability: TDM will be launching Neo on Kickstarter later this month and will begin shipping in July.

9) Jackery Solar Mars Bot

Jackery made waves at CES with the Solar Mars Bot, a mobile solar generator that can move, track sunlight and recharge itself without constant setup.

The Solar Mars Bot uses AI-enhanced computer vision to navigate on its own, follow its user and reposition throughout the day to capture the strongest available sunlight. Instead of manually adjusting panels or relocating gear, the system handles those decisions automatically. When not in use, its solar panels fold and retract, which helps make storage and transport more practical.

What sets this system apart is how it blends mobility with energy storage. Unlike fixed solar installations that stay in one place or portable generators that must be carried and recharged by hand, the Solar Mars Bot actively manages its own power intake. It tracks the sun, recharges itself using solar energy and delivers power where it is needed.

That makes it especially useful for extended power outages, off-grid living, emergency backup and outdoor adventures where access to electricity can change throughout the day. The Solar Mars Bot shows how portable power can become more intelligent, adaptable and hands-off when conditions are unpredictable.

Availability: Prototype showcased at CES.

10) Timeli Personal Safety Device

Timeli grabbed a lot of attention at CES 2026 with a simple, immediate approach to personal safety. By combining a flashlight, HD video recording, a loud alarm, GPS tracking and live emergency dispatch into one handheld device, it earned a CES 2026 Innovation Awards Honoree and plenty of interest on the show floor.

Instead of opening an app or tapping through menus, Timeli relies on muscle memory. A quick press turns on a powerful flashlight and starts recording video. If a situation escalates, pressing and holding the SOS button triggers a full safety sequence. The alarm sounds, live video begins streaming, GPS coordinates lock in and two-way communication connects directly to emergency dispatch over cellular service.

That live connection matters. Timeli works with RapidSOS to give dispatchers real-time video and location data. This added clarity helps responders understand what is happening faster and send the right help sooner. Studies show video verified emergencies can cut response times dramatically, while also reducing false alarms.

Timeli works even without a phone. Built-in cellular, GPS, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow it to operate on its own or alongside the companion app for iOS and Android. Users can adjust video quality, light brightness and alarm volume to match their needs. Cloud video storage and alerts add another layer of reassurance.

WORLD’S THINNEST AI GLASSES FEATURE BUILT-IN AI ASSISTANT

The design stays practical. Timeli is about the size and weight of a smartphone, so it fits easily in a pocket, purse or backpack. Battery life supports long standby time, extended daily use and several hours of active protection. It even doubles as a power bank, while reserving enough charge to stay ready for emergencies.

Availability: Priced at $249 for preorder through timeli.com. Timeli includes a year of professional monitoring before transitioning to a monthly subscription.

Honorable mentions: CES 2026 products worth checking out

These products also stood out on the CES 2026 show floor, highlighting smart design choices and meaningful innovation that point to the future of consumer tech.

ASUS Zenbook Duo (2026)

ASUS reimagined portable productivity with the 2026 Zenbook Duo. This laptop snaps two 14-inch 3K ASUS Lumina OLED touchscreens together into a single mobile workstation you can carry with one hand.

The dual-screen setup lets you keep a main project open on one display while chats, calls or reference material live on the other. That alone cuts down on constant app switching. The OLED panels deliver rich color, deep blacks, smooth motion and built-in eye care that makes long sessions easier on your eyes.

ASUS also upgraded what you hear. A new six-speaker system replaces the previous two-speaker design, creating fuller, more immersive audio for movies, music, and calls. Everything is wrapped in a Ceraluminum ceramic finish that resists fingerprints and scratches while feeling premium in hand.

Availability: Expected early 2026. Pricing has not been announced.

SpotOn GPS Fence Nova Edition

SpotOn focused on precision and reliability with the launch of the SpotOn GPS Fence Nova Edition. This is a GPS dog fence system designed to create virtual fences anywhere, from small yards to massive rural properties, with no subscription required.

What sets Nova apart is its advanced antenna and receiver system. SpotOn uses a dual-band, dual-feed active antenna paired with a dual-band receiver that reduces GPS drift by up to 40% and delivers accuracy up to eight times better than competing systems. In third-party testing, it achieved 100% reliable containment.

Owners can create unlimited fences by walking boundaries, drawing them in the app, or placing GPS fenceposts automatically. The collar also includes intelligent audio cues, optional static correction, custom voice commands, LED prompts and sizing that grows with your dog. If a dog ever leaves the fence, tracking tools are available through the app or SpotOn support.

Availability: Available in the US and Canada for $999.

Lenovo Legion Go Powered by SteamOS

Lenovo took handheld gaming seriously with the Legion Go powered by SteamOS. This is the most powerful Legion handheld to ship natively with SteamOS, blending desktop-class performance with console-like simplicity.

It features an 8.8-inch PureSight OLED display and can be configured with up to an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, up to 32GB of LPDDR5X memory, and up to 2TB of PCIe SSD storage with expansion via microSD. SteamOS is tuned for gamepad controls and quick access, with features like fast suspend and resume, cloud saves, Steam Chat and built-in game recording.

The result feels less like a mini PC and more like a true console you can carry. You get instant access to your Steam library without juggling operating systems or launchers.

Availability: On sale June 2026. Starting price is $1,199.

SanDisk Optimus GX 7100M NVMe SSD

SanDisk introduced a new internal drive brand at CES, and the Optimus GX 7100M is its first standout. Built for handheld gaming consoles and thin and light laptops, this PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD delivers speeds up to 7,250 MB per second.

The drive is available in capacities up to 2TB, giving gamers faster load times, more room for large libraries and smoother performance on the go. It is designed for devices that support an M.2 2230 slot, including popular handheld consoles and compact laptops.

This launch also marks the debut of the SanDisk Optimus name, which will replace the company’s internal SSD lineup for gamers, creators and professionals moving forward.

Availability: Expected early spring 2026. Pricing will be announced closer to release.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

CES 2026 made one thing clear. Tech companies are taking bigger swings than ever. Some of these products feel close to becoming part of everyday life. Others may stay experimental for years. That’s what makes CES so fascinating. It gives us an early look at where technology could be headed and sparks conversations about what we actually want in our homes, cars and daily routines.

Which CES 2026 showstopper impressed you the most? Why? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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January 9, 2026
Plastic bottles could power your devices one day

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Each year, billions of single-use plastic bottles end up in landfills or oceans. That waste problem keeps growing. Now, a new scientific breakthrough suggests those same bottles could help power your daily life.

Researchers have developed a way to transform discarded plastic water bottles into high-performance energy storage devices called supercapacitors. The work focuses on PET plastic, short for polyethylene terephthalate, which is used in most beverage bottles.

The research was published in Energy & Fuels and highlighted by the American Chemical Society. Scientists say the discovery could reduce plastic pollution while helping drive cleaner energy technology.

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SCIENTISTS EXTRACT SILVER FROM E-WASTE USING COOKING OIL

Discarded PET water bottles are one of the most common sources of plastic waste worldwide, with hundreds of billions produced each year. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why PET plastic waste is such a growing problem

PET plastic is everywhere. According to the researchers, more than 500 billion single-use PET plastic bottles are produced every year. Most are used once and thrown away. Lead researcher Dr. Yun Hang Hu says that scale creates a major environmental challenge.

Instead of letting that plastic pile up, the team focused on upcycling it into something valuable. Their idea was simple but powerful. Turn waste into materials that support renewable energy systems and reduce production costs at the same time.

NEW TECH RECOVERS 92% OF EV BATTERY METALS

Those upcycled materials come together to form an all-waste-plastic supercapacitor designed for fast charging and long term energy storage. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How plastic bottles can store and release energy

Imagine a device that can charge fast and deliver power instantly. That is exactly what supercapacitors do. They store and release energy much faster than traditional batteries, which makes them useful for electric vehicles, solar power systems and everyday electronics.

Hu’s team found a way to build these energy storage components using discarded PET plastic water bottles. By reshaping the plastic at extremely high temperatures, the researchers turned waste into materials that can generate electricity efficiently and repeatedly.

Here is how the process works:

For the electrodes, researchers cut PET bottles into tiny, grain-sized pieces. They mixed the plastic with calcium hydroxide and heated it to nearly 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit in a vacuum. That heat transformed the plastic into a porous, electrically conductive carbon powder.

The powder was then formed into thin electrode layers. For the separator, small pieces of PET were flattened and carefully perforated with hot needles. This pattern allowed electric current to pass efficiently while maintaining safety and durability. Once assembled, the device used two carbon electrodes separated by the PET film and submerged in a potassium hydroxide electrolyte.

CIGARETTE BUTTS MAKE ROADS STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE

Researchers use extreme heat to convert waste PET plastic into porous carbon materials that can store and move electricity efficiently. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why the results surprised scientists

When tested, the all-waste-plastic supercapacitor outperformed similar devices made with traditional glass fiber separators. After repeated charging and discharging, it retained 79 percent of its energy capacity. A comparable glass fiber device retained 78 percent. That difference matters. The PET-based design costs less to produce, remains fully recyclable, and supports circular energy storage technologies where waste materials are reused instead of discarded.

What this means for you

This breakthrough could affect everyday life sooner than you might expect. Cheaper supercapacitors can lower the cost of electric vehicles, solar systems and portable electronics. Faster charging and longer device lifespans could follow. It also shows that sustainability does not require giving something up. Waste plastics could become part of the solution instead of the problem. Although this technology is still in development, the research team believes PET-based supercapacitors could reach commercial markets within 5 to 10 years. In the meantime, choosing reusable bottles and plastic-free alternatives still helps reduce waste today.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Turning trash into energy storage is more than a clever idea. It shows how science can tackle two global challenges at once. Plastic pollution continues to grow. Energy demand does too. This research proves that those problems do not have to be solved separately. By rethinking waste as a resource, scientists are building a cleaner and more efficient future from materials we already throw away.

If your empty water bottle could one day help power your home or car, would you still see it as trash? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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January 7, 2026
Robots learn 1,000 tasks in one day from a single demo

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Most robot headlines follow a familiar script: a machine masters one narrow trick in a controlled lab, then comes the bold promise that everything is about to change. I usually tune those stories out. We have heard about robots taking over since science fiction began, yet real-life robots still struggle with basic flexibility. This time felt different.

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ELON MUSK TEASES A FUTURE RUN BY ROBOTS

Researchers highlight the milestone that shows how a robot learned 1,000 real-world tasks in just one day. (Science Robotics)

How robots learned 1,000 physical tasks in one day

A new report published in Science Robotics caught our attention because the results feel genuinely meaningful, impressive and a little unsettling in the best way. The research comes from a team of academic scientists working in robotics and artificial intelligence, and it tackles one of the field’s biggest limitations.

The researchers taught a robot to learn 1,000 different physical tasks in a single day using just one demonstration per task. These were not small variations of the same movement. The tasks included placing, folding, inserting, gripping and manipulating everyday objects in the real world. For robotics, that is a big deal.

Why robots have always been slow learners

Until now, teaching robots physical tasks has been painfully inefficient. Even simple actions often require hundreds or thousands of demonstrations. Engineers must collect massive datasets and fine-tune systems behind the scenes. That is why most factory robots repeat one motion endlessly and fail as soon as conditions change. Humans learn differently. If someone shows you how to do something once or twice, you can usually figure it out. That gap between human learning and robot learning has held robotics back for decades. This research aims to close that gap.

THE NEW ROBOT THAT COULD MAKE CHORES A THING OF THE PAST

The research team behind the study focuses on teaching robots to learn physical tasks faster and with less data. (Science Robotics)

How the robot learned 1,000 tasks so fast

The breakthrough comes from a smarter way of teaching robots to learn from demonstrations. Instead of memorizing entire movements, the system breaks tasks into simpler phases. One phase focuses on aligning with the object, and the other handles the interaction itself. This method relies on artificial intelligence, specifically an AI technique called imitation learning that allows robots to learn physical tasks from human demonstrations.

The robot then reuses knowledge from previous tasks and applies it to new ones. This retrieval-based approach allows the system to generalize rather than start from scratch each time. Using this method, called Multi-Task Trajectory Transfer, the researchers trained a real robot arm on 1,000 distinct everyday tasks in under 24 hours of human demonstration time.

Importantly, this was not done in a simulation. It happened in the real world, with real objects, real mistakes and real constraints. That detail matters.

Why this research feels different

Many robotics papers look impressive on paper but fall apart outside perfect lab conditions. This one stands out because it tested the system through thousands of real-world rollouts. The robot also showed it could handle new object instances it had never seen before. That ability to generalize is what robots have been missing. It is the difference between a machine that repeats and one that adapts.

AI VIDEO TECH FAST-TRACKS HUMANOID ROBOT TRAINING

The robot arm practices everyday movements like gripping, folding and placing objects using a single human demonstration. (Science Robotics)

A long-standing robotics problem may finally be cracking

This research addresses one of the biggest bottlenecks in robotics: inefficient learning from demonstrations. By decomposing tasks and reusing knowledge, the system achieved an order of magnitude improvement in data efficiency compared to traditional approaches. That kind of leap rarely happens overnight. It suggests that the robot-filled future we have talked about for years may be nearer than it looked even a few years ago.

What this means for you

Faster learning changes everything. If robots need less data and less programming, they become cheaper and more flexible. That opens the door to robots working outside tightly controlled environments.

In the long run, this could enable home robots to learn new tasks from simple demonstrations instead of specialist code. It also has major implications for healthcare, logistics and manufacturing.

More broadly, it signals a shift in artificial intelligence. We are moving away from flashy tricks and toward systems that learn in more human-like ways. Not smarter than people. Just closer to how we actually operate day to day.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Robots learning 1,000 tasks in a day does not mean your house will have a humanoid helper tomorrow. Still, it represents real progress on a problem that has limited robotics for decades. When machines start learning more like humans, the conversation changes. The question shifts from what robots can repeat to what they can adapt to next. That shift is worth paying attention to.

If robots can now learn like us, what tasks would you actually trust one to handle in your own life? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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January 4, 2026
The real reason golden ages collapse—and how the U.S. can avoid it

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While campaigning, President Donald Trump said, “We’re a nation in decline.”

Now that he’s president, the left agrees.

“We are witnessing the collapse and implosion of the American empire,” says Cornell West.

Are the predictors of doom correct? Will America collapse like so many civilizations before us?

If we don’t learn from history, says historian Johan Norberg, that might happen.

“It’s a clash within every civilization on whether they should keep going, be open to innovation and progress, or whether they should retreat and decline,” he says in my new video.

His book, Peak Human: What We Can Learn from History’s Greatest Civilizations, looks at the “golden ages” of Ancient Athens, Ancient Rome, Song China, the Abbasid Dynasty in Baghdad, Renaissance Italy, the Dutch Republic, and the Anglosphere.

Norberg argues that once people acquire a certain amount of comfort, they say, “‘We want stability, protection, we want someone to take care of us.’…That’s what leads to stagnation.”

People in power are generally comfortable with that.

“They’ve built their power on a particular system of production, certain ideas, a particular mentality….Whereas trade, innovation, growth, it’s all about change….What sets these golden ages apart is that, for a period of time, they managed to lift themselves above that and give more people more freedoms. That also allowed them to experiment more and come up with better technologies and raise living standards.”

Greece once led the world. Rome, too. Not anymore. Why?

Because people want “safety, stability, protection,” says Norberg. “They slow things down, get that stability, but they also get stagnation and poverty.”

China experienced a golden age during the Song Dynasty.

“They had more freedom than other Chinese dynasties….More openness to new ideas from strange places….[Farmers] were allowed to experiment with new grain, new forms of rice from Vietnam, and to trade with others. They came up with constant innovations. It became a very urbanized society that ushered in incredible experiments with iron, steel, textile, machines.”

The government scrapped laws that had limited what could and couldn’t be sold. They allowed markets to stay open all night (something not allowed before).

“In traditional Chinese society, people had fixed areas where they were allowed to live and where they had to return after having done a day’s work. People did not mingle and meet people from other classes, other professions….Under the Song Dynasty, the walls were torn down….They began to mingle with one another….They could do more business, listen to concerts, go to religious ceremonies. Eventually, Chinese society realized that this is how you make progress. This is how we become wealthier. When more people meet, when more people exchange goods and services and ideas, they prosper.”

But after the Mongols invaded, the Chinese banned ocean voyages and foreign trade. They stifled the experimentation that had made them rich.

“They wanted stability after all this uncertainty and chaos. ‘How do we do that?’…By regulating everything, telling people to stay in their places….They got stability. They also got 500 years of stagnation, 500 years that turned the richest and greatest civilization on the planet to a desperately poor country.”

If any country is in a golden age today, I would think it’s America, and Norberg agrees.

“I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else in human history. We have made such remarkable progress when it comes to expanding freedoms, reducing poverty, increasing life expectancy.”

But the American experiment is now 250 years old. Few golden ages last that long. Once affluent, people want stability, and a government that resists change.

“That then undermines the innovation that we need to keep golden ages going,” warns Norberg. “If we want a golden age to keep going, we have to fight for it.”

How?

“Double down on the institutions of liberal democracy, free markets, and unleash new waves of innovation and of progress. There is still time. We can still save this golden age.”

COPYRIGHT 2025 BY JFS PRODUCTIONS INC.

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John Stossel

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December 30, 2025
Long Island scores $56M for economic development projects | Long Island Business News
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THE BLUEPRINT:

Long Island awarded $56.4M through REDC and ACHIEVE programs.

$26.4M supports 29 Nassau and Suffolk County projects.

$30M funds Regional Commercialization Corridor for innovation.
Long Island is receiving a total of $56.4 million in economic and community development funding, state officials said Tuesday. The money was awarded through the 2025 Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) initiative under New York Gov. Kathy Hochul.

With this year’s funding, $26.4 million will support 29 projects in Nassau and Suffolk counties, leveraging $66.1 million in additional public and private investments, according to Empire State Development (ESD).

And $30 million of the funding was awarded through the Advancing Collaboration for High-impact Initiatives for the Economic Visions & Expansion (ACHIEVE) competition, which aims to foster REDCs to advance economic development projects that prompt broader growth, create jobs and attract investment. The $30 million awarded to Long Island is for the Regional Commercialization Corridor project, which was developed by the LIREDC. Coordinated with Newlab, which runs business incubators, and Activate, a tech training nonprofit, the corridor is designed to link Long Island’s research and manufacturing strengths to New York City’s capital and innovation networks to foster economic development in the region.

Projects on Long Island awarded REDC funding are designed to support waterfront revitalization, childcare, new housing and more.

“Governor Hochul‘s REDCs continue to recommend proposals that will create jobs and spur new growth through a locally focused, bottom-up strategy to economic development,” Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said in a news release about the funding.

“By awarding state funding to projects that align with regional priorities, New York is investing in new ideas, new efforts and new developments to promote community growth throughout the state,” she added.

“From critical housing and infrastructure projects to Long Island’s selection for the inaugural ACHIEVE competition, these investments demonstrate the region’s capacity to deliver transformational, high-impact growth,” ESD Board Chair Kevin Law said.

“With Governor Hochul’s support, Long Island is advancing projects that will drive innovation, create jobs, and establish the region as a national leader in emerging hard-tech industries,” he added.

“We thank Gov. Hochul for her strong commitment to Long Island and for recognizing the region’s potential for long-term growth and innovation,” Long Island Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Kimberly Cline said in a joint statement. “We are also grateful to our council members and partners whose leadership and hard work continue to drive progress. These investments will strengthen our communities, support local businesses, and create new opportunities for Long Island residents.”

Projects awarded funding include $2 million to advance the Town of Brookhaven’s waterfront revitalization program in Mastic. It also includes $2.5 million to construct extensions and upgrade the existing sanitary collection system and related equipment to support a new 30-unit housing development in Patchogue. And $1.28 million went to the Bridgehampton Child Care and Recreational Center, to renovate and expand two underutilized buildings so that the center can help meet demand with new, affordable childcare slots.

The full list of awards is available here.
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Adina Genn

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December 30, 2025

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