FDM CCS Insight pointed to one area of the devices market which is showing signs of promise against a mostly gloomy backdrop, as it noted smartphones are not the only form-factor affected by rising component costs.

Analysts believe the smart ring sector is nailed on to book a rise in shipments in 2026, bucking an anticipated 3% drop in the overall wearables market.

FDM CCS Insight stated wearables’ woes would mostly stem from an anticipated drop in smartwatch shipments, the dominant form-factor in 2025.

The company predicts smartwatch shipments to fall 4% due to “replacement fatigue” and a general lack of innovation.

It also highlighted “supply side” issues involving memory and component costs as hindrances, indicating problems which have affected the smartphone market for some time are beginning to spread.

FDM CCS Insight acknowledged a forecast smart ring shipments would grow 53% this year comes “from a small base” in previous years, but argued the rise points to a greater “interest in health and wellness tracking” among buyers, along with broader retail availability.

It ranked Oura at the top of the shipments table for the first half of the year and noted Ultrahuman recovered from a ban on shipments in the US during the final quarter of 2025.

A recent “easing of regulations” by the US Food and Drug Administration is also tipped to fuel future shipments.

Senior analyst Ekta Mittal said the company’s research showed “75% of smart ring owners also own a smartwatch”, suggesting there could be a knock-on effect for the latter form-factor.

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By the end of a long day, my right thumb clicks, not every time, but often enough that

Japan Wires AI Into Medicine Japan built the world’s most trusted names in medical hardware and biopharma. This

Huawei unveiled its Pura 90s Series smartphone lineup at a launch event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, placing design and photography upgrades at the centre.

Huawei emphasised the series aims to allow users to move efficiently “from capture to refinement” across long-range, macro and low-light photography. The smartphones are fitted with a 200MP ultra large sensor telephoto camera system, alongside a 50MP main sensor and a 40MP ultra-wide lens.

The telephoto setup supports 4x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom. AI-powered composition and image optimisation tools are also built in to speed up editing.

The top-end Pura 90s Pro Max variant features a 6.9-inch LTPO OLED display with 1-120Hz adaptive refresh. The device runs on the Chinese vendor’s proprietary EMUI 16.0 operating system and is available in 12GB RAM configurations paired with 256GB or 512GB storage options.

The series comes equipped with a 6,000mAh battery in non-EU markets and support for up to 100W wired and 80W wireless super charging. Handsets are available in four colour gradients.

Alongside the smartphone launch, Huawei unveiled its MatePad Air tablet featuring an OLED PaperMatte display and a bundle of AI tools aimed at supporting document and content workflows. The vendor also refreshed its wearables portfolio with the FreeClip 2 S earbuds, introducing two new colour options, a redesigned charging case and improved user comfort.

Huawei added its latest launches underscore its ambition to building a “connected and cohesive user experience” aimed at supporting “diverse user needs”.

The vendor first launched its Pura 90 series earlier this year, alongside its wide-screen Pura X Max foldable smartphone.

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Apple’s on-device generative AI system reportedly received the green light from Chinese regulators, clearing the way for its long-delayed debut in the world’s largest smartphone market.

Reuters reported China’s cyberspace regulator stated Apple’s on-device generative AI service, Apple Intelligence, has been registered for use on iPhones in China.

The news outlet stated Apple Intelligence will tap into capabilities from AI models developed by Baidu and Alibaba, citing a source familiar with the matter.

Alibaba confirmed to Reuters its Qwen model will be integrated into Apple Intelligence across iPhone, iPad, Mac and Vision Pro in China.

A Baidu representative confirmed the company is also working with Apple on AI features for Chinese iPhone users.

Bloomberg reported the Cyberspace Administration of China included Apple’s generative AI services on a list of newly approved providers, alongside offerings from local companies like Huawei and Xiaomi.

Neither the regulator nor Apple has given a launch date.

The approval gives Apple greater access into a Chinese population eager to experiment with new AI tools, potentially boosting the company’s recent recovery in the market as it attempts to narrow the gap with domestic AI leader Huawei.

Reuters also reported ZTE’s Nubia-Doubao phone, built using ByteDance’s Doubao AI, was registered by the regulator in the same batch.

The post China clears Apple Intelligence for launch appeared first on Mobile World Live.

OpenAI is reportedly preparing to enter the consumer hardware market with a portable, screen-free smart speaker designed to serve as an AI companion in the home.

Sources told Bloomberg the device will access ChatGPT’s AI capabilities to control smart home appliances, play media, answer questions and respond to messages. It will utilise OpenAI’s GPT-Live voice technology to listen and adaptively respond at the same time to support more natural conversations and incorporate AI models beyond those used in existing smart speakers.

In addition, the hardware will apparently feature a camera and sensors to enable the AI to read its surroundings. Unlike conventional smart speakers, the rechargeable device will be portable and feature moving mechanical elements.

It will also draw on user data such as emails to become increasingly personalised over time. OpenAI envisions the speaker developing a humanlike personality, proactively surfacing information, anticipating users’ needs and acting as a physical embodiment of ChatGPT.

OpenAI’s hardware unit is reportedly developing around five products in total, with the speaker set to be the first to market.

Last year, the company splashed $6.5 billion to acquire io Products, the device startup co-founded by former Apple design chief Jony Ive. Ive’s creative design studio LoveFrom is also working on the hardware line.

A hardware launch would put the ChatGPT-maker in direct competition with Apple, Amazon and Google in consumer devices.

Trade secrets
Last week, Apple filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and io Products, alleging “theft of trade secrets” obtained through former employees during hiring to accelerate the development of its AI devices. According to its lawsuit, more than 400 former Apple employees have joined OpenAI’s hardware effort.

Drew Pusateri, a spokesman for OpenAI, told the BBC OpenAI has “no interest in other companies’ trade secrets” and is “focused on building innovative technology that empowers people everywhere”.

Apple is seeking an injunction that could delay the AI giant’s device sales. According to Bloomberg, OpenAI is aiming to unveil the speaker later this year, with release targeted for 2027, subject to the lawsuit.

Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly developing its own AI-focused home devices including a smart home hub with a 7-inch display and facial recognition tied to the upcoming AI-powered Siri revamp in iOS 27.

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Samsung hyped-up redesigned screen technology intended to cut crease visibility and improve durability of foldable smartphones, in its latest announcement eking out details of new devices set to be launched at Galaxy Unpacked next week.

The company explained its Flex Titanium display technology uses structural and material advances on components used in its previous generations of foldables.

Alongside improvements in the robustness of the screen, Samsung claimed the new tech provided a “more refined viewing experience”.

It noted the development was shaped by a “deep understanding” of what users want from foldable smartphones, namely larger immersive viewing experiences and a less visible crease.

The Flex Titanium technology is set to make its debut in devices unveiled at Galaxy Unpacked in London on 22 July.

In recent years Samsung’s mobile product events held in July have been where it unveils its new generation of foldables and various other product updates. Its flagship Galaxy S smartphones are generally launched at Galaxy Unpacked events held in Q1 each year.

In the run up to the upcoming event, it has released a steady stream of information hyping what’s to come and lauding progress in developing foldables since the launch of its first iteration in 2019, a device it now describes as a “bold experiment”.

In comments released by the company last week, Samsung CEO and president TM Roh hinted at the possibility a new foldable form factor device could be revealed at Galaxy Unpacked, while also pushing the idea the vendor would deliver “more personal, natural AI experiences”.

Alongside fresh additions to its foldable line, the company announced it will present the “next evolution” of its Galaxy Watch at the upcoming event.

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Meta Platforms deepened its smart glasses push with the launch of a set of lower-priced models under its own brand name for the first time.

Called Meta Glasses, the company stated it is introducing three styles in partnership with manufacturer EssilorLuxottica, at a starting price of $299.

At the lower end of the price point are the Meta Adventurer and Meta Fury options, while a fashion-inspired variant designed in collaboration with celebrity Kylie Jenner costs $399.

The moves marks a change from Meta’s strategy which has made the company a leading smart glasses provider, with it previously launching eyewear in partnership with well-known brands in the segment such as Ray-Ban and Oakley.

Recent Ray-Ban and Oakley ranges had starting prices of $799 and $499 respectively when they were launched in September 2025.

Competition
Meta stated is offering 26 styles through the new line-up, and like with all the glasses in its portfolio they offer a range of AI features, open ear speakers, an advanced multi-mic array, over 8 hours of battery life and advanced privacy settings.

It also highlighted compatibility with Muse Spark, its first model from Meta Superintelligence Labs built specifically for its products, powering the Meta AI platform.

Competition is ramping up in the smart glasses sector, with Apple reportedly due to launch its own offering later this year, as is Google and Samsung Electronics.

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Independent practices are losing money at the front desk and most don’t see it on a balance sheet.

If you shop on Google Flights, you get a quick comparison for different itineraries: One flight’s carbon emissions

Researchers at the TechMed Centre of the University of Twente have built a swallowable soft robot that samples stomach fluid

In another life, John Lewin was a spy. Well, technically, he worked on spy satellites. In 1983, equipped with

For the first time, scientists have succeeded in artificially mimicking the ion signalling of heart muscle cells. To

In a groundbreaking advance that could reshape the treatment landscape for cardiac arrhythmias, researchers have unveiled a novel therapeutic strategy employing polyamines to combat life-threatening irregular heart rhythms specifically associated with Short QT Syndrome type 3 (SQTS3). This genetic condition, known for dramatically shortening the heart’s repolarization phase, predisposes individuals to sudden cardiac events, often without prior warning. The research, published in Nature Communications, represents a significant leap in understanding the molecular underpinnings of SQTS3 and presents polyamines as potent modulators capable of restoring normal cardiac electrophysiology.

Short QT Syndrome encompasses a rare yet perilous spectrum of inherited cardiac channelopathies characterized by an abnormally abbreviated QT interval on the electrocardiogram, indicating faster than normal electrical recovery of heart muscle cells after each heartbeat. Among its subtypes, SQTS3 is tied to mutations affecting the cardiac sodium channel’s late current, a critical factor in modulating myocardial excitability. These mutations accelerate repolarization, compromising the heart’s rhythm stability and elevating risks of syncope, atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and sudden cardiac death. Traditional treatment options—including implantable devices and antiarrhythmic drugs—offer limited efficacy and often entail significant side effects.

The research team, led by Moreno-Manuel et al., embarked on an exploration of polyamines—naturally occurring organic cations ubiquitously present in mammalian cells known to participate in a variety of physiological processes including cellular growth and ion channel regulation. Through an integrative approach combining electrophysiological assays, molecular dynamics simulations, and in vivo cardiac modeling, the investigators demonstrated that certain polyamines can fine-tune defective sodium channel kinetics implicated in SQTS3. This modulation effectively prolongs the action potential duration, thereby rectifying the shortened QT interval hallmark of this syndrome without inducing proarrhythmic effects.

Central to their findings is the discovery that polyamines achieve this modulation by specifically interacting with allosteric sites on the sodium channel alpha subunit encoded by the SCN5A gene. Mutations causing gain-of-function late sodium current diminish the usual window for ion flow, which polyamines counterbalance by stabilizing conformational states conducive to controlled sodium influx. Notably, this action preserves physiological ion gradients and electrical stability while mitigating the rapid repolarization that predisposes to arrhythmogenic vulnerability. Such molecular specificity underscores the potential for polyamine-based therapies to selectively target the dysfunctional channel machinery underlying SQTS3.

Their multidisciplinary methodology included patch-clamp recordings from cardiomyocytes harboring the mutant SCN5A channels, illustrating that polyamine treatment extends the duration of late inward sodium currents. Complementary computational models provided mechanistic insights into the electrostatic and steric features facilitating polyamine binding and channel gating modulation. Moreover, pharmacokinetic assessments confirmed favorable bioavailability and cardiac tissue penetration of the tested polyamine analogs, positioning them as viable candidates for therapeutic development.

One particularly compelling aspect of this work is the repurposing paradigm: leveraging endogenous molecules whose physiological roles have been extensively characterized, thereby accelerating the translational pipeline. This contrasts with traditional drug discovery routes, which often involve extensive high-throughput screening and optimization of synthetic molecules. By harnessing polyamines, the study circumvents many hurdles of safety and toxicity profiles, given their intrinsic presence and metabolization pathways in the human body.

Beyond the immediate implications for SQTS3, the findings extend to a broader context of cardiac electrophysiology disorders encompassing mutations in various ion channels. The concept of modulating channel function via small endogenous compounds might inspire innovative approaches for other arrhythmias linked to gain- or loss-of-function anomalies, including Long QT Syndrome, Brugada Syndrome, and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. This opens new vistas for precision medicine aimed at fine-tuning ion channelopathies at their source.

Importantly, the research comprehensively addressed potential off-target effects by rigorous in vitro and in vivo screening. No deleterious alterations in cardiac contractility or autonomic regulation were observed, highlighting polyamines’ selective efficacy and safety. This crucial aspect paves the way for clinical trial designs where polyamine derivatives can be tested as monotherapies or adjuncts to existing treatments with the aim of reducing arrhythmia burden and improving patient survival.

From a pathophysiological viewpoint, the study advances understanding of how subtle perturbations in ion channel gating profoundly impact whole-organ function through their influence on action potential morphology and conduction velocity. The successful restoration of action potential duration through polyamine interaction underscores the finely balanced electrochemical environment critical to maintaining cardiac rhythmicity. Such insights reaffirm the importance of detailed molecular characterization to inform therapeutic innovations.

The societal implications of this research are substantial. Short QT Syndrome, though rare, often goes undiagnosed until catastrophic events occur, underscoring an urgent need for preventive interventions. The advent of polyamine-based treatments could transform clinical management by offering less invasive, pharmacological options that directly target the underlying channel dysfunction rather than merely mitigating symptoms or resorting to implantable devices.

From a translational perspective, the investigation combines cutting-edge bioinformatics, molecular biology, and electrophysiology to fast-track bench-to-bedside application. The researchers emphasize the necessity of continued longitudinal studies to monitor long-term outcomes and to optimize dosing regimens, as well as investigations into polyamine effects under variable physiological and pathological conditions including stress and comorbidities.

Finally, the work highlights a paradigm shift toward complexity-informed drug design where endogenous molecular interactions are exploited to achieve maximal therapeutic specificity and efficacy. This paradigm champions a future where personalized medicine harnesses the biochemical language of the cell to rectify disease at its molecular inception rather than relying solely on symptomatic management.

In summary, the repurposing of polyamines to prevent life-threatening arrhythmias in Short QT Syndrome type 3 marks a landmark achievement with profound clinical and scientific ramifications. It unveils new mechanistic dimensions of cardiac ion channel regulation and proposes a safe, targeted, and effective therapeutic avenue for a devastating yet currently undertreated condition. As the field advances, this approach holds promise not only for SQTS3 but also for a spectrum of cardiac channelopathies, ushering in a new era of molecular precision cardiology.

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Subject of Research: Therapeutic modulation of ion channel dysfunction in Short QT Syndrome type 3 using polyamines.

Article Title: Repurposing polyamines to prevent life-threatening arrhythmias in Short QT Syndrome type 3.

Article References:
Moreno-Manuel, A.I., Cruz, F.M., Macías, Á., et al. Repurposing polyamines to prevent life-threatening arrhythmias in Short QT Syndrome type 3. Nat Commun (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-74259-7

Image Credits: AI Generated

A gene therapy designed to replace a missing brain protein restored normal brain activity and improved behavior in

US President Donald Trump (pictured) stated Apple has struck a deal with Intel to produce computer chips inside the US, a move which marked a significant moment in his administration’s push to reshore semiconductor manufacturing.

“I decided to help Intel because we need to design and build our Chips right here in America,” Trump wrote on Truth Social today (18 June).

He added Apple’s agreement was the latest in a series of wins for his domestic chip strategy, following similar commitments from Nvidia and Elon Musk’s TeraFab project with Intel.

The Apple agreement marks another significant win for Intel. CEO Lip-Bu Tan, who spent much of last year shoring up the company’s balance sheet through major external investments, now appears to be delivering on operational improvements which seemed unlikely just a year ago.

For Apple, the partnership offers a chance to diversify a supply chain which currently depends heavily on TSMC to produce the processors powering its iPhones, iPads and Mac computers.

Any agreement will likely be a foundry deal, since Apple already designs its own silicon.

Apple price increases
Apple CEO Tim Cook told the Wall Street Journal price increases for its products are now unavoidable, citing soaring costs for memory and storage chips driven by the AI boom. He stated Apple had absorbed rising costs for as long as possible, but the pressure has become too great to avoid passing increases on to customers.

A domestic chip supply deal from Intel could give Apple more flexibility in an increasingly constrained global market, though analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has previously suggested any production through Intel’s advanced 18A-P process node is unlikely to reach mass scale before late 2027.

Trump’s post also gave him an opportunity to tout the government’s earlier bet on Intel. Last August, his administration converted roughly $8.9 billion in federal funding into an equity stake of around 10% in the company.

He noted in his post Intel was worth around $100 billion when the government made its offer.

“Now they are worth over 600 BILLION DOLLARS! Nine months, and they’ve increased in value over HALF A TRILLION DOLLARS. America’s stake is now over 60 Billion Dollars.”

The post Trump touts Apple, Intel chip deal appeared first on Mobile World Live.

In a groundbreaking advancement that promises to reshape the landscape of wearable technology and soft robotics, researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have developed a pioneering self-powered piezoelectric fiber sensor exhibiting unprecedented stretchability and resilience. This novel device, capable of enduring elongations up to 668%, heralds a new era of flexible sensors that can reliably monitor physiological signals over extended periods without relying on external power sources such as batteries.

Wearable medical devices designed to continuously track vital signs—heart rate, respiration, and joint movement—have long been limited by the mechanical and electrical degradation of their sensing components under repeated deformations. Traditional piezoelectric fiber sensors, which convert mechanical forces into electrical signals, often suffer from diminished performance as their thin electrode layers and fragile piezoelectric materials falter during routine bending and stretching. Overcoming this barrier, the KAIST research team led by Professor Miso Kim has introduced a transformative approach that stabilizes sensor function even after thousands of mechanical cycles.

Central to this breakthrough is the adoption of a meticulously engineered “Hierarchical Resilient Design,” wherein resilience is embedded across multiple structural levels of the sensor. This concept mirrors the elasticity of a rubber band, allowing the piezoelectric fibers to recover their original form and function after extensive stretching. The research team achieved this by dispersing elastic polymer microparticles within the piezoelectric nanofibers, creating a Velcro-like interlocking microstructure that enhances the sensor’s mechanical robustness and self-restorative capabilities.

The interface engineering between the sensor’s electrical components also proved critical. By enhancing the bonding between the piezoelectric layers and the electrodes, the team prevented delamination—a common failure mode under deformation—that typically degrades signal integrity. This strong adhesion at the material interfaces ensures continuous charge transfer and maintains stable electrical outputs even when the sensor is twisted, pressed, or stretched significantly.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the sensor’s design is its coil and knot structures. By coiling the piezoelectric fibers, the researchers capitalized on geometric extensions, enabling the sensor to stretch over six times its initial length without losing sensitivity. Furthermore, knot configurations were tested to validate sensor durability under complex and dynamic mechanical stresses such as sudden impacts or localized pressure, demonstrating stable electrical signals regardless of deformation mode.

Beyond mechanical resilience, the KAIST team integrated artificial intelligence techniques to interpret the electrical outputs from the sensor. Utilizing machine learning algorithms, they could accurately distinguish between distinct mechanical stimuli—such as bending, stretching, and pressing—offering a valuable platform for intuitive and precise biosignal monitoring in real-world environments. This capability opens new horizons for dynamic human-machine interfacing, where nuanced movement detection is critical.

What sets this breakthrough apart is its self-powered nature. Unlike conventional wearable sensors that depend on finite battery life, the piezoelectric polymer fibers harvest mechanical energy directly from body movements, converting it into usable electrical signals. This sustainable mechanism not only eliminates maintenance concerns but also allows for ultra-lightweight, unobtrusive devices suitable for long-term wear.

The implications of this technology extend well beyond healthcare monitoring devices. Electronic skins capable of mimicking human sensory reception, soft robotic actuators with sensitive feedback loops, and next-generation digital health tools could all benefit from the combination of stretchability, mechanical resilience, and stable self-generated electrical outputs demonstrated by this platform. Such multifunctional usability places this development firmly at the forefront of flexible electronics innovation.

Professor Miso Kim emphasized the significance of their approach: “By simultaneously achieving mechanical resilience and electrical reliability through fiber structure design combined with precise electrode interface engineering, we have laid the foundation for wearable devices capable of long-term operation under strenuous conditions,” she remarked. This robust design paradigm, she asserts, will empower a new generation of devices that continuously monitor biosignals with unprecedented accuracy and durability.

Published in the prestigious journal ACS Nano, the team’s research showcases both fundamental materials science and applied engineering excellence. The paper titled “Mechanically and Functionally Resilient Piezoelectric Fiber Coils and Knots for Reliable Self-Powered Sensing” details the synthesis of the nanofiber composites, the meticulous fabrication of coil and knot geometries, and a comprehensive analysis of the sensor’s electromechanical performance over extensive cyclical tests.

The scientific community has lauded this work for addressing long-standing issues in flexible sensor design. By merging nanoscale material innovations with macrostructural strategies, the KAIST team has created a versatile sensing platform that bridges the gap between laboratory prototypes and real-world applications. Their work sets a precedent for future interdisciplinary efforts aimed at wearable electronics that demand both high performance and durability.

Funded by multiple National Research Foundation of Korea initiatives, this research underscores Korea’s growing leadership in advanced materials and smart sensor development. The integration of elastic polymer microparticles within piezoelectric nanofibers, combined with interface science and architectural engineering, exemplifies the kind of holistic approach necessary to push boundaries in next-generation electronics.

Looking ahead, this resilient, self-powered fiber sensor technology could transform how we collect and interpret physiological data in ambulatory settings, enable more sophisticated prosthetics with tactile feedback, and empower soft robots with human-like sensory capabilities. As devices become lighter, more adaptable, and energy-autonomous, the convergence of materials science and artificial intelligence will accelerate innovations that make previously impossible applications a reality.

In conclusion, the KAIST team’s pioneering piezoelectric fiber sensor offers a robust and reliable solution to historic challenges in wearable sensory technology. Its remarkable combination of extreme stretchability, stable electricity generation without batteries, and intelligent signal analysis marks a significant leap forward that is poised to impact multiple sectors, from healthcare to robotics and beyond.

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Subject of Research: Development of highly stretchable, mechanically resilient, self-powered piezoelectric fiber sensors for wearable devices and soft robotics.

Article Title: Mechanically and Functionally Resilient Piezoelectric Fiber Coils and Knots for Reliable Self-Powered Sensing

News Publication Date: June 18, 2026

Web References: https://doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.5c19628

References: Choi, Y. J., Park, J., Nam, J., Sim, G.-D., Kim, M.-G., & Kim, M. (2026). Mechanically and Functionally Resilient Piezoelectric Fiber Coils and Knots for Reliable Self-Powered Sensing. ACS Nano.

Image Credits: KAIST

Keywords

Self-powered sensor, piezoelectric polymer, wearable medical devices, stretchable electronics, fiber coil sensor, interface engineering, mechanical resilience, electrical stability, nanofiber composites, artificial intelligence, biosignal monitoring, flexible sensors.

In a remarkable leap forward for medical technology, a team of researchers led by Zou, X., Zhang, J., and Chan, C.P.Y. have unveiled a groundbreaking advancement in haptic feedback systems designed specifically for endoscopic teleoperation and remote palpation. Detailed in their recent publication in npj Flexible Electronics, this innovative approach employs dense elastomeric liquid metal microcoil-based interfaces to transform how surgeons and medical professionals interact with remote internal environments. The intersection of flexible electronics, smart materials, and precision control opens new vistas for minimally invasive procedures and telemedicine.

At the heart of this breakthrough lies the integration of liquid metal microcoils encapsulated within elastomeric substrates, forming a highly sensitive yet mechanically robust haptic interface. These microcoils are capable of generating precise electromagnetic fields which can be finely tuned to mimic various tactile sensations encountered during palpation of organic tissues. The elastomeric medium ensures that the device remains soft and compliant, paralleling the flexibility of biological tissues, a critical characteristic for interfacing with delicate anatomical structures during endoscopic maneuvers.

Traditionally, the lack of tactile feedback in endoscopic teleoperation has been a significant barrier limiting the surgeon’s ability to perform nuanced examinations and manipulations remotely. Without real-time haptic cues, operators must rely heavily on visual data, often constraining them to less precise interventions. The dense microcoil architecture introduced here circumvents this limitation, delivering graded force feedback that enhances situational awareness and operational dexterity. This certainly augurs well for improved patient outcomes and expanded applicability of robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgeries.

The engineering challenge of embedding electrically conductive liquid metals within stretchable matrices is particularly formidable due to factors such as metal leakage, durability under repeated mechanical deformation, and signal fidelity. By leveraging advanced microfabrication techniques, the research team has managed to arrange multiple liquid metal microcoils in closely packed networks, maintaining electrical continuity while allowing for substantial skin-like elasticity. The resulting elastomeric platform simultaneously exhibits excellent mechanical endurance and electromagnetic responsiveness, making it highly suitable for continuous use in clinical settings.

Further advancing the technology, the microcoils’ electromagnetic emissions can be dynamically modulated to emulate various textures and firmness levels characteristic of different tissue types. Thus, the interface can replicate sensations ranging from firm nodules to soft cystic formations, invaluable during diagnostic remote palpation. This capacity to differentiate subtle differences in tissue compliance could revolutionize tele-diagnostic methodologies and enable the virtual presence of expert clinicians regardless of their physical location.

Additionally, the researchers demonstrated that the compactness and biocompatibility of their design allow seamless integration with existing endoscopic instruments. Since these haptic interfaces are fabricated on flexible substrates that conform to complex geometries, retrofitting current devices for enhanced tactile perception becomes feasible without significant hardware overhaul. This compatibility introduces a pragmatic pathway for rapid clinical adoption and accelerates the translation from lab prototype to bedside tool.

Significantly, the device’s exceptional spatial resolution stems from the microcoil density that surpasses conventional haptic arrays by an order of magnitude. This density enables highly localized force feedback, empowering surgeons to discern minute anatomical features and manipulative pressures, akin to natural touch. Enhanced spatial acuity not only minimizes inadvertent tissue damage but also refines the precision of surgical gestures performed remotely, a vital enhancement for robotic endoscopy.

The durability tests conducted reveal that the elastomeric microcoil arrays withstand thousands of mechanical cycles without degradation in electrical or tactile function. This endurance is crucial for clinical reliability, as surgical procedures often extend over hours and necessitate consistent tactile feedback. The elastomer’s resistance to bodily fluids and sterilization processes further underscores its practicality for repeated use within sterile operating room environments.

Beyond endoscopy, the principles underpinning this technology have vast implications across medical robotics and wearable health devices. From remote rehabilitation to advanced prosthetics, densely packed liquid metal microcoil arrays embedded in soft elastomers could deliver highly intuitive haptic sensations that bridge the gap between man and machine. Their ability to accurately simulate touch and force presents a paradigm shift in direct human-machine interaction technologies.

Expanding the scope of teleoperation, this innovation paves the way for real-time remote palpation performed by specialists thousands of miles away. The combination of high-fidelity haptic feedback with tactile sensation mapping can enable remote diagnosis with unprecedented accuracy. This is particularly transformative for geographically isolated healthcare facilities, where access to expert practitioners is limited, enhancing healthcare equity on a global scale.

Further insights from the study highlight that the electromagnetic microcoils can operate efficiently with low power consumption, vital for portable and battery-operated surgical tools. Efficient energy usage not only extends operational time but reduces heat generation, an important factor in preserving tissue safety and user comfort. The smart material approach balances functionality with operational pragmatism, addressing key limitations in current haptic technologies.

From a materials science perspective, the marriage of liquid metal and elastomer illustrates a masterclass in multifunctional composite design. The liquid metal component, inherently conductive and deformable, harmonizes with the elastomer’s resilience to achieve electro-mechanical transduction without compromising softness. This synergy redefines the possibilities of flexible electronics by providing a multi-physics platform capable of sensing, actuating, and adapting simultaneously.

Another notable aspect lies in the scalability of the fabrication method. This enables mass production of the microcoil arrays with reproducible quality and design flexibility tailored to varied endoscopic devices. Scalability is essential for widespread clinical deployment and cost-effectiveness. By providing a reliable route for industrial manufacturing, the researchers have addressed one of the critical barriers to translating cutting-edge soft electronics into real-world medical accessories.

In conclusion, Zou et al.’s pioneering contribution in developing dense elastomeric liquid metal microcoil-based haptic interfaces represents a landmark achievement with far-reaching consequences for telemedicine and minimally invasive surgery. Their meticulous integration of fluid mechanics, materials engineering, and electromagnetic control offers a new standard for tactile interaction in remote medical procedures. This breakthrough invigorates the field of flexible electronics and sets a blueprint for next-generation human-machine interfaces enhancing surgical precision and patient care worldwide.

As the medical community faces the continuing challenge of providing expert care in increasingly complex and constrained environments, innovations such as these provide a beacon for safely extending human touch beyond physical boundaries. Dense elastomeric liquid metal microcoil haptics are poised to redefine surgical telepresence, promising a future where distance no longer limits the healing power of human touch.

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Subject of Research: Dense elastomeric liquid metal microcoil-based haptic interfaces for improving tactile feedback in endoscopic teleoperation and remote palpation.

Article Title: Dense elastomeric liquid metal microcoil-based haptic interfaces for endoscopic teleoperation and remote palpation.

Article References:
Zou, X., Zhang, J., Chan, C.P.Y. et al. Dense elastomeric liquid metal microcoil-based haptic interfaces for endoscopic teleoperation and remote palpation. npj Flex Electron (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41528-026-00608-7

Image Credits: AI Generated

Social media company Snap officially unveiled its new AR glasses priced at $2,195, the company’s latest push into the segment.

A decade in the making, Snap stated the AR glasses developed by its dedicated Specs subsidiary would bring AI assistance, work tools, entertainment and shared experiences “into the world around us”.

The device is scheduled to ship later this year, initially in the US, UK and France.

Specs are priced at more than 15-times the price of Snap’s original $130 camera-only Spectacles, which debuted in 2016 and struggled to gain traction.

Snap emphasised main selling points of Specs as being fully standalone, made from Swiss TR90 polymer and available in two sizes.

A 47mm model weighs 132 grams and a 52mm version 136 grams.

Snap argued current smart glasses are lightweight but limited in what they can do, while headsets “are powerful but can feel isolating and cumbersome”.

Specs are designed to address those drawbacks. The display system is powered by Snap’s proprietary liquid crystal on silicon technology, delivering a 51-degree field of view and 16 million colours. It claimed the display “feels like a 24-inch monitor” while working, or a 115-inch home cinema screen placed 10 feet away when watching a movie.

Other highlights include up to four hours of mixed battery life spanning audio and video playback, AI assistance for services including maps and general queries, and the ability to cast a screen and stream content wherever the user is.

Specs run two Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, with one dedicated to computer vision and the other running developer tool Lenses.

Lenses enables the glasses to access interactive features including academic and music educational tools.

Qualcomm struck a multi-year platform deal with the Specs subsidiary in April.

The post Snap sets out vision for $2,000 smart glasses appeared first on Mobile World Live.

Google started rolling out Android 17 on its Pixel devices, though some of its headline AI features will not arrive for another few months.

The initial version of Android 17 became available yesterday (16 June) on its devices, with other hardware brands to follow throughout 2026.

A new feature available in the launch is Bubbles, a multitasking tool which lets users collapse any app into a floating window which stays visible on screen, Google stated in a blog post.

Bubbles can be stacked, dragged to position and resized as required. On large-screen and foldable devices, bubbles are docked in a dedicated bar at the bottom of the display.

Google positions the feature as useful for referencing maps, writing notes during a call or keeping texts visible without opening the app switcher.

Screen recording has been updated with a new toolbar and feature called Screen Reactions, which lets users record themselves via the selfie camera while simultaneously capturing what’s on their phone screens.

Bloomberg reported the tool is Google’s response to the growing popularity of reaction-style video across social media, building the format directly into Android to reduce reliance on third-party apps such as CapCut and Instagram Edits.

For foldable device owners, Android 17 introduces a dedicated gaming mode with an optimised 50/50 layout placing a game view on top and a dynamic gamepad below.

Google has also reduced frame drops and improved memory cleanup for high-definition gaming, with native controller remapping available for external controllers.

Security
On the security and privacy front, users can now grant apps one-time location access rather than making a permanent decision and share only specific contacts rather than their full address book.

Lost Mode has been tightened to require biometric authentication alongside a PIN, making it harder for thieves to access a missing device even if they know the passcode.

Live Threat Detection has also been improved to block a greater range of suspicious apps and scams, and enhanced Advanced Protection mode helps keep users safe from sophisticated threats.

To stop bad actors trying to guess their way into users’ phones, Google reduced the number of times someone can guess a PIN and added longer wait times between failed attempts.

Many of Android 17’s more advanced features will follow later this year. Gemini Intelligence, redesigned emoji, smarter voice dictation and vibe-coded widgets will arrive soon, coming first to the Pixel 11 series and upcoming Samsung devices.

Google is also updating Wear OS 7 with longer battery life, better interoperability with connected devices including smart glasses, and Gemini Intelligence features including multi-step app automations.

The Android updates came a week after Apple unveiled a long list of AI and Siri improvements due in the coming months, highlighting the intensifying rivalry between the two mobile platforms.

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