Category: All News

March 29, 2025
Google Pixel 9a Launch in India on April 16, Global Sale Date Announced
Key Takeaways
1. The Google Pixel 9a officially launched globally on April 10, 2025, with sales in various regions following on April 14 and April 16.
2. Pricing for the Pixel 9a is set at $499 for the 128GB model and $599 for the 256GB version; in India, the 256GB variant costs 49,999 INR.
3. Buyers in India can purchase the Pixel 9a through Flipkart, with a limited-time cashback offer of 3,000 INR and 24 months of no-cost EMI options.
4. The Pixel 9a features a 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset and running on Android 15 OS with 7 years of updates.
5. The smartphone has a dual-camera setup (48MP main and 48MP ultra-wide) and a 5,100mAh battery with 23W wired and 7.5W wireless charging capabilities.
The Google Pixel 9a, which many have been eagerly awaiting, finally launched globally last week after a series of leaks and speculations. Although the budget-friendly Pixel was initially supposed to be available next month, the exact release date remained uncertain. Now, the company has officially disclosed the initial sale dates for various regions, including India.
Google Pixel 9a Sale Timelines
The tech giant is set to begin sales of the Pixel 9a in the US, Canada, and UK on April 10, 2025. Following that, countries like Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland, France, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Portugal, Switzerland, Poland, Czechia, Romania, Hungary, Slovenia, Slovakia, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, and Finland will see the rollout on April 14. In India, alongside Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia, the Pixel 9a will be available starting April 16.
Pricing and Offers
To recap, the smartphone is priced at 499 US Dollars for the 128GB model, while the 256GB version comes in at 599 US Dollars. In India, the Pixel 9a will only be available in the 256GB variant, which is priced at 49,999 INR. This makes it a bit less expensive compared to its US counterpart. Interested buyers can purchase this device through Flipkart. Additionally, Google is providing a limited-time cashback offer of 3,000 INR and also 24 months of no-cost EMI options with select banks.
Features and Specifications
The Pixel 9a boasts a 6.3-inch OLED display, featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and FHD+ resolution. It is powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset, along with the Titan M2 security chip. Out of the box, the device runs on Android 15 OS, promising 7 years of guaranteed OS updates. The back of the smartphone has a dual-camera setup with a 48MP main and a 48MP ultra-wide lens, while the front features a 13MP camera for selfies. A robust 5,100mAh battery supports the device, which allows for 23W wired fast charging and 7.5W wireless charging capabilities.
Tags: Google Pixel 9a, Google Tensor G4, Pixel 9a India Launch
March 29, 2025
Xiaomi’s Smart Gas Water Heater: Quiet, Affordable, and Efficient
Key Takeaways
1. Consistent Hot Water Supply: The S10 maintains water temperature within ±0.3°C, even with multiple taps in use, thanks to its dual-drive servo system.
2. Advanced Temperature Control: Features a custom algorithm and high-performance chip that allows switching between 13L and 16L modes for varying hot water needs.
3. High Efficiency and Durability: Utilizes a stainless steel heat exchanger for improved corrosion resistance and achieves thermal efficiency of up to 90%.
4. Quiet Operation: Complies with high noise standards, operating around 45dB, with features like a low-noise DC fan and sound-dampening materials.
5. Smart Integration and Safety Features: Integrates with Xiaomi’s HyperOS, controllable via the Mi Home app, and includes multiple safety features like flame-out protection and overheat shutdown.
Xiaomi has broadened its smart home range by launching the Mijia Smart Constant Temperature Gas Water Heater 16L S10, which is available tonight for 1299 yuan (about $180). Let’s take a look at some of its main features.
Key Features of the S10
The S10 is designed with a dual-drive servo system that automatically adjusts the water flow according to the temperatures at the inlet and outlet, providing a consistent hot water supply. It maintains the water temperature within a precise ±0.3°C of your desired setting, even when several taps are in use at the same time.
Advanced Temperature Control
This model is outfitted with a custom temperature control algorithm powered by a high-performance chip, which balances gas and water flow in real time. Users have the option to switch between 13L and 16L modes, making it adaptable for homes with different hot water requirements.
High Efficiency and Durability
Internally, the S10 includes a stainless steel heat exchanger that is usually reserved for industrial-grade appliances. It boasts three times the corrosion resistance compared to traditional copper models and achieves thermal efficiency of up to 90%, thanks to an improved fin and tube design.
Quiet Operation
When it comes to noise, the S10 complies with China’s highest standards for quiet operation. It is equipped with a low-noise DC fan, a dual-sealed combustion chamber, sound-dampening materials, and optimized airflow, all of which contribute to keeping noise levels at approximately 45dB.
Smart Integration
As a smart appliance, it seamlessly fits into Xiaomi’s HyperOS ecosystem and can be controlled via the Mi Home app. Users can select different heating modes, including presets for baths for children, kitchen needs, and pet washing. It also features built-in Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) and Bluetooth 4.2 for versatile connectivity.
Safety Features
The S10 includes many crucial safety features, such as flame-out protection, overheat shutdown, anti-freeze detection, surge protection, and an automatic cut-off if temperatures go beyond 85°C. It can handle a broad range of water pressures (0.02MPa to 0.85MPa) and utilizes a forced exhaust system to safely vent gases.
Compact Design
Despite its advanced features, the unit has a sleek and minimalist design. It weighs only 10kg and measures 530×360×180mm, making it about 15% more compact than the previous model, which is perfect for smaller homes that value performance without taking up too much space.
Tags: Mijia Smart Water Heater S10, Smart Home Devices, Xiaomi
March 29, 2025
Oppo K13 Pro Launching Soon: Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 & Dimensity 8400
Key Takeaways
1. The Oppo K13 series includes three models: K13, K13 Pro, and K13x, with specifications leaked before the official launch.
2. The K13x features a Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 SoC, a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, and a 7,000mAh battery supporting 80W fast charging.
3. The camera setup for K13x includes a dual rear camera (50MP + 2MP) and a 16MP front camera, along with features like an IR blaster and in-display fingerprint sensor.
4. The standard Oppo K13 is expected to use the Dimensity 8400, while the K13 Pro will be powered by Snapdragon 8s Gen 4.
5. The Oppo K13 series aims to compete with devices like the Redmi Turbo 4 and iQOO Z10 Turbo in China, but global release details remain unclear.
The Oppo K13 series is gearing up for launch in China shortly. Before any official announcement, the specifications for the Oppo K13, K13 Pro, and K13x have been disclosed through a Chinese certification. Here’s what we know at this point.
Oppo K13 Pro, K13, & K13x Details
Recent information surfaced from a Weibo leak from Experience more, confirming specs for the K13x, K13, and K13 Pro. The K13x is anticipated to come with a Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 SoC. This version may also have a 6.67-inch AMOLED display that boasts an FHD+ resolution and a high refresh rate. Moreover, it will be powered by a substantial 7,000mAh battery that supports 80W wired fast charging.
Camera and Features
For the camera setup, the rear will have a dual camera arrangement consisting of a 50MP + 2MP configuration, while the front will feature a 16MP selfie camera. Additional highlights include an IR blaster, an in-display fingerprint sensor, and a slim body measuring 8.45mm that weighs 208 grams. Meanwhile, the standard Oppo K13 is likely to use the Dimensity 8400, whereas the K13 Pro is expected to be equipped with the new Snapdragon 8s Gen 4.
Competition and Availability
As per the leak, the Oppo K13 and K13 Pro are designed to compete with the Redmi Turbo 4 and iQOO Z10 Turbo within the Chinese market. Although the launch in China seems imminent, the global release, particularly in regions like India, remains uncertain. This is the latest information we have, so stay tuned for updates. Earlier, we discussed what to expect from the Oppo K13 series a few months ago, which you can check out by clicking here.
Tags: Oppo K13, Oppo K13 Pro, Snapdragon 6 Gen 4
March 29, 2025
AOC Launches 27-Inch 200Hz Fast IPS Gaming Monitor Under $160
Key Takeaways
1. The AOC Q27G3H monitor features a 27-inch 2K QHD resolution (2560 x 1440) and an overclocked refresh rate of 200Hz, ideal for gaming and content creation.
2. It uses a Fast IPS panel with a 1ms GtG response time and 0.3ms MPRT, reducing motion blur and providing broad viewing angles and accurate colors.
3. The monitor is HDR400 certified, supports 10-bit color, and covers 99% of the sRGB and 95% of the DCI-P3 color spaces, ensuring high color accuracy for tasks like video editing.
4. Ergonomically designed, it has an adjustable stand for tilt, swivel, height, and pivot, plus VESA wall mounting support.
5. Connectivity options include HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and a 3.5mm audio jack, along with gamer-friendly features like Game Color tuning and low input lag mode.
AOC has launched its latest 27-inch Q27G3H gaming monitor in China, striking an impressive harmony of performance and price. The monitor retails for 1,149 yuan ($158) and is currently up for grabs on JD.com. Let’s dive into its essential features.
Specifications of AOC Q27G3H Monitor
This monitor boasts a 2K QHD resolution (2560 x 1440) along with an overclocked refresh rate of 200Hz, providing smooth and quick visuals that are perfect for gaming and creating content.
The Q27G3H utilizes a Fast IPS panel, which gives it broad viewing angles and precise color accuracy. It has a 1ms GtG response time and an impressively low 0.3ms MPRT, which minimizes motion blur during rapid scenes. Moreover, it is equipped with Adaptive Sync and is compatible with AMD FreeSync, ensuring a tear-free gaming experience.
Eye Comfort and Color Accuracy
The panel holds an HDR400 certification and offers support for 10-bit color (8-bit + FRC), enabling it to display an astonishing 10.7 billion colors. It covers 99% of the sRGB and 95% of the DCI-P3 color spaces, and it comes factory-calibrated for color accuracy (ΔE<2), which is suitable for tasks that require precise color, like video editing and photography.
To enhance eye comfort, the Q27G3H includes DC dimming and a TÜV-certified low blue light panel. It also has various blue light modes designed for specific activities such as watching media, reading, and working in an office setting.
Ergonomics and Connectivity
Regarding ergonomics, the monitor features an entirely adjustable stand that allows for tilt (-5° to 23°), swivel (-30° to 30°), height adjustment (up to 130mm), and pivot rotation (-90° to 90°). Additionally, it supports VESA wall mounting with a 100 x 100 mm pattern.
When it comes to connectivity, the monitor includes HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and a 3.5mm audio jack, making it a versatile option for both PC and console gamers. It also includes gamer-friendly features like Game Color tuning, a low input lag mode, dark field control, and an on-screen crosshair that improves precision in first-person shooter games.
Asus has recently unveiled a 31.5-inch 4K QD-OLED monitor that features a 240Hz refresh rate along with Thunderbolt 4 support. At the same time, Dell has released new 27-inch 4K monitors that come with a 120Hz refresh rate, 99% sRGB coverage, FreeSync Premium, and USB-C connectivity with 65W power delivery.
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Tags: 2K QHD, AOC Q27G3H, Gaming Monitor
March 29, 2025
Xgimi Unveils 70-Inch Portable Outdoor Theater Screen
Key Takeaways
– Xgimi has launched a new 70-inch Portable Outdoor Screen priced at $99, designed for easy travel and spontaneous movie nights.
– The screen is lightweight (3.3 pounds) and folds to a compact size of 18 inches, making it backpack-friendly and easy to set up.
– It features a durable aluminum alloy frame that is waterproof and rust-resistant, along with wrinkle-free, washable fabric.
– The launch includes the MoGo 3 Pro Portable Collection, which offers a complete outdoor viewing package with a projector and necessary accessories for $549.
– Xgimi is also introducing two new portable projectors, the Play 6 and Play 6e, featuring compact designs, native 1080p resolution, and smart features, set to release globally under the MoGo brand.
Xgimi is broadening its range of portable projectors with the introduction of a new Portable Outdoor Screen. This lightweight 70-inch screen is perfect for spontaneous movie nights outside. The screen is priced at $99 and is currently available on Xgimi.com and Amazon, making it a great match for the company’s newest portable projector, the MoGo 3 Pro.
Enjoy Big Screen Fun Anywhere
Weighing only 3.3 pounds and folding down to a backpack-friendly size of 18 inches, this screen is designed for easy travel. It comes with a handy storage bag and an elastic cord setup system that lets you go from packed to projected in less than a minute. Setting it up is super simple—ideal for anyone who has struggled with a saggy sheet or a tripod screen before.
Built to Last
Xgimi’s design focuses not only on convenience but also on durability. The aluminum alloy frame is waterproof and rust-resistant, ensuring it can handle unexpected rain or an enthusiastic campsite setup. The screen is made from wrinkle-free, washable fabric, and comes with four ground stakes that provide stability on uneven terrains like grass or sand.
Complete Outdoor Theater Package
This launch is part of a larger rollout. Xgimi is also introducing the MoGo 3 Pro Portable Collection, a $549 package that contains the projector, carrying case, power base stand, optical filter, power adapter, and USB-C cable—everything required for a complete outdoor viewing experience.
The MoGo 3 Pro (check out our full review) is impressive with licensed Netflix on Google TV, 450 ISO Lumens brightness, and Full HD projection capabilities up to 200 inches. It’s compact like a coffee cup, has a built-in stand, and features ISA 2.0 for easy auto-focus and keystone correction. Despite its small size, it produces excellent sound and brightness—perfect for movie nights in nature or just in your backyard.
New Projectors on the Horizon
Xgimi’s branch in China has introduced two new portable projectors—the Play 6 and Play 6e. Both models have a compact design, a 360-degree gimbal, and native 1080p resolution. The Play 6 features a built-in 20,000mAh battery and Harman Kardon speakers, priced at 2,099 yuan ($290), while the Play 6e is battery-free but more budget-friendly at 1,799 yuan ($250). Both support smart features such as auto keystone, autofocus, and wireless casting, running on GMUI 6.0. They are expected to be released globally under the MoGo brand later this year.
Source:
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Tags: MoGo 3 Pro, Portable Outdoor Screen, XGIMI
March 29, 2025
Model Y HW3 vs HW4 Crash Test: Why Tesla Upgrades FSD Computers
Key Takeaways
1. Mark Rober’s test showed Tesla’s Autopilot performance negatively compared to a Lexus with LiDAR, but inconsistencies led to further independent testing.
2. The 2022 Model Y with Hardware 3.0 failed to detect a fake wall, while the 2024 Model Y with Hardware 4.0 successfully stopped before the obstacle.
3. A similar successful test was performed with the Cybertruck, also equipped with Hardware 4.0.
4. Tesla plans to begin unsupervised FSD testing in Austin, Texas, starting in June, with necessary permits obtained.
5. Tesla is considering a retrofit program for older vehicles with Hardware 3.0 if unsupervised FSD cannot be successfully implemented on those models.
Recently, a test by Mark Rober compared a Tesla using Autopilot with a Lexus autonomous driving system, which is renowned for its use of LiDAR. This test didn’t show Tesla’s camera-only approach in a good light.
Inconsistent Results
However, Rober’s setup had so many inconsistencies that a group of independent testers decided to put a Tesla through similar tests to see if they could confirm or counter his findings. In a recent round of testing, a Model Y equipped with the new Hardware 4.0 FSD was tested against an older Model Y that had the Hardware 3.0 version, which is still much more common on roads in the US.
Different Models, Different Outcomes
The 2022 Model Y was fitted with the HW3 package and used the latest version of Tesla’s FSD software designed for that hardware, while the 2024 Model Y had the upgraded HW4, also referred to as AI4 by Tesla. The HW3 Model Y did indeed fail the test; it didn’t detect the wall that was painted to look like a road and drove straight through it. The testers ran the test twice, having to brake manually, and once allowed the 2022 Model Y to crash through the fake wall while in FSD mode.
The 2024 Model Y, equipped with the HW4’s high-resolution cameras and a new FSD computer, successfully detected the fake wall every time and stopped the vehicle before it reached the obstacle while in self-driving mode. A similar test was performed with the Cybertruck, which also has the HW4 setup, and it too did not collide with the wall.
Upcoming Unsupervised Testing
Tesla is getting ready to test its unsupervised FSD mode, which won’t need a driver to be present or paying attention, starting this June in Austin, Texas. The autonomous driving team recently announced that they obtained the necessary permit for pilot program testing by showing city officials in a Cybercab.
“Thanks to Austin City & Texas DOT for hosting & supporting our efforts to unlock safe & low-cost premium point-to-point electric transport,” the team stated, confirming that the June launch for unsupervised FSD is on track. However, Tesla hasn’t yet figured out how to make the newest FSD version work on older vehicles with the HW3 setup, and it may also struggle to implement unsupervised FSD successfully on those models. Elon Musk promised that if that happens, Tesla will upgrade HW4 computers into eligible HW3 vehicles at their own expense.
The Wile E. Coyote wall test indicates that a HW3 computer retrofit program may become necessary in the future along the fake painted road.
Source:
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Tags: FSD, Model Y, Tesla
March 29, 2025
Lidl Launches New Crivit Urban E-Bikes with Carbon Belt Technology
Key Takeaways
1. Lidl has launched Crivit X.3 and Y.3 urban e-bikes in European countries, designed for city riding and commuting.
2. The X.3 models have a stepover frame for taller riders, while Y.3 models feature a step-through design for shorter riders.
3. All models are equipped with a Mivice M080 motor, offering 250 W power and a range of 100 km on a 355 Wh battery.
4. Current promotional prices for the e-bikes range from €1,299 to €1,399, depending on the model and region.
5. E-bikes come with features like hydraulic disc brakes, a luggage rack, and smartphone accessories, weighing between 23-24 kg.
Lidl has just introduced a new series of Crivit X.3 and Y.3 urban e-bikes across European nations such as the Netherlands, France, and Germany. These bikes are made for city riding, commuting, or doing errands.
Variations in the Models
The four Crivit e-bikes show some distinctions. The X.3 and Y.3 belt versions come with a Gates SideTrack carbon belt, which is claimed to be long-lasting and requires no maintenance. The other two models have a Shimano Cues U4000 9-speed derailleur. The X.3 bikes feature a stepover frame, suitable for riders between 170 to 195 cm (around 5’7″ to 6’5″) tall, while the Y.3 models are step-through, recommended for those standing 160 to 190 cm (approximately 5’3″ to 6’3″) tall.
Power and Features
All of the models are fitted with a Mivice M080 motor located at the rear, offering 250 W power and 40 Nm torque. This setup allows for assistance at speeds reaching up to 25 kph (about 16 mph), providing three different modes along with a 20-second boost option. The 355 Wh battery is expected to offer an assistance range of 100 km (around 60 miles); it can be taken out for charging, with a full charge taking around 3.5 hours. Additional features include Schwalbe Big Ben 27.5″ tires and Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes. Plus, there are accessories like a headlight, tail light, a rear luggage rack, an SP Connect smartphone holder, and a Fidlock “Bike Base” magnetic mount (currently priced at $14.89 on Amazon). Customers can select from various frame colors, with the bikes weighing between 23-24 kg (roughly 51-53 lbs).
Pricing and Availability
Right now, you can purchase the Crivit Belt Drive X.3 and Y.3 e-bikes for a special price of €1,299 in both the Netherlands and France, where they usually cost around €1,499-€1,599. The Shimano X.3 and Y.3 e-bikes are pricier in these regions, with a recommended retail price of €1,599-€1,699; however, they are currently marked down to €1,399. It’s uncertain how long these discounts will remain in effect. In Germany, the belt drive versions are listed at €1,699, while the Shimano models are available for €1,799.
Lidl (FR, NL, DE)
Source:
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Tags: Crivit X.3, Crivit Y.3, Lidl e-bikes
March 29, 2025
Garmin Fenix 8 Beta Update Enhances Maps and Features
Key Takeaways
1. Beta version 15.17 for Garmin smartwatches includes support for Breathing Variations.
2. Golf notifications now activate the display for an improved user experience.
3. The size of directional arrows on maps has been enhanced.
4. Music Player page layout has been refined for better usability.
5. The update disables ECG and Dive features on the Fenix 8 smartwatch.
Another update for the Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Fenix E and Enduro 3 smartwatches has been released. This beta version 15.17 was announced just a day after the previous version 15.16, marking the first update in the 15.xx testing series. The earlier version introduced 66 changes, including the addition of a new Rucking activity and improvements to the Morning Report feature.
New Features and Enhancements
The change log for beta version 15.17 indicates that the Fenix 8 and its related models now accommodate Breathing Variations. Additionally, golf notifications will now activate the display, which Garmin believes enhances the user experience. The size of the directional arrows on the maps has been improved, and the layout of the Music Player page, which appears when users are controlling music from their phones, has been fine-tuned. Furthermore, a bug affecting the Map page when users might have been low on memory has been fixed.
Important Notes on Beta Updates
As is typical with beta releases, version 15.17 disables the ECG and Dive features for the Fenix 8 smartwatch (47 mm AMOLED Slate Gray version is curr. $940.58 on Amazon). Users can access this update on their watch by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for Updates. It’s still uncertain when a stable version of this update will be rolled out to all users.
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Tags: Beta Update 15.17, Garmin Fenix 8, Smartwatch Features
March 29, 2025
Samsung’s Unique Foldable Smartphone Design Approved in the US
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung Display often showcases innovative concepts at major events like CES and MWC, but many do not reach mass production.
2. The company hinted at new foldable screens supporting the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold6 and its initial consumer tri-fold.
3. Samsung Display received design approval for a new foldable device that can fold both inward and outward, combining features from existing foldables.
4. The latest design differs from the previous Flex In N Out concept presented in 2023, featuring an exposed screen area beneath a triple camera setup.
5. While the new design’s mass production is uncertain, there is potential for a working model to be showcased at future trade shows.
Samsung Display, which is part of Samsung Electronics, frequently showcases ideas at events like the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and the Mobile World Congress (MWC). For example, at MWC 2025, they displayed several new innovations, such as the Flex Gaming and the Flexible Briefcase.
Concept vs. Reality
Usually, these ideas remain just that and don’t make it to mass production. However, it appears that Samsung Display also hinted at foldable screens that will support Samsung’s initial consumer tri-fold and the next version of the Galaxy Z Fold6 (currently priced at $1,099 – renewed on Amazon).
New Foldable Form Factor
Recently, the company has gotten design approval from the United States Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) for a completely new foldable design. According to the patent sketches below, this design allows the screen to fold both inward and outward, unlike current consumer foldables that only fold one way. This means the concept merges features of the Galaxy Z Fold with those of the Huawei Mate Xs or Mate Xs 2 into a single device.
A Shift in Design
The patented design is different from the Flex In N Out that Samsung Display presented at CES 2023, which was over two years ago. To summarize, the Flex In N Out appeared like a standard foldable that could fold both ways. In contrast, Samsung Display’s latest idea leaves part of its screen exposed beneath a theoretical triple camera setup. While the likelihood of this design becoming a reality is low, there is a possibility that Samsung Display could showcase a working model at a future trade show, similar to how they did this year with the Flex Gaming.
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Tags: Galaxy Z Fold, MWC 2025, Samsung Display
March 29, 2025
Scientists Develop Real-Life Liquid Robot Inspired by T-1000
Key Takeaways
1. Researchers from Seoul National University developed a robot that moves and changes shape like a smart liquid, called the particle-armored liquid robot.
2. The robot consists of frozen water coated with Teflon particles, giving it a hydrophobic surface and strong shell even when it melts.
3. It can travel on solid ground and water, fit through narrow gaps, pick up objects, and combine with other liquid robots while maintaining stability.
4. The technology has potential applications in medicine for drug delivery and in industries for accessing hard-to-reach areas.
5. Current challenges include miniaturization and reliability, with practical use expected in 7 to 10 years.
A research group at Seoul National University has created a robot that moves and changes shape like a smart liquid. This innovative particle-armored liquid robot is very flexible, able to split and combine, and it strongly resembles the famous T-1000 from Terminator 2. But this isn’t just a fantasy – it’s a real invention.
Robot Design and Functionality
The main part of the robot consists of water that has been frozen into ice, which is then covered with PTFE particles, often known as Teflon. This layer of particles gives the surface a hydrophobic quality and creates a sturdy shell that remains whole even after the ice turns back to liquid. The robot operates without any direct touch, powered by ultrasonic waves. The force from these waves, along with friction from the surface, allows for precise movement control. To navigate the robot accurately, the researchers created a mathematical framework that closely forecasts its speed and actions. You can see a sneak peek in the video below:
Performance in Testing
During laboratory experiments, the robot demonstrated its ability to glide over solid surfaces and water, squeeze through narrow gaps, lift objects, and even merge with other liquid robots. It remains stable even when facing vibrations, setting it apart from older ideas like liquid marbles, which are droplets covered with particles that act like solid shapes but are much more fragile and difficult to manage.
Future Applications
In the future, this technology could be applied in medicine for precise drug delivery or in industries to access hard-to-reach micro-areas. Possible scenarios might involve autonomous mini-robots exhibiting cell-like behaviors, controlled by magnetic fields or electric signals.
The research team, directed by Professors Ho-Young Kim, Hyobin Jeon, Keunhwan Park, and Jeong-Yun Sun, states that the robot is still under development. Currently, it is operated from outside, and significant challenges such as miniaturization, material options, and reliability in actual environments are yet to be tackled. Realistic estimates indicate that prototypes aimed at specific applications might become available in 3 to 5 years, with potential practical use anticipated in 7 to 10 years.
Source:
Link
Tags: autonomous mini-robots, Particle-armored liquid robot, Teflon