“Elon Musk’s brain-computer interface company, Neuralink Corp., said it is starting to test a technology that could allow paralyzed people to control a robotic arm. The early-stage study is known as a first-in-human trial, meaning that any approved device is years away. The goal is to let patients use a Neuralink device, implanted in the brain, to manipulate a robotic arm. “This is an important first step towards restoring not only digital freedom, but also physical freedom,” the company said in a post on X, adding that the trial is called Convoy. Neuralink’s current device allows patients to control computer cursors, iPads and similar digital tools. It is implanted in at least two humans.” (Bloomberg)

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Robotics startup Figure released a video update showcasing their Figure 02 humanoid robot autonomously performing tasks at HQ for a BMW use case. The BMW Group is exploring the use of humanoid robots in production at its Group Plant Spartanburg. Earlier this year, Figure successfully completed a trial run that lasted several weeks and saw robot performing a wide variety of tasks including inserting sheet metal parts into specific fixtures, which were then assembled as part of the chassis. The robot must be particularly dexterous to complete this production step. (via TechCrunch)

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