They are constantly becoming more sophisticated: Robots that recognize or simulate human emotions. What are they used for, and how do these systems work? A peek inside two research labs.

An international team led by researchers at NTU in Singapore has developed a universal connector that allows stretchable devices to be assembled easily and quickly using the Lego principle.

Robots, journeys into space, and flying cars: Which visions out of science fiction movies have become reality? The classics of the genre in a “reality check”.

Speak instead of typing – nowadays, communicating with computers often involves language bots. In his book “Dialogue Robots”, Armin Sieber analyzes the widespread dissemination of these bots. In this interview he describes the advantages – but also urges policymakers and the public to be aware of the dangers.

Swarms of bees as models for drones in construction: Empa has tested drones that work in teams under human control to 3D print materials for building or repairing structures.

Thanks to a navigation algorithm, drones are learning to autonomously perform acrobatic maneuvers. Using simulations, the autonomous aircraft are trained to become faster, more agile, and more efficient.

A new high-tech honeycomb makes it possible to study bee colonies. The hive robot developed by EPFL researchers should provide new insights into the survival of pollinators.

Every new technology potentially also entails problematic side effects. The technology assessor Armin Grunwald helps identify risks in good time. In this interview, he talks about the consequences of emotionally competent AI. And he explains which new technology will have the greatest impact on our lives.