All articles tagged with #self repair
Researchers from Columbia University have developed minimalist, modular robots capable of 'eating' each other to self-repair, evolve, and adapt, potentially revolutionizing space exploration, disaster response, and industrial applications by enabling autonomous, self-sustaining systems in extreme environments.
Scientists at Columbia University have developed robots that can grow, repair, and improve themselves by consuming parts from other robots or their environment, inspired by biological processes, paving the way for autonomous, adaptable robotic systems.
The Humane AI Pin, the first of a new wave of AI assistant devices, has been reviewed as slow and finicky, with a voice-centric interface that falls short. Taylor Swift's music has returned to TikTok after a ten-week hiatus, but the deal does not extend to other Universal Music Group artists. X will no longer allow users to hide their blue checks, even for premium subscribers, and Apple will soon allow the use of genuine used parts for iPhone repairs, ensuring full functionality and security.
Samsung is expanding its self-repair program to include more devices and additional countries. The program, launched in partnership with iFixit, will now offer parts and repair manuals for Samsung's newest models, including foldable phones like the Galaxy Z Flip5 and Z Fold5. The program will also cover the flagship S23 models, mid-range phones like the Galaxy A05s, and tablets and laptops. The expansion will bring the repair program to 30 additional countries, totaling 43 countries where Samsung users can access self-repair options. However, it is unclear if iFixit is still involved in this expansion.
Google has introduced new features to make repairing Pixel phones easier. The Repair Mode protects user data during repairs, while comprehensive repair manuals and access to genuine Pixel parts are now available. Users can also run a diagnostic test to check their phone's functionality. Google has partnered with repair providers and enabled local repairers to ensure that over 80% of Pixel device owners are within 10-20 miles of an authorized repair center.
Microsoft is now selling replacement parts for Xbox gamepads, including buttons, sticks, covers, and more. The company is also providing downloadable instructions and tutorial videos to help gamers with self-repair. This program aims to save gamers money by allowing them to fix their broken controllers instead of buying new ones. Prices range from $24 for button sets to $60 for a circuit board and motor assembly unit. Other retailers, such as iFixit, will also be selling these replacement parts.
Researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine have discovered that hair cells in the inner ear, crucial for hearing and balance, have the ability to repair themselves after suffering damage caused by loud noises or other forms of stress. Contrary to previous beliefs that these cells are permanently lost, the study found that a protein called XIRP2 plays a key role in sensing and repairing damage to the hair-like structures of the cells. This novel insight could lead to the development of more effective strategies for preventing and treating hearing loss.
Google will offer official tools, parts, and self-repair guides for its new foldable, the Pixel Fold, through iFixit. Brave owners can try to fix hardware issues themselves by purchasing parts such as charging ports, batteries, adhesives, and the 7.6-inch inner folding display, and obtaining step-by-step guides from iFixit. While foldables are notoriously fragile, Google is the first major manufacturer to offer a self-repair program for a foldable, although owners can still mail in their device for repair or take it to a shop.
Logitech has partnered with iFixit to reduce e-waste and help customers repair their own out-of-warranty Logitech hardware by supplying spare parts, batteries, and repair guides for select products. The iFixit Logitech Repair Hub will house everything, with parts available to purchase as needed or within Fix Kits that provide everything needed to complete the repair. Starting this summer, Logitech's MX Master and MX Anywhere mouse models will be the first products to receive spare parts.