Technology

Industrial exoskeletons help workers do more with less strain

Published

19 hours ago

April 4, 2026

Industrial exoskeletons help workers do more with less strain

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If you have ever spent a full day lifting, drilling overhead, or bending over a conveyor belt, you know how quickly fatigue sets in. That is exactly where industrial exoskeletons come in.

These wearable systems strap onto the body and help carry the load. Instead of your muscles doing all the work, the device shares it. As a result, workers feel less strain and can stay productive longer. This tech is already showing up on real job sites across the country.

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WEARABLE ROBOTICS ARE CHANGING HOW WE WALK AND RUN

A worker uses the Laevo FLEX exoskeleton to support the lower back during repetitive lifting and bending tasks. (Laevo)

What are industrial exoskeletons?

Industrial exoskeletons are wearable mechanical systems designed to support your body during physical tasks. They do not replace workers. They help workers perform demanding jobs with less physical stress. There are three main types, and each works differently depending on the job.

Passive exoskeletons: simple support that works

Passive systems do not use motors or batteries. Instead, they rely on springs or mechanical structures to redistribute weight.

A strong real-world example is the Hilti EXO-O1. This shoulder harness shifts the weight of your arms to your hips using spring-loaded supports. Testing shows it can reduce shoulder muscle load by up to 47% during overhead work. Many workers say tools feel almost weightless by the end of the day.

Another example is the Laevo FLEX. This passive system uses spring-based assistance to support the lower back during bending and lifting. It is designed for dynamic movement, allowing workers to walk freely and lift without needing to switch the system on or off.

Laevo FLEX also offers adjustable support and is built for long wear across different environments, including outdoor use. Like other passive systems, it helps reduce strain on the lower back during repetitive tasks without adding motors or batteries.

These systems are relatively lightweight, typically between about 4.4 and 8.8 pounds. However, support remains constant during use, so it cannot adapt automatically to different tasks in real time.

Passive Hilti EXO-O1 exoskeleton to help relieve strain on shoulders and arms during overhead installation work. (HILTI)

Powered exoskeletons: high-tech strength on demand

Powered exoskeletons use motors, sensors, and onboard processors to actively assist movement. An example is the German Bionic Exia. This battery-powered back exoskeleton is designed for warehouse and logistics work, where employees lift and move items throughout the day. It actively supports the lower back during lifts, helping reduce strain and fatigue over time.

These systems track your motion using sensors and respond almost instantly. Many can detect lifting movements in real time and provide support as you move, so the assistance feels natural instead of delayed.

Powered exoskeletons can significantly reduce the effort required for repetitive lifting tasks, especially in high-volume environments.

However, there are trade-offs. Some powered systems are heavier and can weigh over 40 pounds, depending on the design. They are also far more expensive, often costing tens of thousands of dollars, so most companies introduce them through pilot programs.

NEW EXOSKELETON ADAPTS TO TERRAIN WITH SMART AI POWER

German Bionic’s powered exoskeleton Exia provides real-time support to ease physical strain on the job. (German Bionic)

Soft exosuits: flexible and lightweight

Soft exosuits use fabric, straps and tension systems instead of rigid frames. One example is the HeroWear Apex 2. This lightweight system weighs about three pounds and wraps around the shoulders and waist to assist with lifting movements.

In warehouse testing, soft back-support exosuits have been shown to improve productivity while reducing reported lower back discomfort for workers performing repetitive tasks.

These systems allow more natural movement than rigid exoskeletons. However, they provide less force, so they are best suited for repetitive tasks rather than heavy lifting.

Workers use the HeroWear Apex 2 exosuit to reduce back strain during repetitive lifting and bending tasks. (HeroWear)

Where exoskeletons make the biggest impact

The biggest benefits show up in everyday tasks that put the most strain on your body.

Overhead work becomes manageable

Holding tools above your head all day strains your shoulders and neck. Systems like the Hilti EXO-O1 can reduce muscle load by up to about 47%, making tools feel much lighter.

Heavy lifting gets safer

Back-support systems like the Laevo FLEX shift part of the load away from the spine. Studies show muscle effort can drop by up to 30% during lifting.

Repetitive bending adds up less

Soft systems like the HeroWear Apex 2 help reduce fatigue during constant bending. Workers complete more tasks while feeling less strain by the end of a shift.

The trade-offs you should know

Exoskeletons offer real benefits, but they are not perfect. Fit is critical. If a device does not align properly with your body, it can cause discomfort or limit movement. Proper fitting and training are essential. Weight also matters. Even lightweight systems add extra load. Powered systems can weigh more than 40 pounds.

Cost remains a barrier for many companies. Passive systems may cost a few thousand dollars, while powered systems can cost tens of thousands. There is also a long-term consideration. Relying too heavily on assistance could reduce muscle engagement over time. Experts recommend using exoskeletons alongside proper ergonomics and regular movement.

What this means for you

If your job involves physical labor, this technology could change your daily experience. You may feel less sore at the end of a shift. You may reduce your risk of injury over time. You may even be able to work longer without the same level of fatigue.

For employers, the benefits are clear. Fewer injuries, fewer missed workdays, and more consistent productivity. Adoption is still growing, so many workplaces are testing these systems before rolling them out more broadly.

Where can you buy industrial exoskeletons?

You might be wondering if you can order one of these like any other piece of gear. In most cases, you cannot. Most industrial exoskeletons are sold directly to companies, not individuals. Manufacturers typically work with employers through pilot programs or bulk orders. That means you will not usually find these on standard retail sites.

Some lighter systems, especially passive or soft exosuits, are easier to access. Even then, many brands still prefer to sell through business channels or approved partners.

If you are interested, start with the manufacturer’s website. Look for options like “request a demo” or “contact sales.” This is often the first step before any purchase. For now, access depends on where you work. As adoption grows, that could change. More companies are testing these systems, which may eventually make them easier to get.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Industrial exoskeletons are moving quickly from early trials to real-world use. They are not replacing human workers. They are helping people work smarter and safer. As the technology improves, expect lighter designs, better comfort, and more intelligent assistance. This shift could redefine what physically demanding work looks like in the years ahead.

If your employer offered you an exoskeleton tomorrow, would you wear it on the job or would you hesitate? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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Technology

Buy two Nintendo Switch games, get $30 off at Target

Published

7 hours ago

April 5, 2026

Press Room

Buy two Nintendo Switch games, get off at Target

Target is offering a great deal to some Target Circle members that knocks $30 off the cost of two Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 games. The sale is happening for the rest of the day, expiring at 2:59AM ET on April 5th. If you sign in with the free-to-join membership, you might be able to add two eligible games to your cart, then watch the prices fall at checkout.

There are 224 eligible games (some physical, some digital), and many of Nintendo’s biggest hits from the past year and beyond are here, including Switch 2-exclusive games like Donkey Kong Bananza, Kirby Air Riders, Mario Kart World, Mario Tennis Fever, and more (I didn’t see Pokémon Pokopia in the list, though).

This deal is worth hopping on whether you intend to gift these games, or just get them for yourself. Discounts on Nintendo-published games are rare, and it’s quite a nice perk that Target Circle members have in getting to choose the games they want to save on.

While each of the games that I mentioned ship on cartridges that don’t require a bunch of your console’s internal storage (just enough for save data), there are some Switch 2 games that ship on Game Key Cards. Those cartridges, once inserted into the console, simply grant you the ability to download a copy from the Nintendo eShop onto your console. Game sizes varies, but you may want to pick up a microSD Express card to add more storage on top of the Switch 2’s 256GB built-in SSD. This 256GB Samsung model is $59 at Amazon.

Technology

How to opt out of AI data collection in popular apps

Published

7 hours ago

April 5, 2026

Press Room

How to opt out of AI data collection in popular apps

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Every time you ask ChatGPT a question, say “Hey Siri” or let Google finish your sentence, something else may happen in the background. In many cases, you are helping train the AI that responds to you.

Most people do not realize this. However, many AI platforms use conversations to improve their systems. As a result, your questions, your voice and your habits can be stored and reused by some of the world’s largest tech companies.

That said, you are not stuck with these settings. You can turn off much of this data collection if you know where to look. Even better, it only takes about 15 minutes across the major platforms. Here is exactly how.

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5 SIMPLE TECH TIPS TO TAKE BACK CONTROL OF YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA

What AI apps are quietly collecting about you

AI assistants are designed to feel like a private conversation. But, depending on the platform, what’s collected often goes well beyond what you typed or said:

Full conversation transcripts
Voice recordings and audio clips
Location data and device identifiers
Browsing habits and search history
Names, routines and personal details you mention in passing
App usage patterns across your devices.

Almost none of this is turned off by default. You have to go find the switch yourself.

Think about what you’ve actually shared lately

Here’s a quick thought experiment. In the last month, have you asked an AI assistant about:

A health symptom you were worried about?
A financial decision you were weighing?
A family situation you needed advice on?
Your child’s schedule, school or activities?

Each detail seems harmless on its own. But, together, they create a surprisingly detailed picture of your life, one that could be stored indefinitely, reviewed by human contractors or exposed in a data breach.

In 2023, Samsung engineers accidentally leaked sensitive internal code by pasting it into ChatGPT. Most people don’t have an IT department watching out for them. But everyone can take a few minutes to adjust their settings.

How to opt out platform by platform

This doesn’t mean you should stop using AI tools. They can be incredibly useful. But it’s worth understanding what’s being collected and what you can turn off right now.

1) ChatGPT (OpenAI)

By default, your conversations may be used to help improve AI models, but you can turn this off at any time.

To turn this off:

Open ChatGPT
Tap or click your profile icon
Select Settings
Go to Data Controls
Toggle off “Improve the model for everyone”

You can also go to Settings > Data Controls > Export data to download everything OpenAI has stored, or select Delete all chats to wipe your history. Note that even with training off, OpenAI retains conversations for up to 30 days for safety monitoring.

Turning off “Improve the model for everyone” stops your ChatGPT conversations from being used for training. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

2) Google (Gemini & AI features)

Google’s AI tools, including Gemini and Search’s AI Overviews, are tied to your Google account activity.

To manage this:

Go to myactivity.google.com
Select Web & App Activity and turn it off, or set auto-delete to three months
Separately, visit gemini.google.com > Settings > Gemini Apps Activity and toggle it off

Keep in mind that disabling activity tracking may affect personalization across Gmail, Maps and other Google services.

DATA BROKERS ACCUSED OF HIDING OPT-OUT PAGES FROM GOOGLE

Google’s Gemini activity settings show how your AI interactions may still be stored unless you delete them. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

3) Microsoft Copilot

Copilot is built into Windows, Microsoft 365 and Edge, so it can access a wide range of your documents and activity.

To adjust your settings:

Go to account.microsoft.com/privacy and sign in
Click Privacy in the left-hand menu
Scroll to App and service activity and review your recent activity
Click Clear all activities or remove individual items
Scroll down to App and service performance data, and clear that data if available
Scroll further and select Copilot, then tap Manage data from Microsoft Copilot to review or delete your data

In Windows 11: Settings > Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & Feedback and turn off Optional diagnostic data

Microsoft does not offer one single switch that turns off all Copilot data collection, so you need to review settings in multiple places. Enterprise users should check with an IT administrator since organizational settings may also apply.

Microsoft’s privacy dashboard lets you review and clear app and service activity tied to your account. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

4) Amazon Alexa

Alexa stores voice recordings by default, and, in some cases, Amazon may have human reviewers listen to those recordings as part of its quality review process.

To turn off voice recording use:

Open the Alexa app
Tap More (upper left, three lines)
Tap Alexa Privacy
Scroll down and select Manage Your Alexa Data
Tap Help Improve Alexa and turn off Use Voice Recordings
Confirm your decision by tapping Turn off

To stop Alexa from keeping your recordings:

Open the Alexa app
Tap More (upper left, three lines)
Tap Alexa Privacy
Scroll down and select Manage Your Alexa Data
Tap Voice Recordings and Transcripts
Select Don’t retain

In the Alexa app, turning off voice recording use prevents Amazon from using your recordings to improve services. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

5) Apple Siri

Apple is generally more privacy-focused than other platforms, but Siri still collects data to improve its performance.

To limit Siri data collection:

Go to Settings
Tap Privacy & Security
Tap Analytics & Improvements
Turn off Share iPhone & Apple Watch Analytics
Scroll down and turn off Improve Siri & Dictation

To delete your existing Siri history:

Go to Settings, Tap Siri or Apple Intelligence & Siri Tap Siri & Dictation History Tap Delete Siri & Dictation History

Disabling analytics on iPhone limits how Apple collects data to improve Siri and other features. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why AI privacy settings are only part of the solution

Adjusting these settings is an important step. But it only controls what these apps collect directly going forward. It doesn’t address the hundreds of websites that may already be publishing your personal information online, right now, without your knowledge.

Data brokers are still collecting your information

Data brokers do not need your AI chat history. Instead, they pull information from public records, marketing lists and people search databases. They also refresh these profiles constantly, which keeps your data active and easy to find.

As a result, your name, address, phone number and family members may already appear on dozens of sites you have never heard of. Unlike AI apps, these sites do not offer a single settings menu to turn this off.

While you can remove your data manually, the process takes hours and often requires repeated requests when your information gets reposted. In many cases, you need to revisit these sites regularly to keep your information from reappearing.

The goal is simple: make it much harder for strangers, scammers and cybercriminals to find your personal information online.

While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.

Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com

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Kurt’s Key Takeaways

Spending just 15 minutes adjusting your AI privacy settings is one of the most effective steps you can take to protect your digital privacy right now. Most major platforms, including OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, Amazon and Apple, collect data by default. However, you can opt out, even though companies often bury these settings deep in menus.

As a result, many people never find them. At the same time, AI assistants feel private and conversational, so you may share more personal information than you realize. Even if you turn off data collection going forward, companies do not erase what they have already stored. In addition, these settings only control what happens inside each platform. Data brokers still build separate profiles about you using information pulled from across the internet.

Because of this, privacy is not a one-time fix. Instead, you need to check your settings regularly and stay aware of what you share. The good news is you do not have to stop using AI tools. Instead, take a few minutes this week to review your settings and make sure the rest of your digital footprint is not working against you.

How much personal data are you willing to let big tech companies collect from your everyday AI use? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Technology

A folk musician became a target for AI fakes and a copyright troll

Published

19 hours ago

April 4, 2026

Press Room

A folk musician became a target for AI fakes and a copyright troll

In January, folk artist Murphy Campbell discovered several songs on her Spotify profile that did not belong there. They were songs that she had recorded, but she’d never uploaded them to Spotify, and something was off about the vocals.

She quickly surmised that someone had pulled performances of the songs she posted to YouTube, created AI covers, and uploaded them to streaming platforms under her name. I ran one of the songs, “Four Marys”, through two different AI detectors, and it seemed to support her suspicions with both saying it was probably AI-generated.

Campbell was shocked, “I was kind of under the impression that we had a little bit more checks in place before someone could just do that. But, you know, a lesson learned there,” she told The Verge. It took some time before Campbell managed to get the fake songs removed, “I became a pest,” she said. And even then, it wasn’t a complete victory. While the offending tracks don’t appear to be available on YouTube Music or Apple Music anymore, at least one can still be found on Spotify, just under a different artist profile, but with the same name. There are now multiple Murphy Campbells — “Obviously, I was thrilled by that,” the real Murphy Campbell said.

Spotify is testing a new system that would allow artists to manually approve songs before they appear on their profile, but Campbell is skeptical after being burned. “I feel like, every time, an entity that’s that large makes a promise like that to musicians. It seems to just not be what they made it out to be, but I’ll be curious to try it out in the future,” she said.

This was just the beginning of Campbell’s nightmare, however.

On the day that a Rolling Stone article was published, discussing Campbell’s brush with AI imitators, a series of videos were uploaded to YouTube through distributor Vydia. Those videos have not been posted publicly, and it’s unclear if anyone other than the uploader, who goes by Murphy Rider, has seen them. YouTube declined to comment for this story.

Those were used to claim ownership of the material in several of Murphy Campbell’s videos. Campbell received a notice from YouTube reading: “You are now sharing revenues with the copyright owners of the music detected in your video, Darling Corey.” The most confusing part, the songs at the center of these claims are all in the public domain, including the classic “In the Pines,” which dates back to at least the 1870s and has been covered by everyone from Lead Belly to Nirvana (as “Where Did You Sleep Last Night”).

Vydia has since released those claims, and spokesperson Roy LaManna says the person who uploaded the videos has been banned from their platform. Of the over 6,000,000 claims filed by Vydia through YouTube’s Content ID system, 0.02 percent were found to be invalid, which LaManna says is, “by industry standards is like amazing.” Continuing, “we pride ourselves on doing this the right way.”

LaManna also says that Vydia has no connection to Timeless IR or the AI covers that were uploaded to streaming platforms under Campbell’s name. While the timing is certainly suspicious, LaManna says the two incidents are separate.

Vydia has received a lot of blowback including, LaManna says, “literal death threats” which have led to the offices being evacuated. Campbell isn’t about to let Vydia off the hook, but notes that it’s not solely to blame. The worlds of generative AI, music distribution, and copyright are complex with multiple points of failure and opportunities for abuse. “I think it goes way deeper than we think it does,” Campbell says.

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