Apple’s journey to making its own wireless chips has been a long one, but the end might be in sight. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo posted on X that Apple’s switch to its own in-house Wi-Fi / Bluetooth chips will start with the iPhone 17 in the second half of next year.

Kuo also agrees with 9to5Mac’s report that the iPhone SE 4, expected in spring of 2025, will be the first device to use Apple’s own homemade 5G modem. He says that the SE will continue using a third-party Wi-Fi chip made by Broadcom, and that the iPhone 17 will be the first device to use both an Apple-made modem and Wi-Fi chip.

The budget-friendly iPhone SE series is due for a serious upgrade, and it looks like Apple intends to add a lot more than just a new custom modem. Rumors suggest it will come with an OLED screen for the first time, Face ID, and will support Apple Intelligence. But those aren’t the only upgrades it might see: a higher price tag could be in the cards, too.

Researchers have made remarkable advancements in robotics, particularly with the introduction of a human-like robotic finger capable of performing routine medical examinations similar to those conducted by doctors.

This innovative device, developed by the University of Science and Technology of China, promises to revolutionize health care by addressing the growing shortage of trained medical professionals and alleviating patient discomfort during physical exams.

Mimicking human touch

The bioinspired soft finger (BSF) is designed to replicate the dexterity and sensitivity of human fingers. It features a unique semicircular shape and employs pneumatic networks that allow it to bend and sense pressure effectively. This robotic finger can perform essential tasks such as palpation, which is crucial for detecting abnormalities in tissues, and measuring pulse rates.

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The BSF’s design is significant because it combines bending actuation with integrated multimodal sensing. This means it can perceive various physical properties of objects through active touch, much like a human finger would. The researchers have emphasized that physical examinations are one of the most effective methods for early detection of conditions such as breast cancer, making this technology particularly valuable in clinical settings.

Image of robotic finger. (USTC)

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Addressing health care challenges

The development of the BSF is timely, given the dual challenges in health care today. On one hand, there is a notable shortage of trained physicians, which can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment for various medical conditions. On the other hand, many patients are reluctant to undergo physical examinations, especially when being examined by doctors of the opposite gender. A robotic alternative like the BSF could provide a more comfortable and accessible option for patients, potentially increasing participation in necessary medical assessments.

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Image of robotic finger. (USTC)

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How the robotic finger operates

The BSF operates through a combination of bending movements and pressure sensing. When pressurized, its air chambers expand, causing the finger to bend inward. This bending action allows the robotic finger to perform palpation on model tissues effectively. In tests, the BSF successfully identified model lumps and accurately measured pulses in human participants. The researchers noted that this robotic finger can “feel” stiffness and perform safe and precise palpation similar to that of a human doctor.

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Image of robotic finger. (USTC)

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Future implications

The implications of this technology extend beyond simple examinations. The BSF could be employed in various health care contexts, including routine checkups and remote health hcare scenarios in which a physical presence is not feasible. Additionally, it could serve as a valuable training tool for medical students, allowing them to practice their palpation skills without needing live patients.

Image of robotic finger. (USTC)

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Kurt’s key takeaways

By combining sophisticated robotics with essential diagnostic functions, this innovation not only enhances health care accessibility but also addresses critical shortages in medical personnel. As research progresses and these technologies become integrated into clinical practice, we may soon witness a future where robotic assistance plays an integral role in patient care, paving the way for a new era in health care delivery.

Would you feel comfortable undergoing a medical examination performed by a robotic finger instead of a human doctor? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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It’s a little too late to spook trick-or-treaters with ghastly remote greetings, but there are plenty of other reasons to consider installing a video doorbell. For starters, it’s incredibly affordable and easy to do so when you have devices like the new Ring Battery Doorbell sharply discounted. It’s down to $59.99 ($40 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Target right now, matching its all-time low.

We haven’t tested the 2024 Ring Battery Doorbell yet, but it borrows a couple of nice features from the Battery Doorbell Plus, which is also on sale for a record low $99.99 ($50 off) at Amazon and our top pick for battery-powered doorbells. The not-so-plus model still features a 1080p camera, but now with a 1:1 aspect ratio and a 150-degree field-of-view that gives you more vertical visibility. That’s key for package detection — which will help in the coming holiday shopping season — but also nice for greater coverage to view small children or even spot the little critters who like gnawing on your doorstep florals.

It also has the same PIR motion detection sensor as the Plus, as well as color night vision. Unfortunately, you still can’t cold-swap its battery like you can on the more expensive model, but it’s said to last 23 percent longer than the last generation doorbell with an easier push-pin dismounting mechanism if you use the standard mount.