Researchers have developed cyborg cockroaches that can survive underwater and in low-oxygen environments, allowing them to assist in search-and-rescue operations. The cockroaches are fitted with electronic controllers, an oxygen generation tank, and silicone tubes, enabling them to navigate for up to 3 hours. The cyborg insects were tested during Myanmar's 7.7-magnitude earthquake in March 2025, where they relayed information to identify signs of life.
DARPA Lift Challenge showcases robots learning to lift and maneuver objects safely. STEMbot, a small robot, climbs plant stems to check for pests. A new robot from Modlab University of Pennsylvania has a "truss't-worthy" design, and DR02 from DEEP Robotics navigates stairs with stable movement. Meanwhile, a miniature robotic structural minifridge has been developed.