Scientists have built a sixth robotic finger to make people more productive

Researchers at the University of Cambridge in England have succeeded in developing one Additional prosthetic thumbThis is with the aim of increasing people’s productivity. This innovative robotic thumb is designed to enhance hand capabilities, for example allowing a person to hold two glasses or shuffle cards with just one hand! In fact, in addition to these simple everyday procedures, this sixth finger can assist in more complex operations, such as a surgeon performing an operation.

Tamar Makin, professor of cognitive neuroscience at the University of Cambridge, highlighted the potential benefits of the thumb in different work environments, explaining:

We’re excited about the thumb’s ability to enhance productivity, especially for tasks that require manual dexterity, from skilled welders of complex objects to surgeons using multiple tools at once.

This mini add-on was first introduced at the Royal Society Summer Science Fair in 2022 and has now been tested by nearly 600 people, with the majority successfully using the device within the first minute of interacting with it. Only four people had difficulties, either due to lack of physical fitness or inability to control their feet.

Yes, you read that correctly. This sixth toe is controlled by pressure sensors placed under each big toe and moves according to the pressure applied. That is, the pressure of the right toe pulls it along the hand, while the pressure of the left toe raises it towards the fingers. Danny Claude, the device’s developer, emphasized its user-friendly nature, explaining that unlike complex tools that require extensive training, this extra thumb can be put to use very quickly. Although it was originally designed for able-bodied people, the research team hopes to support people with disabilities as well, and see a future where this technology can greatly expand their abilities.

You can watch the official presentation from the University of Cambridge in the player below.