CES 2026 and the move toward wearable robots you don’t wear all day.
Updated
January 13, 2026 10:56 AM
The π6 exoskeleton from VIGX. PHOTO: VIGX
CES 2026 highlighted how robotics is taking many different forms. VIGX, a wearable robotics company, used the event to introduce the π6, a portable exoskeleton robot designed to be carried and worn only when needed. Unveiled in Las Vegas, the device reflects a broader shift at CES toward robotics that move with people rather than staying fixed in industrial or clinical settings.
Exoskeletons have existed for years, most commonly in controlled environments such as factories, rehabilitation facilities and specialised research settings. In these contexts, they have tended to be large, fixed systems intended for long sessions of supervised use rather than something a person could deploy on their own.
Against that backdrop, the π6 explores a more personal and flexible approach to assistance. Instead of treating an exoskeleton as permanent equipment, it is designed to be something users carry with them and wear only when a task or situation calls for extra support.
The π6 weighs 1.9 kilograms and folds down to a size that fits into a bag. When worn, it sits around the waist and legs, providing mechanical assistance during activities such as walking, climbing or extended movement. Rather than altering how people move, the system adds controlled rotational force at key joints to reduce physical strain over time.
According to the company, the device delivers up to 800 watts of peak power and 16 Nm of rotational force. In practical terms, this means the system is designed to help users sustain effort for longer periods, especially during physically demanding activities_ by easing the body's load rather than pushing it beyond normal limits.
The π6 is designed to support users weighing between 45 kilograms and 120 kilograms and is intended for intermittent use. This reinforces its role as a wearable companion — something taken out when needed and set aside when not — rather than a device meant to be worn continuously.
Another aspect of the system is how it responds to different environments. Using onboard sensors and processing, the exoskeleton can detect changes such as slopes or uneven ground and adjust the level of assistance accordingly. This reduces the need for manual adjustments and helps maintain a consistent walking experience across varied terrain, with software fine-tuning how assistance is applied rather than directing movement itself.
The hardware design follows a similar logic. The power belt contains a detachable battery, allowing users to remove or swap it without handling the entire system. This keeps the wearable components lighter and makes the exoskeleton easier to transport. The battery can also be used as a general power source for small electronic devices, adding a layer of practicality beyond the exoskeleton’s core function.
VIGX frames its work around accessibility rather than industrial automation. “To empower ordinary people,” said founder Bob Yu, explaining why the company chose to focus on exoskeleton robotics. “VIGX is dedicated to expanding the physical limits of humans, enabling deeper outdoor adventures, making running and cycling easier and more enjoyable and allowing people to sustain their outdoor pursuits regardless of age.”
Placed within the wider context of CES, the π6 sits alongside a growing number of portable robots and wearable systems that prioritise convenience, mobility and personal use. By reducing the physical and practical barriers to wearing an exoskeleton, VIGX is testing whether assistive robotics can move beyond niche environments and into everyday life. If that experiment succeeds, wearable robots may become less about dramatic augmentation and more about quiet support — present when needed and easy to put away when not.
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Can AI companions really help with our mental health?
Updated
January 8, 2026 6:35 PM
A laptop with the text "MENTAL HEALTH" displayed. PHOTO: PEXELS
As technology continues to weave itself into the fabric of our daily lives, it’s starting to play an unexpected role: supporting our mental health. AI companions—digital entities designed to hold natural, empathetic conversations—are emerging as a new frontier in emotional care. Unlike chatbots of the past, these AI companions leverage advanced algorithms and emotional intelligence to provide personalized support, making them more than just tools. They are companions in every sense of the word—always available, always listening, and always ready to offer comfort. But can AI companions truly help us feel better, or are they just another tech trend? Let’s dive into how these digital allies are reshaping mental health care and what their growing presence means for our emotional well-being.
Loneliness is often called an epidemic, with millions of people worldwide feeling isolated or disconnected. While human relationships are irreplaceable, AI companions offer a consistent and accessible alternative to combat feelings of loneliness.
These companions don’t just respond—they engage. They remember your preferences, ask follow-up questions, and adapt their conversations to your needs. Imagine having someone to talk to at any time of day, about anything on your mind, without fear of judgment. AI companions may not replace a human friend, but they can provide a sense of presence and connection that can be profoundly comforting.
In a world where reaching out to others can sometimes feel daunting, AI companions offer a simple solution: they’re always there. This consistency can help people feel less alone, fostering a sense of connection in an increasingly disconnected world.
We all experience moments of stress, sadness, or doubt, and having someone to turn to during those times can make all the difference. AI companions are designed with emotional intelligence, enabling them to recognize and respond to your feelings in real time.
Through sentiment analysis and adaptive learning, these companions can detect when you’re feeling low and tailor their responses to provide comfort. Whether it’s offering words of encouragement, suggesting self-care activities, or simply listening, they provide a safe space to process emotions.
Unlike traditional apps that focus on tracking habits or delivering generic advice, AI companions meet you where you are emotionally. This personalized approach can help users feel truly supported, even in their most challenging moments.
For many of us, expressing our thoughts and emotions openly can feel like a risk. Fear of judgment, misunderstanding, or even burdening others often holds us back. AI companions offer an alternative: a completely private, judgment-free space to share whatever is on your mind.
Talking things out—whether it’s frustrations from the day or deeper personal struggles—can be incredibly therapeutic. And with AI companions, there’s no need to worry about being misunderstood or dismissed. You can let your guard down, explore your feelings, and reflect on your experiences with total freedom.
This safe space for self-expression can be especially valuable for those who struggle to open up to others. It’s not about replacing human relationships but about having an outlet that’s always available and entirely focused on you.
Self-doubt is a common barrier to personal growth, and many of us battle negative self-talk daily. AI companions are programmed to combat this by offering positive reinforcement and encouragement.
For example, if you express doubt about your abilities, an AI companion might respond with affirmations like, “You’ve accomplished so much already—don’t forget how capable you are.” Over time, these small but meaningful interactions can help shift your mindset, replacing self-criticism with self-compassion.
This ability to mirror supportive, affirming conversations can build confidence and foster a more positive self-image. It’s a subtle but powerful way AI companions can contribute to emotional well-being.
AI companions are more than just a tech trend; they represent a new way of thinking about mental health care. By offering companionship, emotional support, safe spaces for self-expression, and tools for mindfulness, they empower users to take control of their well-being.
While they may not replace traditional methods of care, AI companions are making mental health support more accessible, immediate, and personalized. They’re a reminder that sometimes, the smallest interactions—an encouraging word, a moment of mindfulness, or a listening ear—can have the biggest impact.
As we embrace this new era of technology, one thing is clear: AI companions are not just about convenience. They’re about connection, support, and the potential to make emotional care a part of everyday life. And in a world that often feels disconnected, that’s something worth celebrating.