Columbia University scientists invent cannibal robot that can grow and heal itself by consuming other machines | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentNext articleIndependent Bulletin homepageSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleAnthony CuthbertsonTuesday 22 July 2025 15:36 BSTRelated: China hosts world's first robot football matchScientists at Columbia University in New York have developed a robot capable of growing and healing by consuming other robots.This innovation allows machines to absorb and reuse components from others, heralding a new dimension of autonomy for artificial intelligence.The research team demonstrated the concept with a robotic magnet stick, the Truss Link, which can self-assemble and enhance its performance by integrating new parts.An example showed a tetrahedron-shaped robot increasing its speed by over 50 per cent by incorporating a new Truss Link as a walking stick.The developers suggest these self-sustaining robots could be used in specialised applications such as disaster recovery and space exploration, potentially enabling AI to construct physical structures.In fullScientists just invented robots that feed on other robotsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in