Science Group

Science, founded by Max Hodak, is developing the implantable Prima chip, which functionally replaces dead photoreceptors and projects high-contrast black-and-white images into the eye via glasses. EU trials with 38 patients showed that 84 percent were able to recognize letters or words again; the technology is approved in the EU and could soon be available in Germany. Science recently raised $230 million but sets realistic expectations and stresses the first generation’s limitations (limited field of view, no true color vision). The company is simultaneously working on longer-term approaches such as biohybrid interfaces designed to enable deeper neural integration. » More on wiwo.de

The Japanese company Science from Osaka has made its “Human Washer in the Future” available for series production after presenting it at the Expo in Osaka. The 2.3‑meter capsule device cleans, soaps and dries a person lying down in a 15‑minute cycle and costs around 60 million yen (about €331,000). Science plans to produce 50 units; first customers are a hotel in Osaka and electronics retailer Yamada, which will offer the device in its Ikebukuro flagship store. » More on sueddeutsche.de