Each week my team and I review dozens of science and tech advancements that are transforming the world...
Below, I’m sharing my top 4 breakthroughs in tech, science, and longevity that are currently on my mind—"what they are” and “why they're important.”
My goal is to offer you an antidote to all the pessimistic news you’re bombarded with every day.
If you find this valuable, please share it with your family and friends! Remember that we are living during the most extraordinary time ever.
Figure 02 is LIVE / 10 Billion Humanoid Robots by 2040
What It Is: Figure's latest humanoid robot, Figure 02, represents a significant advancement in AI-powered robotics. This upgraded version boasts 6 RGB cameras providing 360-degree vision, and a "visual language model" for real-time decision-making. Battery life has increased by 50%, offering a 20-hour runtime from a 2.25 kWh custom battery pack. Standing 5'6" and weighing 132 lbs., Figure 02 can lift 44 lbs. Its integrated speech-to-speech reasoning, powered by OpenAI, enables natural conversations. BMW has successfully tested these robots in South Carolina, highlighting their real-world applicability. Founder Brett Adcock boldly claims Figure 02 is the "most advanced humanoid on the planet," signaling a new era in human-robot interaction for both industrial and domestic settings.
Why It Matters / What I Think: In my first podcast with Brett, he predicted that we would have 10 billion humanoid robots by 2040. Elon recently echoed this same prediction. For me, the most extraordinary aspect of the Figure 02 announcement is how rapidly Brett and his team at Figure are iterating their designs. In addition to Figure and Tesla, there are 30 other humanoid robot manufactures worldwide including a number in China. With a predicted (and actual) price ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 per robot, the price is low enough, potentially every single human on the planet could own one or two robots. They are likely to be more plentiful than cars. The humanoid robot race is heating up, and with it, our potential for exponential growth and prosperity.
Ozempic-Like (GLP-1) Could Save You from Alzheimer’s
What It Is: Ozempic, a GLP-1 agonist known for diabetes management and weight loss, may also combat dementia. In a groundbreaking clinical trial, 200+ mild Alzheimer's patients received daily injections of liraglutide, a GLP-1 drug, for one year. Results were striking: 50% less brain volume loss in memory-related areas and 18% slower cognitive decline compared to placebo. Led by Dr. Paul Edison at Imperial College London, the ELAD study offers hope in the fight against Alzheimer's. While further research is needed, this repurposing of existing drugs opens exciting possibilities for future treatments.
Why It Matters / What I Think: As we push human lifespan to 100+, we need a multitude of strategies to prevent Alzheimer’s and other forms of neurodegenerative disease. This result, stemming from the use of liraglutide (GLP-1 agonists), was welcome news. The effect of this “slowing of brain volume loss” may fundamentally come from the reduction in appetite, and therefore the reduction in sugar that comes from using GLP-1s. We know that sugar is a poison, a neuro and cardiac inflammatory agent. New evidence shows that higher sugar consumption is also the primary driver of heart attacks (not LDLs or HDLs).
Past Martian Life: Compelling Clues Found by Perseverance Rover
What It Is: NASA's Perseverance rover recently discovered compelling evidence for past microbial life on Mars. The combination of three factors—(1) water traces, (2) organic compounds, and (3) a chemical energy source—all in the same rock, marks the most compelling evidence yet for ancient Martian life. While Perseverance lacks an onboard lab to fully do the analysis, future sample-return missions may help us find the answer, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of extraterrestrial life.
Why It Matters / What I Think: Personally, I think life is ubiquitous in the universe, AND, that we will find life on Mars in the permafrost under the soil. I’m betting on life on Europa and Ganymede (moons of Jupiter), and Titan and Enceladus (moons of Saturn). I think life is a logical progression of chemistry and energy. But we’re going to have to send humans or advanced human-like robots there to determine a final answer. A BIG question is: if there’s life on Mars, how similar is it to life on Earth? There’s even a chance that Earth life originated on Mars (which cooled first) and was transferred to Earth through an asteroid impact. Bottom line: this evidence is one step closer. Oh yeah, and don’t forget that I’m betting we’ll have a human Starship Mission to Mars “before the end of this decade” (2030).
AI-Powered “Robot Dentist” Performs First Automated Procedure
What It Is: Perceptive, a Boston-based startup, has successfully performed the first fully automated dental procedure on a human using its advanced robotic system. The technology integrates 3D imaging, AI, and robotics, promising to revolutionize dentistry. The system uses AI-driven 3D imaging software with a robotic arm, starting with OCT scans from a handheld intraoral scanner. It aims to complete crown placements in just 15 minutes, compared to current two-visit, hour-long procedures. By automating processes, the system increases efficiency and accuracy, potentially setting a new standard of care in dentistry. Dr. Chris Ciriello, Perceptive's founder and CEO, hails this as a medical breakthrough that enhances precision and democratizes access to better dental care.
Why It Matters / What I Think: I’ve been saying for many years that the BEST surgeons will be AI-driven robots. Now I need to include dentists as well. There is no question, that fully autonomous surgery will be delivered safer, cheaper, faster and more accurately with AI-power robots that have “witnessed” and “performed” thousands, perhaps millions, of surgeries capture in shared memories. The robots can see in ultraviolet and infrared, have no spousal fights, and don’t drink too much coffee. They will just do their job perfectly. This dental robot is just the beginning. Imagine a future where such robots deliver “the best” dentistry and surgery in remote villages globally—fully demonetized and democratized.
Live Abundantly,
Peter H. Diamandis, MD