Flying Nanobot Gives Wings to Imminent Grey Goo Doomsday Scenario

Researchers at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, seemingly oblivious to the fact that technology is exponentially outpacing our ability to keep up with it, have created a new breed of levitating nano-machines.

Worse still, these malignant Micro Machines are armed with tiny pincers that open and close when they are heated by, wait for it, a laser.

The researchers claim this discovery will lead to better toxic waste cleanup:

“Since there is no wiring, and the robot freely floats in air, it can operate in an enclosed chamber while the whole setup is outside,” wrote U of W professor Mir Behrad Khamesee. “It can work in hazardous environments, toxic chambers, and it can be used to conduct bio-hazardous experiments. Also, since there is no mechanical linkage, it has a dust-free operation, suitable for clean room applications.”

Right, until these little critters spawn some artificial intelligence, take a look at the planet, and decide “toxic waste” means “mankind.” [ZDNet]