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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Take charge of your finances with these top budget monitoring apps that make tracking spending simple, smart, and stress-free.
Updated
January 8, 2026 6:36 PM
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A phone next to a laptop, displaying a stock market app. PHOTO: UNSPLASH
Managing personal finances can feel overwhelming, especially with the countless expenses we juggle daily. Thankfully, budget monitoring apps are hereto save the day. These handy tools help you track your spending, set financial goals, and build better money habits—all from the convenience of your smartphone.
Whether you're saving for a vacation, paying off debt, or just trying to avoid those end-of-the-month surprises, budget tracker apps can provide clarity and control over your finances. Here are 5 budget monitoring apps that will keep your spending on track.
If simplicity is what you’re after, Monefy is the solution. Known for its highly intuitive interface, Monefy lets users track their spending with just a few taps. Unlike many budget apps that overwhelm you with features, Monefy focuses on the essentials, making it great for beginners or anyone looking for a straightforward way to manage their money.
Monefy is perfect for users who want a no-frills app to track spending or beginners just dipping their toes into budgeting.
Budgeting doesn’t have to feel like a chore, and Fortune City proves just that. This app gamifies your financial habits by turning expense tracking into a city-building game. Every category of spending contributes to your virtual city’s development, making it an enjoyable way to visualize where your money is going.
Fortune City is ideal for those who find traditional budgeting boring or intimidating and want a fun way to stay consistent.
Jupiter combines the best of both worlds: digital banking and budgeting. This app integrates directly with your bank account, automatically categorizing transactions and providing insights into your spending patterns. It’s not just a budget tracker—it’s a full-fledged financial assistant.
Jupiter is best for users who want a hands-off budgeting experience and prefer an all-in-one app for banking and money management.
Inspired by the envelope budgeting method, GoodBudget offers a digital twist on this classic approach. Instead of physical envelopes, you allocate your money into virtual "envelopes" for different spending categories. This app encourages disciplined spending and is particularly effective for budgeters who like to plan ahead.
GoodBudget is ideal for planners who like a structured approach to budgeting and don’t mind manual tracking.
Wally is a feature-packed app designed for users who want deep insights into their spending habits. Its sleek design, multi-currency support, and detailed financial reports make it a standout option, especially for frequent travelers or professionals juggling multiple accounts.
Wally is perfect for users who want advanced budgeting tools and detailed insights, especially those with international financial needs.
Budget monitoring apps are powerful tools that simplify the often-daunting task of managing your finances. Whether you’re drawn to the playful gamification of Fortune City, the structured approach of GoodBudget, or the all-in-one convenience of Jupiter, there’s an app tailored to your preferences and goals.
These apps don’t just track your spending—they help you build better habits, gain financial clarity, and take control of your money. With the right app in your pocket, managing your budget becomes less of a chore and more of are warding journey toward financial freedom. So why wait? Choose an app, start tracking, and watch your financial confidence grow!