New Nanotech Could Lead to Heart-Powered Phones

Device uses viruses to harvest electricity from movement

(NEWSER) - Scientists have unveiled what they say could be the forerunner of many virus-powered gadgets. A team at the Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has created a tiny generator powered by a benign virus, reports the BBC . When a finger touches an electrode coated with viruses, they converted the mechanical energy into electricity. Researchers say viruses have the edge over other substances that convert force into electricity, because they are organic, organize themselves naturally into layers, and replicate themselves by the millions. More»

Skin-like device could revolutionize medicine, gaming

(NEWSER) - Scientists have blurred the line between man and machine with a revolutionary new device. The "electronic tattoo" sticks to the skin like a temporary tattoo, moving and wrinkling like skin does. The device, created by researchers seeking to create less obtrusive medical monitors for premature babies, monitors vital signs, but its creators believe it can be used in fields including gaming and espionage, ScienceNews reports. More»

(NEWSER) - Scientists have developed electricity-generating fibers that can be embedded in clothing and other materials and draw power from the smallest of movements, LiveScience reports. The zinc oxide nanowires are as small as 1/5,000th the width of a human hair and produce energy when they vibrate, even from blood flowing through veins. Cell phones and other personal electronics, not to mention military applications, could be powered. More»

Scientists discover way to derive energy from microfiber fabric

(NEWSER) - George Jetson, eat your heart out: Scientists have developed a microfiber fabric that generates its own electricity, which could someday provide relief for cellphone users strapped without their chargers or iPod fanatics running low on battery. The fabric, if woven into a shirt, could harness power from simple physical movement such as walking or even a gentle breeze, Reuters reports. More»

Electrical circuit and lights spark ideas for future gadgets

(NEWSER) - Bionic vision may cost less than $6 million after all: Scientists unveiled a new electronic contact lens this week that is already sparking ideas for future technology. Endowed with a circuit and lights, the gadget isn't ready yet, but makers say it is built with safe, organic materials. It even boasts an electronic circuit a few nanometers wide—about 80,000 thinner than a human hair. More»