Watch: Swarm of millions of nanobots controlled by magnets

A new video posted by Nature News and Comment shows a swarm of millions of nanobots being led through a maze using magnetic fields. Check it out:

As shown in the video, the swarm is able to expand and split apart. Through manipulation of magnetic fields, the swarm is able to move through an obstacle course with precision, changing course and shape in order to reach its goal.

While the technology is in its early stages, researchers hope that the nanobot swarms could be used to navigate parts of the human body that are difficult to treat with traditional medical technology. The malleable nature of the swarm would allow it to be used for highly precise operations like surgery or targeted drug administration.

The research was conducted at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.