But we humans are still smarter. We are now at a point with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) where we can use a new confluence of forces to increase human productivity and ingenuity. All the while, we must remember why we're using these new tools and how they can help us work smarter and faster. If you saw the movie Aliens, you might remember the iconic image of Ripley encased in a mechanical exoskeleton, ready to take on the deadly alien queen. AI's impact on human intelligence is akin to a mechanical exoskeleton on the human body.

But we humans are still smarter. We are now at a point with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) where we can use a new confluence of forces to increase human productivity and ingenuity. All the while, we must remember why we're using these new tools and how they can help us work smarter and faster. If you saw the movie Aliens, you might remember the iconic image of Ripley encased in a mechanical exoskeleton, ready to take on the deadly alien queen. AI's impact on human intelligence is akin to a mechanical exoskeleton on the human body.

Japan's ageing generation is turning to robotic exoskeletons to help them work well into old age, reports claim. The Asian nation has one of the oldest populations in the world, with 28 per cent of natives over the age of 65. As the government considers raising retirement age to 70 in order to cope, more would-be pensioners are strapping on £1,000 exoskeletons to boost strength and stamina to extend their working life. Like most other industrial-focused exosuits it is worn like a backpack but it weighs less than ten pounds and can help lift up to 55lbs (25kg). Exoskeletons are being trialled in warehouses and other labour-intensive jobs to prevent injuries to staff, but have also shown promise in aiding the disabled and elderly.

A 15-foot tall racing exoskeleton that could soon be tearing across the Nevada desert has been presented at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) at Las Vegas this year. Creators say their creation'Prosthesis' can hit a top speed of roughly 20 miles per hour (32kmh) – and despite its imposing size it is nearly silent when it moves. They now want to create a'X1 Mech Racing League' where mechanical exoskeletons go head-to-head. The 8,000lb (3,600kg) 'anti-robot' is controlled by a human pilot who stands at the centre of the mechanical exoskeleton, using arm movements to drive it forward at terrifying speeds. The 8,000lb (3,600kg) 'anti-robot' is controlled by a human pilot who stands at the centre of the mechanical exoskeleton, using arm movements to drive it forward at terrifying speeds.