Scientists have developed a stretchable, self-powered thermometer, an advance that could potentially lead to next-generation soft robotics, smart clothing and medical devices compatible with the human body. While most components used traditionally for sensing in robots and smart clothing are rigid, researchers from Harvard University said their new soft sensors are highly sensitive with their ability to sense temperature unaffected by their stretchability. "We have developed soft temperature sensors with high sensitivity and quick response time, opening new possibilities to create new human–machine interfaces and soft robots in healthcare, engineering and entertainment," said Zhigang Suo, senior author of the study. Soft robots, mimicking animal or human motion, find applications in a range of fields including medical diagnostics and disaster management. Stretchable sensors make the development of such robots much more feasible, researchers said.