An article published by the science journal “Nature” explains that the idea would be to “disperse” these tiny winged microchips into the air, in both urban and natural environments, to collect valuable data.

According to the researchers, they could form the basis of future systems for monitoring the environment or even the population, such as in the context of disease management.

To achieve this, the microchips are installed in small 3D flying structures with miniature wing blades made of biodegradable materials.

These wireless and battery-free devices would also have sensors capable of providing useful environmental measurements.

Indeed, the devices could analyse the quality of air or water, and detect the presence of viruses and so on.

This project is still in its infancy in the university’s laboratory, but the aim is to test it quickly and to explore and identify other potential uses.