New shape-shifting material mimics octopus camouflage

In early 2026, researchers made a breakthrough by creating a 'soft photonic skin' that mimics the remarkable camouflage of octopuses.

These cephalopods are masters of disguise, using specialized skin cells called [chromatophores|biological] to change color and muscular organs known as [papillae|biological] to alter their texture.

While earlier 2017 models relied on air-based pneumatic systems to create 3D shapes, the new material uses a [swellable polymer|technological] base.

By employing a high-precision method called [electron-beam lithography|technological], scientists can program the material to swell at different rates, transforming a flat surface into a complex, rugged topography in seconds.

Additionally, the skin uses [Fabry-Pérot resonators|technological] to shift colors by reflecting different light wavelengths as the polymer changes size.

This evolution from static materials to 4D printing holds immense promise for fields like adaptive camouflage, soft robotics, and advanced medical implants.