An exoskeleton is a frame worn on the body that supports the wearer's movements, taking some of the load during lifting or repetitive motion. In 2026 lighter and more comfortable designs have appeared in warehouses, factories and care work, aiming to reduce fatigue and the injuries that come from years of physical strain.
Most workplace models are passive or lightly powered, guiding effort rather than doing the work for the person. The goal is prevention, sparing backs and shoulders during tasks that must still be done by hand. Comfort and fit decide whether workers actually wear them, so much of the recent progress is in making the frames less intrusive.