Swiss engineers have unveiled a robotic hand reportedly more efficient than its human counterpart.

The device, developed at the Swiss Federal Technology Institute of Lausanne (EPFL), features a dual-thumb and reversible-palm design and can detach from its arm to crawl and reach objects independently.

Footage shows the invention moving with versatility, mimicking the motions of octopus arms and insect limbs.

Another video clip shows it opening a bottle, driving a screw, and holding multiple items in its fingers.

The hand supports up to six identical fingers, which can form opposing pairs to solve the asymmetry problem of human hands.

Its reversible design allows the palm and back to switch roles, while detachment enables it to crawl like a spider while carrying objects.

Aude Billard, head of the Learning Algorithms and Systems Laboratory at EPFL, said: 'Our device reliably performs ‘loco manipulation' - stationary manipulation combined with autonomous mobility - which has huge potential for industrial, service, and exploratory robotics.'

The team sees applications in tight spaces, prosthetics, and environments requiring enhanced manipulation, with symmetrical, reversible functionality offering capabilities beyond normal human function.