Exocomp

Exocomps are a sapient species of small flying robots created by the Tyran scientist Dr. Farallon in the 24th century.

Initially intended to be, and regarded as, non-living tools, the Exocomps' status as sapient life forms was first suspected by Lt. Commander Data in 2369.

Created to excel at problem-solving skills, Exocomps are equipped with miniature replicators which allow them not only to create tools for instant use, but also to form new circuit pathways to deal with new situations. This allowed the Exocomps to improve themselves with each new experience, and eventually resulted in the development of actual sapience.

Appearances

 * Star Trek: The Next Generation, s06e09, "The Quality of Life" (1992)