Suicide pod for couples: New AI feature in Sarco capsule to allow 2 people to die together

Sarco pod’s new AI feature to allow two people to end lives together. (Image: AP)

A device that allows individuals to end their lives without medical supervision has again drawn attention, a year after it was reportedly used for the first time. The Sarco pod, a 3D-printed assisted-dying capsule, is back in focus after its inventor said a new version is being developed to allow couples to die together, with an artificial intelligence system proposed to assess mental capacity.

The Sarco pod, short for sarcophagus, was created by Australian physician Philip Nitschke. It allows users to release nitrogen gas inside a 3D-printed capsule, lowering oxygen levels to fatal amounts.

The device first drew global attention in 2024, when a 64-year-old American woman reportedly used it at a woodland retreat in Switzerland. As reported by the Daily Mail, Swiss authorities seized the pod and detained several people who were present. Initial reports suggested the death may not have occurred as intended, raising the possibility of “intentional homicide.” Prosecutors later decided not to press international homicide charges.

Assisted suicide is not illegal in Switzerland if it is done without selfish motives. However, authorities have said the Sarco pod does not meet product safety requirements and may conflict with chemical regulations due to its use of nitrogen gas.

Nitschke has now revealed that he is developing a larger version of the pod, called the ‘Double Dutch’ Sarco, designed to hold two people. He said both occupants must press their buttons at the same time for the device to activate. In an interview with Daily Mail, Nitschke said he has received interest from couples, including one from Britain who told him they wanted to “die in each other’s arms.”

"I'm not suggesting everyone's going to race forward and say, 'Boy, I really want to climb into one of those things,'" Nitschke explained.

The new version will include artificial intelligence to assess mental capacity. Users would complete an online test guided by an AI avatar. If the assessment is passed, the avatar will confirm that the person has mental capacity. "One of the parts to the device, which hadn't been finished, but is now finished, is the artificial intelligence," Nitschke said.

He further explained, "With the new Double Dutch, we'll have the software incorporated, so you'll have to do your little test online with an avatar, and if you pass that test, then the avatar tells you you've got mental capacity."

As per reports, the legal status of the Double Dutch pod is uncertain. Swiss authorities have warned that anyone assisting a death using the device could face criminal charges.