This holiday season, Santa Claus is bringing even more cheer—thanks to some high-tech innovation. Mike Tindall, a 67-year-old retired U.S. Navy veteran, has become the first professional Santa in the world to sport a bionic arm, and it’s not just any bionic arm—it’s a perfect fit for his jolly persona.
Tindall, who lost his left forearm in a 1994 work accident, has spent the past 30 years bringing joy to children and families as Santa Claus, working alongside his wife, Cindy, who plays Mrs. Claus. Despite the challenges presented by his amputation, Tindall has never let it get in the way of his holiday duties. But now, thanks to the cutting-edge technology of the Hero Arm, he can spread even more Christmas cheer with ease.
The Hero Arm, a sleek, 3D-printed multi-grip prosthetic, was developed by Open Bionics, a U.K.-based company that specializes in creating advanced bionic limbs. The arm, which features sensors that read muscle movements and convert them into bionic finger movements, allows Tindall to perform everyday tasks—like holding presents, accepting letters, and shaking hands—with ease. And with its festive red design, it matches his Santa suit perfectly.
“I’ve been looking for something that is easy to use and can help me when I’m handing out presents, accepting letters, and meeting families,” Tindall explained. The Hero Arm has made his seasonal job easier, as it’s lightweight, comfortable, and easy to control. Tindall particularly loves how simple it is to switch between different grips.
When kids spotted the light flashing on his bionic arm, Tindall had the perfect explanation: “I told them it’s a Santa tracker for Mrs. Claus so she can see where I am.” The kids were thrilled, and who could blame them? Not only is Santa sporting the latest in prosthetic technology, but he’s also blending fun and innovation into the magic of Christmas.
The Hero Arm is designed to be fully customizable and is equipped with sensors that respond to muscle movements, making it easy for Tindall to operate with precision. He traveled to Open Bionics’ Texas clinic for the fitting and immediately put his new arm to the test—holding a cup of hot chocolate, dunking a cookie, and even checking his naughty-and-nice list.
The folks at Open Bionics couldn’t be more excited to be a part of Santa’s mission to bring joy to children around the world. Samantha Payne, co-founder of the company, expressed her enthusiasm: “Getting to help Santa with his mission to deliver joy and merriment for children at the holidays has been so much fun. We’re so glad the Hero Arm has been able to help Santa with all his two-handed tasks and holiday preparations. Hopefully, we’re on the good list this year.”
Mike Tindall’s story is a shining example of resilience and ingenuity. With the help of technology, he is able to continue his beloved role as Santa Claus—bringing holiday magic to families far and wide. This Christmas, Tindall proves that no obstacle is too big to overcome when you have faith, determination, and a little help from modern science. So, when you spot Santa this year, be sure to give him a wave—and maybe even a thank-you for showing that Christmas miracles come in all shapes, sizes, and, yes, bionic arms.
