M1 and SUTD partner to develop 5G robotics technology

Its goal is to translate 5G for government and enterprise use.

M1 Limited and the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to conduct joint research on the remote operation of tactile robotics using 5G technology.

Also read: Singapore telcos brace for higher costs amidst 5G rollout

According to the joint release, M1 will provide and deploy the supporting 5G network to build technical competency in 5G system deployment and explore potential uses. An indoor network testbed of 5G small cells will be set up in SUTD for researchers and students to test out the potential of 5G technologies.

The MOU was signed during SUTD’s annual Fostering Industrial Research Success Together (FIRST) Industry Workshop.

SUTD said that the aim of the testbed is to translate 5G for use of government and enterprises, as well as to attract students to participate in experimental 5G projects and in turn drive Singapore’s Smart Nation goals.

The joint research identified tactical security, delivery and mascot robots, real-time remote sensing, real-time remote operation of robotics and e-scooters, as well as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) content delivery with 360-degree video streaming, as its key areas of focus and application.

Last month, M1 won a 5G Trial Tech Call from Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and PSA Corporation Ltd (PSA) to study 5G performance and capabilities for port applications. This study will include tele-remote control of port equipment and enhancing Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV) operations.