T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS) today announced the Un-carrier is working with InDro Robotics, the leading Canadian air and ground robotics research and development company, to make the world safer. The companies have successfully completed trials using T-Mobile 5G to remotely connect and operate Indro Robotics’ ground-based industrial inspection robots, testing security and inspection capabilities at electrical substations.
InDro Robotics’ Sentinel was chosen by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) to evaluate ground-roving robotics based on its ability to provide 24-hour substation asset inspection and security monitoring.
Sentinel was up to the task and ran constant surveillance while streaming all data back to maintenance teams in near real-time using a custom integrated 5G router connected to T-Mobile’s network. The rover was able to follow preset paths while running autonomously and was remotely controlled by operators over 5G.
“Like most robotics, the Sentinel requires an ultra-reliable network with low latency, and T-Mobile 5G proves to be more than capable,” said John Saw, EVP of Advanced & Emerging Technologies at T-Mobile. “The possibilities to use 5G in ways that keep people safe, make life easier and help businesses save money are endless. And we’ve barely scratched the surface of what’s possible.”
While the company acknowledges in this morning’s news release this robot won’t be going on any space adventures anytime soon, it could be up for the challenge in the future.
Thanks to its thermal camera, depth sensor and 30x zoom capabilities, InDro Robotics’ Sentinel rover can read and report on gauge levels while monitoring for abnormalities like fluctuating component temperatures, intruders, wildlife hazards and more.
TMUS shares fell 45 cents, first thing Monday, to $131.88.
