Bharti Airtel, TCS join hands for 5G-based remote robotic operations

Telecom operator Bharti Airtel and IT major Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) have joined hands to build a 5G-based remote working technology using robotics, according to sources. Both the companies are currently running the trials in Airtel's 5G lab at Manesar, Haryana.

"Indian companies are looking to adopt indigenously developed technology for 5G. Airtel and TCS have joined hands for remote robotics operations using 5G. They have successfully conducted trials in Airtel's 5G lab, a source said

These solutions will enable remote robotic operations in potentially hazardous environments like mining, oil & gas fields etc, the source said.

Both the companies have interest in deploying these solutions in industrial segments, once the commercial roll out of 5G starts, the source noted. When contacted, TCS declined to comment as they are going through a silent period and an email query sent to Bharti Airtel did not elicit any reply.

The commercial deployment of Tata Group developed O-RAN was to start from January 2022, but uncertainty around it remains because of deferment in the 5G spectrum auction plan of the government. The government has extended the 5G trial period till May 2022.