iPresence Introduces Innovative Telepresence Robot
iPresence, Inc. has officially unveiled its latest telepresence robot, equipped with advanced high-magnification cameras, designed specifically for the local 5G environment. This highly anticipated launch is part of the Tokyo NEXT 5G Boosters Project, an initiative by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government aimed at fostering the development of next-generation communication technologies. Collaborating with
TIS, Inc., a development promoter for the project, iPresence is poised to accelerate its commercialization efforts based on successful local 5G demonstrations, which have enhanced the solution’s value and practicality.
The technology foundation for the telepresence robot builds upon iPresence's previous partnerships, notably with
Canon Marketing Japan, Inc. This collaboration has enabled the development of remote monitoring and confirmation solutions utilizing Canon’s remote cameras. The recent local 5G testing has confirmed the feasibility of transmitting stable 4K video, which had previously been a challenge due to bandwidth limitations, thus reinforcing the value of the overall solution.
With the collaborative efforts with Canon MJ, iPresence is ready to undertake additional development and operational validation, focusing on enhancing the solution’s features and expanding its user base. Ongoing technical support from Canon will facilitate tailored adaptations of the product to meet specific client needs.
Furthermore, iPresence’s alliance with TIS allows for multifaceted support in both business and technological realms, positioning the company to establish new operational models leveraging local 5G technology. The goal is to expand these business applications across various industries, fostering innovative solutions that utilize 5G capabilities to their fullest.
Looking ahead, iPresence plans to promote the adoption of its telepresence solutions across sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure, public facilities, and education. The aim is to incorporate practical remote interaction experiences powered by local 5G into societal frameworks.
Key Use Cases
The telepresence robot is designed for autonomous movement on flat surfaces, enabling it to approach objects and capture detailed views through camera zooming, while simultaneously allowing real-time conversations as if face-to-face. This ability elevates it beyond a mere mobile camera—transforming it into a true telepresence tool that facilitates participation, discussion, and decision-making remotely.
In the manufacturing sector, remote operators can magnify equipment states via the robot while engaging in conversations with on-site workers, thus enhancing coordination without the need for physical presence. This allows for effective guidance and consultation, serving as a substitute for on-site visits or as a complement to them.
In research and development facilities, the robot enables remote verification of experimental setups while allowing real-time discussions with local researchers. This simultaneous capacity to view and converse becomes invaluable during collaborative projects or reviews.
In construction and equipment sectors, inspectors can verify installation conditions or wiring from a distance, communicating corrections and confirmations instantly with local teams. This reduces the burden of physical inspections and scheduling, promoting operational efficiency.
In corporate offices and showrooms, sales teams can use the robot to showcase detailed product features to clients while simultaneously engaging them in dialogue, thus creating a more immersive experience compared to standard video broadcasts.
In public institutions and infrastructure, staff can check equipment displays remotely while discussing actions and strategies with on-site personnel, effectively maintaining human interactions even while facilitating distance communications.
The educational sector benefits as well, where teachers can demonstrate equipment or materials remotely, providing explanations and answering questions as if they were present on-site, thereby enhancing the learning experience.
All these applications highlight the ability of the telepresence solution to simultaneously facilitate viewing, interacting, and confirming. iPresence’s technology is designed to enable a seamless integration of detailed observation with real-time engagement, offering a unique telepresence experience that enhances operational capabilities across various fields.
About the Tokyo NEXT 5G Boosters Project
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's
Tokyo NEXT 5G Boosters Project aims to nurture startups within the city, leveraging the diversity of Tokyo—from urban centers to rural and island areas—to nurture globally competitive innovations. By utilizing 5G and other advanced communication technologies, the project strives to create valuable services that enhance the quality of life (QOL) for Tokyo’s residents while elevating the value of participating startups.
The initiative involves sourcing and designating development promoters to provide multi-faceted support for startups over a three-year period, encouraging the development and commercialization of innovative products and services. The core mission is to collaborate with telecommunications providers, field demonstration partners, research institutions, and venture capitalists to deliver essential funding and technical support to foster their growth.
Company Information
iPresence, Inc.
Location: 6-9 Mukouyouchou Naka, Higashinada Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo, Japan
CEO: Christopher Chris Frances
Business: Development and provision of solutions leveraging telepresence avatar robots, digital twins, AI, and other advanced technologies.
Website:
iPresence Official Site
With their motto focusing on delivering the sensation of "being there," iPresence is dedicated to maximizing the potential of remote communication through telepresence avatar robots and related technologies, aiming to redefine contemporary work and lifestyles.