The drone will use EE’s network to enable reliable connectivity for mission-critical tasks and be resistant to extreme temperatures and humidity.
BT Group has unveiled the UK’s first Drone SIM, with the goal of tapping into the true potential of beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone operations.
The SIM has been designed to function at high altitudes and under difficult weather conditions, as it is expected to be used in emergency situations such as search and rescue. Other uses include delivery of medical supplies and infrastructure inspection.
The SIM will use the EE network and offer unlimited data plans and continuous connectivity in the sky. The product represents a “dramatic shift” from using local Wi-Fi or radio transmissions, enabling drones to travel significant distances while staying connected, according to BT.
It will also enable “high priority and ultra-responsive connectivity” and improved video-streaming quality, allowing drones to deliver detailed imagery and video, the company said.
“Following the successful trials of our Drone SIM over the past year, this announcement is a huge stepping stone in bringing drone connectivity to businesses across the UK, unlocking the potential for more efficient processes, business transformation and, with the ability to power search and rescue missions and medical deliveries, helping to save lives,” said Dave Pankhurst, director of drones at BT.
Eduardo Aldaz-Carroll, chief technology officer at sees.ai, highlighted the importance of drone inspections in national energy infrastructure: “Drones offer significant benefits by increasing the speed, efficiency and consistency of data capture so we can predict the future state of the asset with reduced risk and environmental impact.”
The launch of Drone SIM follows a series of successful trials and development by Etc., the digital start-up and incubation arm of BT Group. The company is also involved in other drone-related project such as the £5m deal with Altitude Angel to help build the UK’s first drone superhighway.
Drone SIM has also powered a UK-first drone medical delivery trial with aerial logistics specialist Skyfarer.
“With the Drone SIM powering BVLOS flight, we can take a 20-minute flight between two hospitals and reduce this to a more direct eight-minute flight,” said Georgia Hanrahan, chief operations officer at Skyfarer. “Perfect for time-sensitive deliveries. We estimate a wider-scale roll-out nationwide could reduce our delivery time by 60 per cent compared to road transport.”
In addition to saving lives through the delivery of medical supplies, drone technologies can also contribute to the UK’s goal of reaching net zero. Figures from the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy in 2020 showed that transport remained the largest source of carbon emissions in the UK at 28 per cent, with energy supply at 23 per cent.
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