We are one step closer to being able to ‘touch’ something in the virtual world. While our minds can be fooled when it comes to vision, our sense of touch is much more subtle and sensitive.
Haptic technology is designed to trick our skin into thinking that what we're touching in the virtual world is real. It has been used in the gaming industry for years to enhance a player's experience, but the mechanical sensation isn't particularly realistic and is often delayed.
The introduction of 5G, however, will enable us to make haptics mainstream – because it's the first time that the network will work faster than our minds. Its high speed and low latency will also mean that we can use haptic communication for other applications, such as in surgery, transportation and manufacturing.
To put this into practice, Ericsson is collaborating with ABB – an industrial digitalization specialist – to determine how haptic communication could work in an industrial setting, exploring the concept of realistic robot remote control with haptic feedback.
More cases using 5G for haptic feedback
In this particular proof of concept and demo used at industry events, we looked at how users can steer and 'feel' objects at remote locations via sensors fed with low latency – and the applications we will be able to create with this kind of setup. This project is a collaboration between Ericsson and The Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm.
5G experience
5G copters windfarm
Here, Ericsson's Master Researcher, Cristian Norlin, explains how a combination of low latency, high video throughput and IoT work through a haptic remote device. The 5G copter is a prototype system for semi-autonomous, remote flying, enabling users to move and interact with the copter's environment.
Explore our other industry collaborations
Bringing ideas to life – King’s College London and Ericsson
Discover how Ericsson is collaborating with King's College London and industry leaders to reshape our world with 5G research and technology innovation. Learn more about this case here.
A healing hand – King’s College London and Ericsson
We are collaborating with Dr Prokar Dasgupta, a professor and surgeon at King's College London Hospital to explore how the tactile internet can provide patients around the world with access to remote medical specialists. Learn more about this case here.
Leveling-up education with gaming – King’s College London, Rooplay and Ericsson
We are working with King's College London and Jason Williams at Rooplay to unlock education by making gaming more immersive with cutting-edge 5G technology. Learn more about this case here.
Creating an immersive experience – King’s College London and Ericsson
Together with artist, writer and philosopher Ali Hossaini, we are working to discover how 5G can transform the arts and impact sensory experiences, bringing cultural events to new audiences around the world. Learn more about this case here.
Teach anyone to learn anything – King’s College London and Ericsson
The Internet of Skills can enable anyone to become an expert. Together with Dr Mischa Dohler, Chair Professor in Wireless Communications at King's College London, we are learning how to transfer human knowledge remotely. Learn more about this case here.
Safety is no accident – Boliden and Ericsson
By harnessing 5G technology, Ericsson and Boliden are boosting reliable communications in mines to improve productivity and safety. Learn more about this case here.
Take the road untraveled – Scania, the Royal Institute of Technology and Ericsson
Join Ericsson, Scania and the Royal Institute of Technology as they accelerate autonomous, connected transportation fueled by 5G. Learn more about this case here.
Smart fix – Cramo, Husqvarna and Ericsson
Ericsson, Cramo and Husqvarna have created a pioneering proof of concept for process automation, transforming the tool rental business. Learn more about this case here.
Manufacturing intelligence – SKF, Chalmers University of Technology and Ericsson
SKF, Chalmers University of Technology and Ericsson are launching the next Industrial Revolution, with the help of 5G and the Industrial Internet of Things. Learn more about this case here.
Enabling connected healthcare – AstraZeneca, China Mobile, WND and Ericsson
Ericsson is partnering with AstraZeneca, WND and China Mobile to enhance healthcare services in China through collaboration and the Internet of Things. Learn more about this case here.
Champions in digital sports experience – Paris Saint-Germain and Ericsson
We are capturing and controlling data, as well as producing powerful data visualization, to give unprecedented insight into scouting, player health, scheduling, and so much more. Learn more about this case here.
Securing the cloud for the future – TIM and Ericsson
We are connecting people, objects and the cloud to optimize processes, enhance safety and reduce costs in services enabled by 5G projects. Learn more about this case here.
The robotics – Zucchetti Centro Sistemi, The BioRobotics Institute and Ericsson
In collaboration with the BioRobotics Institute and Zucchetti Centro Sistemi, Ericsson is exploring innovative uses for 5G cloud robotics. Learn more about this case here.
The gateway to Tuscany – CNIT, Port of Livorno and Ericsson
Discover how Ericsson, CNIT and the Port of Livorno are considering ways to transform seaport communications by developing a connected port. Learn more about this case here.
A healthy obsession with innovation – Imaginalis, El.En and Ericsson
Two Tuscany-based companies are combining their research efforts with Ericsson to transform healthcare treatments and improve the lives of patients around the world. Learn more about this case here.
On the road to innovation – Piaggio and Ericsson
In collaboration with Ericsson, Tuscan company Piaggio is using 5G technology to put Italy at the forefront of the transportation sector once again. Learn more about this case here.
We’ve got the X-Factory – Ericsson smart factories
Ericsson factories in Sweden, Estonia and China are fast-tracking the introduction of a new generation smart manufacturing. Learn more about these cases here