Nokia has launched a 5G-enabled 360° camera for industrial use. The company claiming it is the world’s first such camera for industrial usage.

The camera is designed for harsh industrial conditions and comes with cyber-secure software and built-in security hardware. It is is the result of long-term Nokia multimedia research.

Waterproof (IP67) and shock-resistant, the camera provides 8K streaming with low-latency high-resolution 360° video coupled with spatial audio over 5G, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. It minimises the need for extensive use of traditional cameras at industrial sites.

The ability to transmit video and audio over private and public wireless networks enables real-time remote-control usage. This allows users to reduce the risk of accidents and increasing reliability and operational efficiency. Coupled with Nokia Real-time eXtended Reality Multimedia (RXRM) software, the camera provides an end-to-end solution for real-time remote use cases. These might include situational awareness, remote monitoring, remote inspection or teleoperation of industrial equipment.

Nokia RXRM provides APIs for customer AI platforms to integrate 360° video and 3D OZO Audio. Customers can implement analytics, overlays, extended reality and novel innovations on top of immersive live video. RXRM’s 360° video and spatial audio increases the accuracy of what users see through near-instant, ultra-HD content streaming.

Finnish company Callio Pyhäjärvi is an early RXRM customer. They have repurposed Pyhäsalmi mine for R&D, remote operations and training. The mine, Europe’s deepest at 1,445m, is employed to spearhead the latest technologies for the mining industry globally.

Sakari Nokela, Chief Development Officer, Callio Pyhäjärvi, said: “Previously, existing cameras have been unable to meet the challenges posed by the harsh conditions of mining operations in Callio Business Park. With the trusted Nokia product reliability and security, this camera effectively addresses a critical gap in the market.”

Sami Ranta, General Manager, RXRM, Nokia, said: “Nokia RXRM allows industrial customers to enhance their business processes, saving costs from product support to field operations. Adding a 5G-enabled industrial camera product to RXRM now offers a complete solution for real-time remote use cases such as situational awareness, remote monitoring, teleoperation and stadium scale sports and entertainment events.”