Bangalore: Ericsson, Bharti Airtel, and Volvo Group have announced a collaboration to research the use of Extended Reality (XR) and Digital Twin technologies in the manufacturing sector.
The project, based at Volvo Group’s factory and R&D centre in Bangalore, will test industrial metaverse applications and explore how 5G Advanced can improve real-time operations and workforce training.
Testing Industrial Metaverse on 5G Advanced
The research initiative will focus on using Airtel’s 5G Advanced network to power XR-driven applications in manufacturing. With high-speed, low-latency connectivity, the companies aim to simulate production workflows, optimize design prototyping, and test “what if” scenarios without disrupting actual operations.
The project will also examine how AI-powered digital twins can enhance efficiency and innovation in industrial processes.
Kamal Bali, President & MD, Volvo Group India, stated that 5G and XR technologies will support automation, connectivity, and sustainability efforts in manufacturing. He emphasized the role of digitalization in real-time collaboration across industrial and R&D sites.
5G’s Role in Industry 4.0 and Future Business Models
Airtel’s enterprise division will deploy its 5G infrastructure for this project, focusing on its application in immersive industrial training and smart factory solutions.
Sharat Sinha, Director & CEO of Airtel Business, highlighted that 5G will reshape manufacturing by improving efficiency and unlocking new business models.
Ericsson India’s Managing Director, Nitin Bansal, noted that the research will help prepare networks for XR-driven industrial applications. The company aims to leverage its expertise in network technology to support India’s transition to Industry 4.0.
The findings from this research could contribute to global advancements in industrial digitalization, offering insights into how telecom networks can support next-generation manufacturing.
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