Nokia’s 5G 360° camera brings immersive video to harsh conditions

Nokia has launched the world’s first 5G-enabled 360° camera designed specifically for industrial applications. The announcement, made on December 10, 2024, highlights the camera’s ability to deliver 8K video streaming with spatial audio across various connectivity options, including 5G, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. Created to withstand extreme industrial environments, it features rugged specifications such as an IP67 water resistance rating and shock resistance. The product aims to enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency in industrial settings.

The Nokia 360 Camera offers innovative multimedia capabilities suitable for demanding conditions. By leveraging 5G technology, this camera enables low-latency, high-resolution video streaming, significantly reducing the necessity for multiple cameras at industrial sites. Customers can choose between a standard Wi-Fi variant, which presents a cost-effective solution for 8K streaming, or a specialized 5G variant designed to function optimally under extreme temperatures.

Additionally, the camera comes equipped with cyber-secure software and built-in security hardware, catering to the growing concerns regarding operational security in industrial environments. It is specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with the Nokia Real-time eXtended Reality Multimedia (RXRM) software, which allows for real-time analytics, overlays, and other advanced functionalities.

Already deployed in Pyhäsalmi Mine, Europe’s deepest mine, the camera serves multiple purposes—from research and development to remote operations training. This practical application, undertaken with the Finnish company Callio Pyhäjärvi, showcases the camera’s potential in real-world, rugged applications.

Sami Ranta, General Manager of RXRM at Nokia, emphasized the product’s significance, stating: “Nokia RXRM allows industrial customers to enhance their business processes, saving costs from product support to field operations.” He noted that integrating a 5G-enabled industrial camera into the RXRM offering creates a comprehensive solution for remote monitoring, situational awareness, and teleoperation.

The deployment of the Nokia 360 Camera promises to transform industrial processes, facilitating safer and more efficient operations. With the ability to stream immersive 360° video along with 3D audio, users gain heightened situational awareness, enhancing decision-making capabilities in high-stakes environments. The availability of multiple connectivity options permits flexibility for various deployment scenarios, minimizing downtime and streamlining operations.

Nokia’s RXRM platform complements the camera’s functionalities by providing APIs that enable the integration of artificial intelligence and analytics capabilities. Some of the applications of this technology within the industrial sector include remote inspections, teleoperations, and even capabilities in large-scale events like stadium sports.

Sakari Nokela, Chief Development Officer at Callio Pyhäjärvi, highlighted the camera’s innovation, stating, “The Nokia 5G 360 Camera is a true innovation for demanding industrial use cases.” The feedback from early RXRM customers indicates a positive reception and lays the groundwork for future advancements in immersive live streaming technology.

Featured image credit: Nokia