This is a pretty neat idea.
Communications companies Qualcomm and AT&T today announced plans to start testing Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS, also known as drones) on cellular networks later this month. The goal is to analyze how drones can operate safely and more securely on commercial 4G LTE and future networks such as 5G.
The trials will take place at Qualcomm’s UAS Flight Center in San Diego, where engineers will work to mimic commercial, residential and uninhabited areas.
The team will examine coverage, signal, strength, and mobility across network cells as drones fly. Drones right now are only useful as they remain in view of the operator’s visual range. One way to break that limit is to rely on carriers, opening up the door for drones performing deliveries, remote inspections, and exploration.
That and drones are pretty darn nifty to boot.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via VentureBeat