This project will generate a beyond-state-of-the-art robot telepresence system that will enable people to visit remote locations and interact with others by operating a robot body using virtual reality and wearable computing interfaces. Users will see through the robot's eyes, hear what the robot hears, and will be able to control the robot's movements in its environment, including the movement of arms and hands. This technology will make use of cloud computing and low-latency 5G communications to provide a compelling, immersive and user-friendly experience that will be as close to 'being there' as is possible without actual travel.

We are targeting market opportunities in property management, exhibitions and conferences, and telecare, all three of which are sectors that have been substantially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and its ensuing impacts on travel and personal contact. These industries are also facing increasing challenges in order to become more environmentally sustainable. Immersive telepresence can provide alternative ways to view and manage properties, meet people and attend public events, and provide forms of healthcare that are safe, low-carbon, and sustainable. We are committed to inclusive technology development and will consult with users with physical and sensory impairments in to order to create accessible and affordable solutions to immersive telepresence that operate across a range of commercially available robots.