StarHub launches autonomous delivery robot

Singapore’s StarHub has entered a partnership with ST Kinetics to supply autonomous delivery robots to local businesses.

Under the partnership, the companies will deploy Aethon TUG robots to business environments, starting with a roll out in three hotels to streamline the laundry supply chain.

TUG robots (pictured) were designed by ST Engineering’s land systems business Aethon. They are designed to transport materials of up to 635kg per trip.

The robots are integrated with a customer’s Wi-Fi infrastructure, elevator and IT systems to allow it to navigate autonomously on premises, including by opening doors and riding elevators.

TUG will be the second robotics solution introduced by StarHub for corporate customers. The operator is offering managed robotics solutions through an as a service business model, which includes round-the-clock technical support and maintenance services.

In addition, the partnership is part of StarHub’s connected building initiative to provide IoT solutions for companies to solve environmental sustainability, productivity or safety challenges.

“Faced with continued manpower crunch, the hospitality industry is increasingly turning to innovation and automation to drive better business outcomes,” StarHub chief of enterprise Dr Chong Yoke Sin said.

“We are pleased to partner ST Kinetics to offer the TUG to our customers, for tasks involving heavy lifting. This can help reduce lifting hazards and boost productivity, ultimately saving costs for customers.”