How a Dutch Connectivity Leader is Powering Automated Navigation in Waterborne Urban Areas

At Roboat, we’re always looking ahead – toward smarter, safer, and more efficient automated transport solutions. Yet, true innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It requires strong partnerships, bold experiments, and the right technology to turn ambitious ideas into reality. That’s exactly what’s happening with Odido’s ultra-reliable, low-latency 5G network, which is helping us push the boundaries of automation on the water.

Roboat was built on a simple yet powerful idea: can we make urban waterways more efficient through automation? From the start, connectivity was a major challenge: real-time obstacle detection, remote control, and fleet coordination all demand precise, high-speed data transfer. That’s where 5G comes in.

A key moment came when we tested our vessels in real-world conditions, relying on Odido’s 5G to power critical functions like enhanced situational awareness and advanced navigation. The results? Faster response times, more precise manoeuvring, and a huge step forward in making automated inland water transport a scalable reality.

We’re not stopping here, but taking 5G even further. The next phase of our partnership will focus on measuring 5G stability and reliability across Dutch waterways, exploring real-time commands to enhance safety and performance, and leveraging scalable 5G to optimize operations with data-driven insights.

Read more about how Roboat is shaping the future with 5G on ODIDO.NL – Full Article.