Du and Nokia Networks revealed on Tuesday they have been using drones to carry out mobile network testing an d optimisation.
The proof of concept (PoC) saw drones carrying smartphones equipped with network testing applications measure Du’s network KPIs at Dubai International Stadium at Dubai Sports City. Nokia analysed the data, drawing up recommendations where necessary in order to improve performance.
"With the use of drones we continue to bring innovation and automation into our service delivery to make our networks even more efficient and reliable," said Tony Awad, head of the Du customer team at Nokia Networks, in a statement.
Du and Nokia also carried out cell tower inspections using drones, reducing the number of times technicians need to climb up and down a telecom tower, and demonstrating that drones could be useful when adverse weather conditions make climbing potentially dangerous.
In addition, the two companies used drones to conduct line-of-sight testing and radio planning, making it easier to establish suitable antenna height and site location.
"Together with Nokia Networks, we are satisfied with the results from the use of drones for network planning and faster optimisation in [a] specific location at Dubai International Stadium, as well as for radio planning and tower inspection, which will result in greater efficiency and improved safety," said Marwan BinShakar, vice president of mobile access network and operations at Du.
