Demonstration of Remote Farming Technology Using Next-Generation Network IOWN APN at Expo 2025 Japan

[Overview]

NTT and Hokkaido University have connected the Expo venue and Hokkaido University—located approximately 1,200 kilometers apart—using NTT Group's next-generation network IOWN APN¹, which enables low end-to-end latency, high transmission capacity communication. This allows for the remote monitoring and operation of a robotic tractor located on the university's farm, with no sense of distance felt by the operator at the Expo venue.

While robotic tractors can operate autonomously, it becomes a serious problem if an obstacle appears during operation or if the GNSS signal, which provides location information, becomes unstable. In such cases, real-time video from the camera mounted on the front of the robotic tractor is sent to the remote control center. The operator can then view this footage to steer the tractor remotely and continue the work.

To achieve seamless remote monitoring and operation without a sense of distance, the demonstration incorporates two key technologies.

The first addresses the difficulty of judging distance through a monitor. Hokkaido University has developed a visual support system that displays distance gauges and guiding lines on the screen, enabling operators to better understand spatial relationships from a distance. This technology enables even those with no prior experience to operate robotic tractors with confidence. Since the system uses a familiar game controller for operation, even children can easily and naturally experience driving a real tractor.

The second technology solves the problem of video delay during long-distance, high-volume transmission, which can make real-time remote control difficult. By using NTT Group's next-generation network IOWN APN, which features low power consumption, high capacity and quality, and ultra-low latency, the remote operation system and the robotic tractor are connected in a way that allows for smooth operation with virtually no delay—even over long distances.

In addition, to avoid the trial-and-error risks associated with testing robotic farm equipment in the fields, a digital twin-based virtual farm has also been constructed. Within this environment, simulations are conducted in advance to verify that tasks can be performed safely and appropriately. Visitors can also experience a mixed-reality demonstration that integrates the virtual farm with the real-world agricultural site.

Figure 1 Conceptual Image of the Remote Farming Technology Demonstration at the Expo

[Purpose]

In Japan, robotic agricultural machinery was implemented in society ahead of the rest of the world starting in 2018. However, current technology only allows one person to monitor one robot at a time. To achieve significant labor savings, it is essential to develop remote farming technologies that enable one person to operate multiple robotic machines simultaneously.

In response to this need, Hokkaido University is collaborating with NTT to conduct research and development on remote monitoring and operation of robotic agricultural machinery using next-generation communication technologies². Among these efforts, remote operation technology is a key component required for deploying such systems in actual farming environments.

In addition, this initiative aims to offer hands-on experiences related to food production—even to those who have never seen a tractor, including children—allowing them to connect with and imagine the future of agriculture.

[About the Expo]
Theme: Designing Future Society for Our Lives
Duration: April 13 (Sunday) - October 13 (Monday), 2025 (184 days)
Venue: Yumeshima, Osaka
Official Website: https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/

[Glossary]

¹IOWN APN (All-Photonics Network)
IOWN (Innovative Optical and Wireless Network) consists of three core components: the All-Photonics Network (APN), which extends photonics-based technology beyond networks to include devices and processing; Digital Twin Computing, which enables advanced and real-time interactions between people and things in cyberspace; and Cognitive Foundation^®, which efficiently deploys a wide range of ICT resources.
The APN introduces cutting-edge optical technologies not only in the network but also within devices and even at the chip level. This innovation enables ultra-low power consumption and ultra-high-speed processing that were previously difficult to achieve. By allocating different wavelengths on a single optical fiber for each function, APN can provide multiple essential services—such as internet communication and sensing—simultaneously, without interference, supporting critical social infrastructure.
https://www.rd.ntt/e/iown/

²Hokkaido University and NTT are jointly conducting research on next-generation primary industry, including initiatives involving agricultural digital twins. Please visit the press release below for more details.
https://group.ntt/en/newsrelease/2025/04/07/250407a.html

About NTT

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