In a groundbreaking experiment conducted in December 2024, KDDI tested its AI-powered drones in Nanao City, Ishikawa Prefecture, to assist with police operations. Leveraging convenience stores as drone launch and landing hubs, the trial demonstrated how emergency responses could be streamlined to under 10 minutes.
Creating the “Community Disaster Relief Convenience Store” Model
The devastating Noto Peninsula Earthquake and Oku-Noto heavy rains catalyzed KDDI’s concept for a “community disaster relief convenience store.” Through a partnership with Ishikawa Prefecture, KDDI began building a model that combines everyday functionality with emergency readiness.
Hiroji Matsuda, KDDI’s Executive Officer and CDO, emphasized the importance of a “phase-free” approach: integrating solutions for both normal and disaster times to maximize investment value. By embedding its advanced communication technologies into this infrastructure, KDDI aims to redefine regional disaster response capabilities.
Inside the AI Drone Experiment
According to KDDI, the December 23 experiment used Lawson Nanao Kojima Town store as a drone base. A metal-pipe structure on the rooftop served as the takeoff and landing pad. The trial focused on two scenarios designed to improve police operations:
- Search for a Missing Person:
Following a simulated report of a missing individual near Komaruyama Castle Park, an AI drone was dispatched. Equipped with a thermal camera, it conducted an aerial search and successfully located the subject. Real-time data, including precise coordinates, was transmitted back to police officers for immediate action.- Traffic Accident Management:
A second scenario involved rapid drone deployment to a simulated accident site. The drone provided live footage of the scene, aiding in situational assessment and resource allocation.
The results highlighted the potential of drones to enhance efficiency in time-critical situations.
Beyond Emergencies: Everyday Drone Applications
KDDI is exploring versatile drone applications across different regional contexts, focusing on addressing community-specific challenges. The company is developing drone solutions for:
- Wildlife monitoring
- Illegal fishing prevention
- Anti-poaching measures
- Bear intrusion tracking
- General crime prevention
These drone deployments are tailored to meet unique local needs, demonstrating the technology’s adaptability in supporting community safety and environmental protection.
Innovations Driving the Future of Drone Technology
The upcoming Dock for X10 drone port, to be released in 2025, signifies a considerable advancement in drone technology. The Dock’s autonomous takeoff, landing, and charging features will allow for 24/7 drone operations, even in remote locations, thanks to direct communication via Starlink.
The technology’s scalability is evident in the vision of a single operator controlling multiple drones. While broader applications like product delivery face regulatory and technical hurdles, the success of targeted trials paves the way for incremental adoption.
A Strategic Path Forward
KDDI is taking a practical approach to innovation with its AI drone initiative. The company is focusing on high-impact use cases that can be implemented immediately, such as police support and infrastructure inspection. These early successes are helping KDDI build trust and expertise in the field. As regulations evolve and technology advances, drones could become a common part of everyday life.
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