{
  "id": 7514811,
  "title": "ACSA bets R21.7bn on metaverse, patrol robots",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/15/acsa-bets-r21-7bn-on-metaverse-patrol-robots",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-09-15T08:59:40.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ITWeb",
    "slug": "itweb",
    "url": "https://www.itweb.co.za/article/acsa-bets-r217bn-on-metaverse-patrol-robots/5yONP7ErVkeMXWrb"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) is investing R21.7 billion on a metaverse platform called ACSA-Verse and patrol robots as part of its digital transformation toward \"airport 4.0\". This initiative aims to integrate AI, IoT, blockchain, and robotics to optimise airport operations and enhance passenger experience. By 2031, ACSA plans to have developed the metaverse platform, which will use immersive technology to model airport operations and provide real-time information. The first phase of the project will focus on developing a proof of concept. ACSA will also use IoT-enabled devices to monitor air quality, energy use, and optimise space within terminals. Blockchain technology will be integrated into various operations, including baggage tracking, financial transactions, and smart contracts. Robotics will assist passengers with entertainment, information, and security. ACSA's investment plan also includes data analytics to improve performance, passenger trends, and resource allocation. The company believes that these technological advancements will help address risks such as unauthorized aircraft landings, baggage pilferage, insider threats, and cyber attacks. Additionally, real-time data sharing among various airport systems will enable better coordination and decision-making.",
  "summary": "ACSA plans to roll out AI, robotics, blockchain and a metaverse platform as part of a R21.7 billion push towards “airport 4.0” by 2031.",
  "key_points": [
    "ACSA invests R21.7bn in metaverse platform and patrol robots for airport 4.0 transformation",
    "Metaverse ACSA-Verse will use AI, IoT, blockchain, and robotics to optimize operations"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}