Launch of 'APAS Platform', a Geospatial Analysis Platform for Traffic Safety

Sony Network Communications Inc. (hereinafter 'the Company') has launched the 'APAS Platform,' a geospatial analysis platform specialized in visualizing and analyzing traffic accident risks for 'vulnerable road users' such as pedestrians and cyclists.

This service was developed through repeated field tests of pedestrian-advanced safety support systems using GPS trackers, conducted by the Company and Sony Group Corporation since 2024. To reduce accident risks for pedestrians and cyclists—particularly for children commuting to and from school—the Company will collaborate with stakeholders across industry, government, and academia to promote the social implementation of the APAS Platform and its related services, aiming to contribute to a society where everyone can live safely without accidents.

■ What is the APAS Platform?
The APAS Platform is an advanced analysis infrastructure where AI calculates potential accident risks by comprehensively combining dynamic human flow data collected from GPS tracking devices and smartphone apps with static geospatial data such as accident information, traffic volume, topography, building layouts, and population data. Unlike conventional methods that rely heavily on automobile traffic volume or sparse traffic accident data, it enables risk detection at the road link unit level, tailored to both automotive and pedestrian perspectives.

■ Features of the APAS Platform
1. Collection of Behavioral Data and Visualization of 'Invisible Risks'
By utilizing sensors in GPS trackers and smartphones carried by children, the platform detects dangerous behaviors such as 'sudden darting' or 'wobbling.' By recording, converting, and analyzing these as risks adjacent to the roadway, it visualizes potential risks that are difficult for drivers to see.

2. Data Integration, Analysis, and Complementing Data Gaps
By applying 'topological clustering' to granular road links, the platform features logic for statistically reverse-estimating traffic volume on residential roads without sensors, as well as virtual sidewalk estimation to infer paths not on maps, achieving highly accurate analysis.

3. Information Presentation to Diverse Systems and Automated Generation of Safety Materials
Analysis results can be utilized for information linkage with automotive and navigation systems, as well as for the automated generation of digital educational materials and safety learning map apps unique to local regions or schools.

■ Contribution to Traffic Accident Reduction Education for Children
The Company supports improvements in children's proactive traffic safety awareness through the 'Smart Safety Map' app and the inquiry-based learning program 'Our Town Safety Research Classroom.'

■ Future Service Expansion
The Company will commence nationwide expansion in collaboration with Sompo Japan Insurance Inc. and initiate comprehensive traffic safety support for Nishitokyo City, Tokyo, starting in the 2026 fiscal year.