Somewhere, John Daly is smiling.
Golfers who hit the links this May on a course outside Tokyo will have the opportunity to get balls, drinks and other refreshments delivered to them by a fleet of drones.
The drones — which are being tested by e-commerce firm Rakuten after they bought a 20% stake in Autonomous Control Systems Laboratory — will deliver to players who have placed orders via smartphone.
Given that it’s common in Japan to take a break after nine holes for a tipple or two, the drones might speed up the run of play to boot. Other benefits: fewer accidents with oncoming beverage carts and the fact that, as far as we know, drones don’t stick their robot hands out for tips.
If the service is well-received, it may pave the way for Rakuten to begin using drones to make deliveries to backyard BBQs or apartment balconies.
Drones have already put some St. Bernards and pizza guys out of business.
Bev-cart gals: you’re next.
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