Ships that will sail themselves

ROLLS-Royce is teaming up with Google to help ships learn to steer themselves.

The engine maker will use Google technology that helps computers develop self-driving ships for ferry services, cargo transport and other industries.

The pair inked an agreement at yesterday’s Google summit in Sweden. Google has developed technology that mimics the human brain to help computers learn how to perform complex tasks, using maths and data.

Several companies are trying to develop autonomous ships to help shipping and transportation clients cut down on costs and save time.