By Juan Pedro Tomás
Verizon and the NFL announced a 10-year partnership with the aim of using 5G to support innovation and technology adoption throughout the league.
The partners noted that the more than 10-year relationship between the NFL and Verizon had paved the way for the installation of Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband service in parts of 25 NFL stadiums.
Over the next decade, Verizon and the NFL say they will utilize 5G to unlock advancements that could have the ability to impact management, scouting, training, health and safety and game day operations.
“The NFL has embraced innovation for decades to bring fans closer to the game, from instant replay technology to outfitting players with microphones,” said chairman and CEO at Verizon, Hans Vestberg. “Our longstanding relationship, and swift delivery of 5G connectivity in 25 stadiums, has created new ways to bring fans even closer to the action. As we embark on the next 10 years, our work with the NFL will continue to enhance and transform not only the fan experience, but also has the potential to improve player training and overall venue operations.”
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said: “As we look to the next decade with our trusted partner, Verizon will help us capitalize on the promise of 5G technology, paving the way for the future of the game and delivering incredible experiences for millions of NFL fans.”
Verizon has also partnered with the NFL on in-stadium fan experiences like Verizon 5G Multi-View, which enables fans to view up to seven simultaneous camera angles and AR overlays of the NFL’s Next Gen Stats on select 5G-enabled phones.
In the future, 5G could support real-time analytics and visualizations for coaches and players, giving them a whole new ability to learn from the last play and prepare for the next one. 5G-enabled NFL venues could be turned into digital arenas that can host mobile-gaming events with real-time, on-site multiplayer action, Verizon said.
The carrier also noted that 5G coverage throughout venues gives operators the opportunity to unlock solutions that impact fan experience, public safety, access control, concessions, and crowd management.
Verizon is working with technology companies to bring to life brand new experiences within stadiums and venues around the country. For example, Verizon is currently collaborating to pair LIDAR technology with Verizon 5G Edge to help venue owners gain real-time information on crowd patterns, so they can make immediate decisions to help improve the flow of people.
