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AT&T to set 5G first at Cowboys stadium

AT&T Stadium is set to be the first US sports venue to boast a 5G network, thanks to efforts from the naming rights partner of the home of NFL American football franchise the Dallas Cowboys.

Telco AT&T said it will be the first US carrier to install such technology, with its 5G network to be introduced in the coming months. AT&T said its customers used more than 155 TB of mobile data – the equivalent of sending about 400 million selfies – this year alone at AT&T Stadium.

Igal Elbaz, senior vice-president of wireless technology at AT&T, said: “Some hear 5G and just think it means faster connection speeds. However, it goes beyond that. 5G is expected to alter the in-stadium experience in dramatic, exciting ways by blurring the physical and digital experience in ways that are simply not possible on today’s networks.”

AT&T said that it foresees that 5G will enable fans to blend their physical experience with virtual augmentation at AT&T Stadium. The telco said fans could get an insight into victory celebrations in the locker room through VR glasses connected to their smartphone, or watch an instant replay in crystal clear 360-degree video while queuing for the restroom or concessions.

“Since opening AT&T Stadium in 2009, our vision and focus was to remain on the cutting edge in every facet of our building,” said Dallas Cowboys chief brand officer Charlotte Jones Anderson.

“Together with our strong collaboration with AT&T producing the most innovative technology that the world has to offer, we believe this announcement only further enhances the fan experience that can only be offered at AT&T Stadium.”

Image: Drew Tarvin