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5G tech rolled out at Optus Stadium

Telecommunications company Optus has completed its rollout of 5G technology at Perth’s Optus Stadium as it looks to enhance connectivity at the 60,000-seat venue.

The rollout will cover the stadium and the pitch, with all corporate suites and seating areas to receive 5G connectivity courtesy of Optus, the venue’s naming-rights sponsor.

Optus has also integrated 5G into the Optus Stadium Tour package, offering an immersive experience for tour patrons. Guests using a Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra phone will be able to sample a day-to-night view of the stadium, including its lights show, by using 5G-powered augmented reality.

Optus plans on launching additional content over the coming months and views 5G as key to creating innovative new experiences for sports and entertainment events. Optus customers visiting the stadium who have a compatible handset will benefit from the new 5G technology through faster download speeds and a more reliable video and app streaming experience.

Optus chief executive Kelly Bayer Rosmarin said: “5G will be transformative in the home, at work and when we are at play, like cheering on your team or singing along to your favourite artist.

“We know people have been eager to get back into Optus Stadium with a full crowd and with Optus 5G now enabled throughout the stadium, fans will be able to connect at the speed of their excitement. This next-generation technology has the potential to revolutionise the way sport and live entertainment is enjoyed.”

The 5G switch-on has been made possible with the support of the Government of Western Australia, stadium technology delivery partner Nokia and Venues Live.

Tommi Uitto, president of mobile networks at Nokia, said: “We are proud to support Optus in their pioneering efforts to deliver compelling 5G indoor and outdoor coverage at Optus Stadium. While access to public events has been impacted in the current environment, Optus’ 5G network will ensure extraordinary 5G experiences for all in readiness for spectators filling stadiums to capacity again.”

Optus Stadium opened in January 2018 and is used to host a number of sports, including cricket, AFL, football, rugby union and rugby league. The venue has also welcomed a host of high-profile music acts, including Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Eminem and Guns N’ Roses.

Optus currently has more than 1,000 5G sites switched on, with more than 100 of these in Western Australia.

Image: Optus Stadium