Newly branded Boldyn Networks announced 5G connectivity deployments in two sports and entertainment venues, one in the U.S. and another in the U.K. In the U.S., the company has partnered with the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers to bring high-speed wireless connectivity to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, a multi-purpose arena in Cleveland, OH, that is home to the Cavaliers and the Cleveland Monsters AHL hockey team. The new multi-carrier network will deliver enhanced wireless experiences for fans and staff at Cavaliers and Monsters games as well as to the nearly 200 regularly sold-out entertainment events annually.
Boldyn is outfitting the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse with a neutral host indoor distributed antenna system that supports all 5G spectrum bands, including 2.5 GHz and C-band. Once complete, seamless wireless connectivity across the 19,432-seat venue and its surrounding areas will enable the Cavaliers to provide enhanced digital initiatives such as in-venue only non-fungible tokens, virtual and augmented reality, and live visual effects.
“Our fans are the heart and soul of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and it’s our responsibility to provide them with an unparalleled, immersive gameday experience the moment they enter into Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse,” says Michael Conley, Cleveland Cavaliers CIO. “[Boldyn Network’s] expertise in delivering industry-leading 5G technology and commitment to providing state-of-the-art solutions ensures we are well positioned to truly redefine the connected fan experience.”
The Cavaliers’ in-building wireless system will interoperate with Boldyn’s over 100 outdoor small cells installed on deciated poles across the city of Cleveland. These samll cellsoperate on 5G mid-band spectrum and provide enhanced, reliable, and secure mobile coverage for the community. With tens of thousands of fans flocking to the city on game days and for live-entertainment events, seamless connectivity across downtown Cleveland is a critical element of the entire event-going experience.
“We’re thrilled to partner with the Cleveland Cavaliers to bring spectacular and engaging fan experiences to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse,” adds Christos Karmis, CEO of Boldyn Networks’ US. “Our next generation 5G venue infrastructure paired with the small cells we have already deployed across the city will provide fans with seamless connectivity and unparalleled access to the latest technologies and applications, setting an even higher new standard in the world of sports and entertainment.” Boldyn expects to complete the project before the start of the Cavaliers’ new season in the fall.
In the U.K., Boldyn Networks and ASM Global, the entertainment producer and manager, and operator of the First Direct Arena in Leeds, announced the creation of the U.K.’s first 5G neutral host arena. First Direct Arena hosts live music, comedy, entertainment shows and sporting events. This collaboration is designed to bring high-speed, high-capacity mobile connectivity throughout the entire venue, revolutionizing the visitor experience.
Designed and installed by Boldyn, the new 5G multi-carrier wireless network will enhance the experience for fans attending events at the 13,000-capacity arena with streamlined ticketing, efficient visitor entry and venue navigation, and ordering of food and beverages. Sponsors can offer exclusive on-site promotions and audience experiences.
Boldyn Networks’ neutral host network will accommodate all four U.K. mobile network operators – EE, O2, Vodafone, Three UK – while minimizing 5G RAN equipment and power usage.
“We are … very excited to bring 5G to the very first U.K. arena alongside the team at Boldyn Networks,” says Chris Bray, EVP Europe at ASM Global. “Soon, guests at the First Direct Arena … will be able to experience live entertainment with complete connectivity … with high-speed 5G allowing our team on the ground to be even more agile in a fast-paced environment.”
Paul Osborne, Boldyn Networks CCO, UK & Ireland, comments, “The launch of the U.K.’s first 5G neutral host arena represents a significant leap forward in delivering seamless, high-speed connectivity for both fans and venue operators.”
By John Celentano, Inside Towers Business Editor
Reader Interactions