Cellcom taps Novelsat for in-stadium 5G experience

Israeli mobile operator Cellcom has teamed up with local technology outfit Novelsat to use 5G technology to deliver multi-camera views to fans at live events.

Through the integration of Novelsat’s edge-based media delivery solution within a stadium equipped with Cellcom’s 5G network, this initiative will introduce what the pair describe as an immersive real-time multi-camera viewing experience for in-stadium fans.

Video feeds from various cameras positioned throughout the stadium will be processed by Novelsat’s technology and distributed to fans’ smartphones over Cellcom’s public 5G network.

Utilizing edge-computing capabilities, Novelsat’s technology will stream video content with minimal latency to a dedicated application installed on users’ devices.

The company says the pilot will demonstrate the substantial advantages of edge-based video delivery, offering enhanced video traffic efficiency and an elevated end-user experience quality, while showcasing the potential of 5G to deliver customized, engaging experiences.

“5G is a game-changer for sports and stadium business, stimulating fan experiences. The smartphone in the hand of each fan is generating the opportunity for an interactive and unforgettable fan experience. Novelsat’s edge-based media distribution solution leverages next-generation connectivity to enable new values for connected stadiums. Our pioneering solution ideally addresses the on-site demand for high bandwidth with low latency, offering market-leading video delivery economics for large public venues. Creating a platform that supports the future of interactive stadiums, we empower the vision of the connected fan experience with future-proofed solutions that stay ahead of the game,” said Gary Drutin, CEO of Novelsat.

“The 5G technology enables the advancement of highly innovative products and services across various domains. At Cellcom, we are diligently working to enhance Israel’s most powerful and highest quality 5G network, alongside fostering and developing greater and better experiences for our customers. Stimulating innovation in sports fan experiences aligns perfectly with our mission, and by integrating Novelsat’s expertise in content delivery with our advanced 5G infrastructure, we aim to explore a new dimension of in-stadium entertainment,” said Avi Grinman, Cellcom’s CTO and VP of engineering.