Perth’s Optus Stadium becomes Australia’s first 5G ‘smart’ arena

Perth’s 60,000-capacity Optus Stadium has become Australia’s first 5G smart arena.

It promises faster downloads, 3D tours of the event, more reliable video and app streaming, and eventually more interactive augmented reality elements that will allow fans to use the Optus app to get a view of the show from the drummer’s podium, or sing along next to the guitarist.

The app allows fans to order food and beverages to their seats, instead of having to queue.

Optus CEO 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.”

Technology testing

The 5G connectivity includes the stadium, the grounds, the corporate suites and seating areas.

Optus has also integrated 5G into the Optus Stadium Tour offering an immersive and interactive experience for patrons via a Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra.

Future experience includes immediate entry through facial recognition technology without the need for ticket and ID, and the ability to replay a key moment of the event in crystal-clear vision.

Optus Stadium CEO, Mike McKenna, emphasised that the simultaneous demand on the network by a 60,000-strong crowd would not be a problem.

“We believe in a Fans First philosophy at Optus Stadium and delivering 5G at the venue means the game day or concert night experience will be even better for fans,” he said.

The 5G switch-on at Optus Stadium was a collaboration of the WA Government, stadium operator Venues Live  and stadium technology delivery partner Nokia.