Redefining Sports and Entertainment with Mobile Innovation
The sports and entertainment industries are entering a new era, fuelled by rapid advancements in mobile technologies. At the forefront of this transformation, GSMA is enabling innovation that enhances fan engagement, streamlines operations, and creates immersive experiences. Our initiatives in 5G connectivity, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) are setting new standards for the industry. These advancements ensure audiences worldwide enjoy unprecedented access and interaction with their favourite events and content.
“The integration of 5G and immersive technologies, such as multi-view streaming and real-time AR overlays, is reshaping the way fans experience sports and entertainment, bringing them closer to the action than ever before. These advancements enable ultra-low latency connections and unprecedented levels of interaction, revolutionising fan engagement on a global scale.”
– Faisal Zia, Technical Director, GSMA Foundry
GSMA’s Role in Transforming Sports and Entertainment
Driving Connectivity Standards
GSMA collaborates with telecom operators and industry stakeholders to accelerate the deployment of 5G and other advanced mobile technologies, ensuring seamless, high-speed connectivity for global audiences.
Providing Data and Insights
With tools like GSMA Intelligence, we deliver insights into emerging trends and the latest developments in mobile-enabled technologies.
Together, these efforts empower the sports and entertainment industries to redefine fan engagement, enhance operational efficiencies, and create immersive experiences on a global scale.
Promoting Industry Innovation
Through initiatives like MWC and GSMA Intelligence, we bring together thought leaders and innovators to explore cutting-edge technologies and their applications in sports and entertainment.
Fostering Ecosystem Collaboration
Fostering Ecosystem Collaboration: GSMA acts as a bridge between mobile operators, device manufacturers, and technology providers, facilitating partnerships that create impactful solutions.
MWC Barcelona: Sports & Entertainment Summit
Join us at MWC Barcelona 2025 on Thursday 6 March at the Sports & Entertainment Summit to experience cutting-edge innovation and discover how mobile connectivity and technologies are revolutionising fan engagement and enhancing operational efficiency in sports and entertainment.
GSMA collaborates with industry leaders to deploy 5G networks in large venues, enhancing connectivity and enabling real-time data sharing.
Example: Verizon’s 5G in over 60 U.S. venues allows fans to watch live action and instant replays through multi-view technology.
Potential Impact: 90% reduction in live event production costs with 5G connectivity.
Immersive Broadcasting
With advancements in AR and VR, GSMA supports technologies that enrich fan experiences both in-stadium and remotely.
Example: Multiple high-definition video streams empower fans to customise their viewing experiences.
Potential Impact: 67% annual growth in data usage within sports venues globally.
AI Applications
Through AI-powered tools, athletes receive personalised training and performance analytics to optimise strategies.
Example: Analyses game footage, monitors biometrics, and offers actionable strategies to coaches.
Impact: Prevents injuries by predicting fatigue, enhances decision-making with real-time insights, and improves athletic performance through data-driven optimisation.
Highlight key statistics and industry insights
67% Annual Growth in Data Usage: Sports venues are becoming hubs of digital interaction.
320.7 Mbps Speeds in Venues: Verizon’s 5G capabilities in NFL stadiums demonstrate the transformative power of connectivity.
90% Cost Reduction: 5G-enabled remote production makes live events more accessible.