Verizon and the NFL have partnered to jointly develop new products and services that utilize 5G and other future technologies to enhance NFL games and the overall fan experience, the two organizations announced today. The two-year Verizon, NFL 5G agreement positions Verizon as “The Official 5G Innovation Partner of the NFL.”
There are three main offerings for professional football fans, all designed to highlight the capabilities of 5G:
- In-Stadium Experience: Verizon and the NFL will use the capabilities of 5G to develop new in-stadium mobile features designed to enhance the in-stadium fan experience.
- 5G Mobile Gaming Challenge: Game developers will be sought to create one or more NFL-themed mobile games powered by 5G.
- Emerging Video Streaming Technology: Verizon plans to explore use of 5G to stream volumetric video for the development of new fan experiences and applications.
The partnership builds on Verizon’s long-standing partnership with the NFL which includes mobile distribution of live games and other NFL content across its massive mobile network and distributed through Verizon Media’s Yahoo! Sports and experiences for customers enrolled in the Verizon Up rewards program at key NFL events including the Super Bowl, Pro Bowl and the NFL Draft.
“Today’s announcement is another milestone in Verizon’s long-standing relationship with the NFL. The Innovation Partnership will use Verizon’s 5G technology to unlock new and exciting ways for NFL fans to view, share and engage with their favorite teams no matter where they are,” said Hans Vestberg, CEO of Verizon, in a prepared statement.
“For over 10 years now Verizon has been one of our most trusted partners and our work with them has delivered fans incredible access and experiences around the NFL,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, in a prepared statement. “As the promise of 5G technology nears, I’m excited to enter into this innovative partnership with Verizon which should again bring a multitude of benefits to our millions of fans worldwide.”
