US telco Verizon has signed a new 5G partnership with the National Football League.
Under the two-year deal, Verizon will become the Official 5G Innovation Partner of the NFL.
Verizon will jointly develop new products and services that utilise 5G and other future technologies to enhance NFL games and the fan experience.
In its early stages, the deal will be focused on the three pillars:
- In-Stadium Experience: Verizon and the NFL will develop new in-stadium mobile features designed to enhance fan experience through 5G connectivity
- 5G Mobile Gaming Challenge: Verizon and the NFL will call on game developers to create one or more NFL-themed mobile games powered by 5G. The game(s) will be designed to showcase the power of 5G technology.
- Emerging Video Streaming Technology: Verizon will explore use of 5G to stream 360-degree video for the development of new fan experiences and applications.
Verizon has been an NFL partner for over 10 years, and the new partnership builds on their existing relationship.
Under the previous partnership, Verizon already held the rights to distribute live games and other NFL content across its mobile network and through Verizon Media’s Yahoo! Sports platform.
Verizon also coordinated with individual NFL teams and venues to help improve connectivity for fans, and ran the Verizon Up rewards programme at key NFL events such as the Super Bowl, Pro Bowl, and the NFL Draft. These activities will continue under the new deal.