This is a big year for Wembley Stadium, as not only is the FA Cup final on the horizon, but this summer it will also host Oasis, Dua Lipa, and more. And at big events like these, its mobile connectivity will really be put to the test.
That’s why O2 has announced that it has upgraded its mobile network in and around the stadium. O2’s 5G Standalone network is now available within Wembley Stadium, meaning there’s no 4G infrastructure in the mix if you have a 5G phone, allowing for higher speeds and greater reliability.
O2 claims this will enable its customers to use 5G to stream, share, and connect in real time, throughout the stands, concourses, and hospitality areas, even when the stadium is full, and with thousands of other people trying to access the network.
Steven Verigotta, Director of Radio & Mobile Backhaul Delivery at O2 said: “Wembley is one of the UK’s most iconic venues and this summer promises to be one of its biggest in living memory, from the FA Cup Final to the long-awaited return of Oasis. Our investment in and around the stadium is designed to give a huge capacity boost to O2 customers attending these events, so they have the best possible experience.”
Inside and out
As noted in that comment it’s not just the inside of Wembley Stadium that’s had a network upgrade, as O2 has also installed seven small cells outside the stadium, as well as upgrading two nearby towers, which collectively should provide improved coverage and capacity for residents, visitors, and businesses in the area.
With more than 2.5 million people set to attend a record number of events at Wembley Stadium this summer, this sounds like a well-timed upgrade.
This isn’t the only place O2 is investing in though, as this is just one part of the network’s Mobile Transformation Plan, which will see O2 invest around £700 million this year in an effort to future-proof its network with improved 4G and 5G coverage, and boosted capacity.
