Have you ever thought about increasing stadium efficiency through technology? The link between technology and sporting events might not be obvious, but the two are becoming increasingly intertwined. After all, if you’re watching the big game from your home, it’s thanks to some extremely advanced cameras, equipment, screens and second screens, including smartphones and tablets. Even fans who attend live sporting events are enjoying more and more technological advancements designed to enhance the game. Both college and professional teams across the U.S. are taking advantage of new technology, creating “smart stadiums” that improve the gametime experience for sports fans everywhere.
What is a Smart Stadium?
A smart stadium is a little bit different than a green stadium in that it makes the most of emerging technologies. It can mean a stadium that provides cell coverage or Wi-Fi access for stadium visitors. It could also mean that a stadium that’s home to even more exciting technology. The NFL recently put in place cell coverage and Wi-Fi standards, which each of its league stadiums will be required to meet by the end of 2014. It’s part of a big push to improve the experience of visiting a stadium, as well as to increase the value of NFL tickets.
While people watching football at home have access to their favorite mobile devices at all times, stadium visitors have long had to make do with shoddy or outdated Internet – or go without Internet connectivity at all. But things are about to change – 13 NFL stadiums currently boast Wi-Fi networks, with many more on the way. Soon, it will be easier than ever to upload photos and check fantasy league stats on-the-fly while at a game.
It’s Not Just About Wirelessi
While allowing sports fans to use their smartphones and tablets during games is a big part of the NFL’s goal, there is also a host of other tech features being rolled out to stadiums across the country.
One example? Sun Life Stadium in Miami. One of the biggest frustrations with attending a sporting event is finding a parking spot, and the Sun Life Stadium is going to great lengths to mitigate that problem. Fans can now use the Internet to find the closest available parking spots, and be alerted if nearby lots are already at full capacity.
Another cool innovation? Gameday apps that aim to improve the stadium experience. At Gillette Stadium, Patriots fans can use a mobile app to find the shortest bathroom and concession lines. A similar app is in the works for the 49ers’ new Levi’s Stadium.
Technology is being put to work in increasingly unusual places in smart stadiums. The University of Phoenix Stadium is carpeted with retractable grass, meaning that it can be used for a variety of activities in addition to football. It rightfully boasts of being a “truly multipurpose stadium.”
High-Tech Partnerships
Some of the most exciting milestones in the growth of stadium technology are thanks to partnerships with technology companies. Take, for example, the Tampa Bay Bucaneers and their recent partnership with Verizon. Verizon’s FiOS Quantum Internet service offers some of the fastest speeds currently available, making it a perfect match for a packed football stadium. And Dallas’s newly-renamed AT&T Stadium provides fans with access to the wireless provider’s fast 4G LTE network.
Smart stadiums are becoming increasingly common; the future is looking bright indeed for sports fans everywhere.
