AR, 5G set to transform Tokyo Olympics fan experience

The Tokyo Organizing Committee today took the wraps off some next-generation spectator viewing technologies that will be part of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. AR, 5G, and even 12K will help spectators at sailing, swimming and golf get closer than ever to the action.

A 50-metre video board will deliver 12K images via 5G for sailing events at the Olympics

Spectators at the sailing venue (Enoshima Yacht Harbor), for example, will be able to watch a 50-metre wide video screen that will receive a 12K video signal via 5G and give spectators on shore a chance to get much closer to sailing action that typically requires binoculars and, even then, can feel a world away. That demonstration will take place on 25-27 July during the Olympics and 27-29 August during the Paralympics.

AR glasses will give swimming fans at the Olympics more data and information

AR will be front and centre at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre where spectators in specific seats will be provided with wearable AR devices which will display detailed race information during the events. Using ultra-fast 5G technology, data will be transmitted swiftly to the AR devices and spectators will be able to see a leaderboard as well as lane information including name and nation flag. That demonstration will be held on 31 July-1 August 1 and 6-7 August.

Olympic golf fans will be able to rent 5G-capable devices at the Olympics

Lastly, the fanzone at Kasumigaseki Country Club, home to the golf events, will provide rental devices with 5G connectivity that will allow fans to watch live video of a specific golfer, highlight clips, feeds and more.

Intel Corporation, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation (NTT) and NTT DOCOMO will provide the technology and NHK and the Japan Commercial Broadcasters Association will play a role.