UK broadcast & telecom partners secure funding for 5G demo project | Mobile | News | Rapid TV News
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The Digital TV Group (DTG), in partnership with Ateme, Imaginary Pictures, Virgin Media O2 and University of Surrey have secured UK government funding to develop a solution to optimise mobile network performance in high demand density (HDD) environments.
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The 5G ONE4HDD consortium aims to design and deploy a Mobile 'Cell on Wheels' (CoW) equipped with Open RAN (radio access network) technology, offering reliable connectivity in crowded venues and major public gatherings such as music festivals and sporting events.

The DTG says its technical approach involves the development of a portable cell site, capable of serving hundreds of users simultaneously. This cell site will be based Open RAN technology and advanced codecs to ensure high-quality data transmission even in the busiest environments, exploring the provision of services such as over-the-top (OTT) video and emergency broadcasts.

The £2.64 million project has now received £1.47 million from the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) as part of its Open Network Ecosystems competition, an £88m research and development boost for innovative connectivity to future proof UK mobile network. The consortium partners will be supported by CellXica Radios & Wavemobile and Rohde & Schwarz.

“The Digital TV Group and its 5G ONE4HDD consortium partners are delighted to have been selected by DSIT as part of the Open Network Ecosystems competition,” said DTG CTO Alex Buchan. “We believe it is vital that content continues to delight the viewer, wherever they are and whenever they are watching. The 5G ONE4HDD project will address the crucial challenge of delivering reliable mobile connectivity in crowded settings, thereby enhancing user experience and fostering technological innovation in the UK. We’re excited to get to work with an incredible group of experts to drive tangible, positive impacts in the Open RAN space.”

“With new generations seeking experiences that converge video with social media, gaming, and even shoppable TV, seamless connectivity is crucial, especially in crowded spaces,” added CTO Ateme Mickaël Raulet. “We are thrilled to be part of the 5G ONE4HDD consortium alongside such outstanding partners, working together to enable new and exciting experiences for fan communities in high-density environments.”