Verizon has joined forces with MetLife Stadium, the iconic home of the New York Jets and New York Giants, to announce a substantial network upgrade initiative set to commence in 2024 and beyond. The primary objective of this venture is to meet the burgeoning demand for data services during stadium events, elevating the overall fan experience significantly. In addition to this monumental undertaking, Verizon is extending its longstanding cornerstone partnership with the Giants, Jets, and MetLife Stadium.
MetLife Stadium: A Hub of Activity
MetLife Stadium is currently experiencing unprecedented levels of activity, hosting over 1.2 million guests and a remarkable 18 concerts this summer alone. With the upcoming NFL season on the horizon, featuring back-to-back national night games, including Giants vs. Cowboys on September 10 and Jets vs. Bills on September 11, the stadium is poised for heightened excitement.
Enhancing the Fan Experience
Verizon recognizes that as technology continues to evolve, patrons attending games, concerts, and other events expect more from their wireless technology. Large congregations in venues like football stadiums can strain network resources, prompting Verizon to be proactive about upgrading technology and infrastructure at venues such as MetLife Stadium to cater to customers’ evolving needs.
Verizon’s Cutting-Edge DAS System
Central to Verizon’s upgrade plan is the implementation of a state-of-the-art Distributed Antenna System (DAS) that will provide 4G LTE and 5G Ultra Wideband services using Verizon’s C-Band spectrum across the stadium. This addition complements Verizon’s existing 5G service, which utilizes mmWave spectrum within the stadium. The coverage will extend to the field, bowl, concourse (including the four gate entrances), all clubs/suites, and the ticketing areas.
Tailored Performance Enhancement
Verizon’s DAS system will feature performance enhancement technology capable of segmenting crowds into sectors. This innovative approach allows Verizon engineers to fine-tune performance based on crowd movement and data usage patterns.
Optimizing Fiber Optic Cable Links
In addition to the DAS system, Verizon is also upgrading the fiber optic cable links connecting MetLife Stadium to the broader network. These enhancements will increase the stadium’s data-carrying capacity tenfold, a crucial requirement for supporting the advanced network.
Enriching the Fan Experience
Verizon’s collaboration with MetLife Stadium aims to provide fans attending events with superior connectivity and convenience. Attendees will be able to use their mobile devices during games and events to enhance their overall experience. This includes sharing their experiences, ordering refreshments, navigating the stadium, participating in fan engagements such as sports betting and fantasy leagues, accessing player statistics, and utilizing mobile tickets, among other features, thanks to these network enhancements.
The partnership between Verizon and MetLife Stadium underscores the commitment to delivering an exceptional fan experience by staying at the forefront of technological advancements. The planned network upgrades are set to enhance connectivity, convenience, and overall satisfaction for patrons attending events at this iconic stadium. This collaboration positions MetLife Stadium as a prime venue for future major events, including the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup in 2026.
