The upcoming Paris Olympics, scheduled for July 26 to August 11, 2024, is poised to showcase an impressive array of technology to ensure its smooth operation. Organizers have outlined ambitious plans, including 12,000 connected screens, 8,000 WiFi terminals, and 13,000 computers linked by almost 250,000 miles of fiber-optic cable. Unlike traditional paper tickets, the 2024 Paris Olympics will exclusively rely on digital tickets. To accommodate the technological demands, 5G testing is already in progress, with Orange Events, an event-tech company, conducting successful trials to assess network resilience under the anticipated high traffic during the event.
The testing phase is crucial for evaluating tech solutions across Olympic sites, preparing for the deployment of 5G networks, particularly in select venues where private 5G networks will be utilized. These networks aim to enhance video coverage by deploying small cameras in proximity to athletes, offering viewers an immersive experience. Bruno Marie-Rose, Chief Information and Technology Officer of the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee, highlighted the goal of leveraging technology for direct benefits to the event. Private 5G networks are expected to facilitate the broadcast of mobile TV images in scenarios where wired cabling is impractical.
During the opening ceremony, athletes at the Paris Olympics will parade down the Seine River in boats, and to provide immersive video coverage, private 5G networks will be employed. The challenges of installing physical cables on moving boats and addressing the mobile coverage needs of spectators along the quays will be tackled using 5G technology. The trial conducted this summer has helped Orange expand its 5G coverage across France, reinforcing connectivity on all Olympic sites. Beyond enhancing the consumer experience, the increased 5G mobile capacity is anticipated to provide additional services, such as haptic tablets for blind individuals to follow events in real-time, making the Games more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience. Ultimately, the deployment of technology aims to support athletes in delivering peak performances during the Olympic and Paralympic competitions.
