2023 in Review: Top 10 Highlights in 5G Edge and Private Wireless

Midway into January 2024, and we're still riding the wave of our 2023 achievements at Verizon ! Last year was a remarkable chapter of innovation and progress. It was not just about technological advancements but about creating real impact and enhancing experiences. 

From transforming NFL stadium communications to spearheading 5G at the Port of Virginia, we've been at the forefront of connecting the future. Here are some standout moments:

1. NFL Stadiums Communication Upgrade: Last year, our Managed Private Wireless Solution brought a significant change in National Football League (NFL) stadium communications. This technology wasn’t just about tech; it fundamentally transformed how coaches strategize in real-time. The faster, more secure communication channels enhanced the game-day operations and overall sports experience, making it a standout achievement for us. Read more about Verizon and NFL

2. 5G Expansion at Port of Virginia: We're proud of our 5G expansion at the Port of Virginia. This move revolutionized port logistics, boosting efficiency in cargo handling. It's thrilling to see our technology set new benchmarks in smart port operations, highlighting our role in enhancing the efficiency of critical supply chain infrastructures. Explore the Port of Virginia 5G Expansion

3. Holland Ridge Farms Network Solution: Our project at Holland Ridge Farms was a testament to how technology can solve real-world challenges. By implementing a private wireless network, we improved their business operations and visitor experiences, especially during peak events. This project perfectly illustrates our commitment to leveraging technology for practical solutions. Holland Ridge Farms Case Study

4. Rocklahoma Music Festival Connectivity: Our private 5G network at Rocklahoma Music Festival underscored our commitment to enhancing large-scale events. By ensuring seamless operations of essential services, we significantly improved the festival experience for both attendees and organizers, demonstrating the impact of advanced connectivity in event management. Verizon's Rocklahoma Project

5. Collaboration with Zebra Technologies: The partnership with Zebra Technologies was a strategic move to enhance connectivity in industrial environments with device & software solutions to accelerate private 5G. It improved communication and operational efficiency, especially in transportation and manufacturing sectors, showcasing the potential of collaborative technological innovation. Zebra Technologies and Verizon

6. Tennessee Titans Collaboration: Our collaboration with the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium was all about enriching the fan experience. In addition to launching Accelerated Access, which uses opt-in facial authentication tech to verify identities for access control and accelerated ticketing in near real-time, Verizon recently added dozens of 5G Ultra Wideband cell sites at Nissan Stadium, which will provide enhanced wireless performance to customers in the stands starting at regular season games and events this year. Upgrading the stadium's connectivity meant fans could enjoy games and events more immersively, highlighting our focus on enhancing customer experiences through technology. Tennessee Titans Partnership

7. 'Express Entry' at Bank of America Stadium: In partnership with the Carolina Panthers, we introduced 'Express Entry' at Bank of America Stadium. This innovation used facial recognition technology to streamline the entry process, making it quicker and more convenient for fans, and exemplifying how technology can enhance customer experiences in real-life scenarios. Express Entry Experience

8. Cashierless Shops at Eagles Stadium: Another highlight of 2023 was the introduction of cashierless shops at the Eagles Stadium, leveraging Verizon's 5G technology. This innovative use of technology not only enhanced the fan experience by reducing wait times and streamlining purchases but also showcased the practical applications of 5G in improving operational efficiencies in high-traffic environments. Read more about this initiative

9. Private Network for Deloitte’s The Smart Factory @ Wichita: Deploying a private 5G network at Deloitte ’s The Smart Factory @ Wichita was a significant step in advancing Industry 4.0. This initiative enhanced the factory's capabilities, demonstrating the potential of 5G in industrial innovation. Smart Factory Initiative

10. 5G Innovation Session Tour: Our 5G Innovation Sessions was a series of events showcasing the vast potential of 5G technology across various sectors. Held in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, these sessions provided insights into how 5G can revolutionize industries such as healthcare, entertainment, and manufacturing. It was a platform for engaging with industry experts and enthusiasts, and for demonstrating how 5G technology can lead to innovative solutions in the real world. Check out more on the 5G Innovation Series here.

Reflecting on 2023, it's clear we've had an amazing year at Verizon Business ! Each step we took wasn't just about the tech; it was about making real changes in people's lives and how they interact with the world around them. From bringing new energy to NFL stadiums to pushing the boundaries with 5G, we've been busy turning futuristic ideas into today's realities.

As we dive into 2024, I can't help but feel excited about what's coming next. We're not just looking to innovate; we're looking to make a difference, to keep connecting people in ways they never thought possible. Here's to another year of breaking barriers and creating those 'wow' moments!

#vteam