Qualcomm, MLB take a swing at improved connectivity
In yet another example highlighting the growing importance of mobile broadband technology to the success of major sporting events, Qualcomm (NASDAQ:QCOM) and MLB Advanced Media (MLBAM)--the company handling interactive media and Internet company for Major League Baseball--signed a multi-year agreement aimed at solving connectivity challenges in certain ballparks. In addition, Qualcomm is now an official technology partner of MLBAM.
Engineers from the chipmaker's Qualcomm Technologies subsidiary will provide in-ballpark assessment and planning at select ballparks during the next two years, where they will conduct extensive tests to ensure Wi-Fi, 3G and LTE connectivity is optimized.
"Qualcomm has been preparing for an astounding 1000x increase in data demand, and we are leading the charge with MLBAM to provide passionate baseball fans with access to digital content, resulting in unparalleled in-ballpark experiences," said Anand Chandrasekher, Qualcomm senior vice president and CMO.
The league has been working this year to improve the baseball experience via improved communications for not only game attendees but team coaches and managers as well.
In January, T-Mobile USA announced a multi-year deal under which it became the MLB's official wireless sponsor and agreed to power a new on-field wireless communication system connecting managers in select MLB dugouts to coaches in bullpens. The new systems will make use of picocell technology installed into teams' dugouts.
T-Mobile also is expected to leverage its modernized HSPA+ and LTE networks to enhance and expand wireless coverage and connectivity at MLB games for attending fans.
Further, the operator and MLBAM are partnering to create digital media experiences optimized for smartphones and tablets, with an emphasis on customized content available exclusively for the carrier's subscribers.
MLBAM manages the official league site, www.MLB.com, and each of the 30 individual Club sites. MLBAM claims to power more live events on the Internet than any other website in the world.
- see this Qualcomm release
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