UAE-based telecom group Etisalat has collaborated with networking leader Ericsson to showcase emerging 5G and Internet of Things (IoT) trends, technology updates, Artificial Intelligence and automation in a technology roadshow.

Etisalat has set a new benchmark in the telecom industry. It became the first operator to launch the first commercial 5G wireless network in Mena in 2018; the first operator in Mena to offer the first available 5G device for consumers to experience 5G; and the first mobile operator in Mena to provide 5G coverage inside an international airport.

‘Barcelona Unboxed’ is aimed at bringing the latest technologies that were showcased on Ericsson’s hall during the Mobile World Congress 2019,  allowing visitors to interact with global experts, experience path-breaking demos and attend in-depth seminars at Etisalat’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi.

The immersive showcase of 5G and IoT technologies included a wide range of demos that redefined user experience, MusiConnect enabled a musical band to virtually play along, making it possible for musicians to perform and practice in real time despite being geographically separated, while the hologram communication highlighted how humans would communicate in the future using 5G technology.

Saeed Al Zarouni, senior vice president, Mobile Network at Etisalat, said: “5G is now a reality due to Etisalat’s continuous efforts in building and investing in future networks to enable innovation, and accelerating digital transformation. One major milestone for Etisalat and the telecom industry was the launch of the first commercial wireless network in May 2018 in the UAE, becoming the first telecom operator in Mena to achieve this technological breakthrough.

“We are pleased to have partnered with Ericsson to provide a platform for UAE residents to experience 5G and IoT innovation firsthand and to meet experts discussing the latest trends and technology shaping the ICT industry today and in the future. This is in line with our strategy to ‘Drive the Digital Future to empower societies’.”

Rafiah Ibrahim, head of Market Area Middle East & Africa at Ericsson, said: “In line with our continuous effort to support UAE’s digital agenda, we are collaborating with our long-standing partner Etisalat making 5G a reality in UAE and the region.  Today, we are working together to identify innovative 5G use cases and practices that will elevate Etisalat subscribers experience while also exploring industry opportunities enabled by 5G.”

Etisalat is expanding 5G network sites to enable 5G coverage across the UAE. With 5G technology, consumers will witness unprecedented network speed and low latency enabling users to enjoy uninterrupted 4K videos, AR/VR services, cloud gaming and much more.

Also featuring a 5G football VR, MediaKind Live Sports Delivery in 360VR; a city model, and an Industry 4.0 demo, ‘Barcelona Unboxed’ took place on June 19 and 20 at Etisalat’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi. – TradeArabia News Service