Ericsson has teamed up with EE to showcase the capabilities of 5G standalone (SA) through an augmented reality (AR) experience.
Called The Green Planet, the AR installation is inspired by the BBC series of the same name and aims to bring immersive nature storytelling to visitors in a new, interactive format.
Katherine Ainley, CEO of Ericsson UK & Ireland, commented on the collaboration:
“I am thrilled to combine Ericsson’s technology leadership with EE’s drive for innovation to deliver The Green Planet AR Experience. It shows how 5G, and especially 5G standalone, can be used to create new immersive experiences for consumers that can help to transform our society and build a better understanding of our planet. It is an excellent demonstration of how technology can be used as a platform for a more connected and sustainable future.”
Visitors use a Galaxy S21 smartphone to embark on an immersive journey across six digitally rendered environments: rainforests, freshwater ecosystems, saltwater habitats, seasonal change, desert landscapes, and a final section focused on how people can drive positive environmental action.
The presentation relies on a private 5G network combined with edge computing. This architecture provides the ultra-low latency, high reliability, and increased bandwidth required to render AR content in real time, ensuring smooth, responsive visuals and interactions for each guest.
Greg McCall, Managing Director of Networks at BT Group, EE’s parent company, highlighted the significance of the project:
“This pioneering project demonstrates the amazing new experiences the latest innovation in network technology can create. Using the capability of edge computing and a standalone 5G network developed in partnership with Ericsson, we’re able to inspire greater responsibility towards our planet at a time it’s never been more important. The Green Planet AR Experience powered by EE 5G is an important stage of our standalone and edge compute journeys, as EE continues to deliver industry-leading innovation to power the best experiences.”
The Green Planet AR Experience opens to the public at 55 Regent Street from 11 February 2022. Free tickets are available from the official event site.
Interested in learning more about 5G and the opportunities it creates for businesses and consumers? Consider attending 5G industry events to hear from experts and see live demonstrations. Event series such as 5G Expo bring together leaders across the ecosystem to discuss real-world use cases, network evolution, and emerging applications.
You can also explore other enterprise technology events and webinars organized by TechForge to stay informed about upcoming shows and opportunities to experience new technologies firsthand.