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This week, the New Jersey Devils, Prudential Center and Verizon announced a multiyear extension of their partnership – which includes new technologies to enhance and ease the fan experience while improving arena operations.

Basking Ridge-based Verizon has served as the Official 5G Network of the National Hockey League and previously successfully piloted a Verizon Private 5G Wireless Network in Prudential Center – which enabled the use of solutions such as wireless Officials’ iPads for replay review, video coaching and coach/video coach communications.

This multi-year partnership extension features new technology for wireless connectivity and retail convenience – and will include a rollout of technological innovations throughout the year.

Some notable aspects of the partnership include:

• Verizon will deploy 5G Ultra Wideband, Verizon Private 5G Network and Wi-Fi 6/6E to give Prudential Center the ability to host large-scale events, concerts and games with a more efficient, reliable and faster network;
• The improved connectivity, powered by Verizon, will change the way fans experience games and live events in the arena and through the Devils and Prudential Center mobile app;
• Combining 5G with computer vision technology from AiFi, the Prudential Center is unveiling new cashierless checkout stores for a streamlined food and beverage experience at The Rock; building on the success of the Pepsi Grab N Go cashierless checkout stores located throughout the arena.

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Verizon, a New Jersey-based company, and lay the foundation for the way fans view and experience Devils home games and other events at Prudential Center,” said Sasha Puric, chief technology officer, Harris Blitzer Sports Entertainment, which operates Prudential Center. “Providing reliable and efficient wireless connectivity is at the forefront of our operational needs and, with Verizon, we can now provide that enhancement to our fans, employees, partners, and events.”

In the announcement, Jonathan Nikols, senior vice president, Global Enterprise Americas, Verizon Business, said the Devils and Prudential Center have been true partners.

“Working alongside Verizon the NHL to test, ideate and iterate in order to bring new and innovative solutions to the sport,” said Nikols. “The learnings we’ve all come away with will help to transform the way hockey is both experienced and played, and I look forward to seeing all that’s made possible through the power of 5G and joint collaboration.”

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The Devils and RWJBarnabas Health also extended their partnership earlier this year. Click here to see what that agreement entails.