Intel is collaborating with NTT DOCOMO, a National Partner of Tokyo 2020, to provide 5G technologies supporting network infrastructure, connectivity and collaboration on new experiences for the upcoming 2020 Olympic Games.

Expect 360-degree, 8K-video streams that may showcase real-time action across high-resolution devices at Olympic venues. Instead of watching surfing from the beach, for example, viewers will feel like they're riding the waves with the athletes. Fans may be able to take in the action using virtual reality powered by Intel True VR from their TV, headset or wireless device, provided through rights holding broadcasters, running on 5G networks capable of delivering massive amounts of data at multi-gigabit speeds.

Because of heightened intelligence in devices and at the edge, the 5G network will tackle data-intensive workloads, such as pervasive facial recognition, useful for everything from stadium access to threat reduction. Intel and other Olympic partners may offer the latest iteration of 5G communications for vehicles, which already have achieved data speeds of up to 1 Gbps for 4K-resolution video communications with a vehicle traveling at 30 km/h.

Athletes will also gain a new edge from 5G as they train and compete. Access to rich data and analytics will let them course-correct their training programs. Wearables, smart eHealth equipment and AR/VR simulations, all optimized over a 5G network, could leverage artificial intelligence to help competitors step up their game.

"We are optimistic about what the 5G connected world can do for us in the next few years, as we continue to define, prototype, test and deliver next-generation 5G technologies, products and solutions. The Olympics are the ultimate proving grounds for new technologies and the ways they impact our lives and communities," said Aicha Evans, senior vice president and chief strategy officer at Intel.