Intel is working to develop 5G-based virtual reality (VR), 3D and 360-degree content development platforms for the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022 and the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

The chip maker signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Sky Limit Entertainment (SoReal).

“As a worldwide TOP Olympic Partner, Intel is committed to help bring technologies including AI, 5G platforms and VR into the Olympic Games to provide innovative experiences for athletes, participants, spectators and stadium operators, as well as demonstrating how technology promotes successful business transformation. This MOU will help to develop 5G-based VR/AR immersive experiences for Olympics fans," said Rick Echevarria, Intel vice president in the Sales and Marketing Group and general manager of Intel’s Olympics Program.

Using Intel Core and Intel Xeon processors and other Intel products, the collaboration between Intel and SoReal will develop 5G-technology-enhanced virtual reality and augmented reality (AR) content solutions.

Research will be conducted on dynamic allocation architecture of rendering servers, data compression and decoding on different networks; VR gaming mixed frame synchronization; and other related technologies. Significant optimization is required in management and clients to bring interactive VR experiences into reality in the 5G era.

As part of the MOU, the companies will design and produce 360-dgree VR/AR content related to competition and sports events; develop supporting facilities including software, hardware and system integration: Development of a VR chair-, VR cube-, VR magic box-related hardware and software solutions to provide audiences with advanced VR gaming, VR sports and VR broadcasting experiences.

The companies will also develop a VR sports simulator-related product to provide VR/AR experiences and training assistance to Olympic athletes.

A VR/AR theme park (SoReal VR&AR International E-Sports Centre) will be also developed at Shougang campus and a VR/AR sport industry center will be created, which is close to the Olympic Big Air venue and Olympic winter sports training centers.