The plan is to create a 5G immersive accelerator programme to develop solutions for retail and other enterprises.
Verizon has joined forces with Digital Catapult, the UK’s digital technology innovation centre backed by the government and private investment.
The programme will allow a small number of retail and brand partners to work directly with startups and technology innovators to explore how 5G-enabled solutions can solve their business challenges.
They will use the 5G and edge computing capabilities in Verizon’s London 5G Lab and production studio to develop prototypes over a seven-month period.
Verizon’s London 5G Lab and production studio launched in February 2020 and is the company’s first 5G-enabled facility outside the US.
It gives organisations a place to develop and test 5G applications and experiences, and explore the boundaries of 5G network technology.
Augmented shopping
Use cases demonstrated at the lab include augmented shopping, virtual events and experiences, smart retail shelving, intelligent asset management and reimagined workspaces using augmented reality (AR).
Verizon’s production studio, RYOT, can be used to produce 3D content including AR/VR, such as virtual events, using capabilities like volumetric capture, motion capture and AR broadcast from its facilities in London.
Christian Guirnalda, Verizon’s director of 5G Labs and Innovation Centers, commented, “Next gen digital channels, remote experiences, immersive content at home and on the go… these are new ways to better serve customers, all unlocked by 5G.
“By pairing startups and creators with brands and providing access to a 5G environment and tools, we will together support the local entrepreneurial community and continue to accelerate the 5G ecosystem.”
Geraldina Iraheta, Director of Business Development at Digital Catapult, said, “This accelerator is an incredible opportunity to bring 5G to life, proving its potential in real-world environments and revolutionising the retail experience for consumers. We’re excited to be working with Verizon to showcase the future of retail in this way.”