SK Telecom has launched three augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) services using 5G to improve esports viewing.
Watched by an estimated global audience of 380 million in 2018, esports are video game contests where professional gamers battle against other competitors. According to a report by Newoo, the global audience for esports is expected to reach an estimated $1.4 billion in revenues by 2020.
SK Telecom has introduced Jump AR, LCK VR Live Broadcasting and VR Replay. Jump AR is an AR service that gives esports viewers a look inside an esports stadium called LoL Park. Using a smartphone, viewers get a 360° view of the stadium’s interior. Viewers can also leave messages, watch videos and read messages from other viewers. SK Telecom said it includes real-time tracking technology for users to navigate the virtual stadium and take fan selfies through 3D facial recognition and realistic AR rendering technologies.
LCK VR Live Broadcasting gives players a 360° view through virtual cameras installed in LoL Park. VR Replay is an esports video that highlights the perspective of characters in the game via VR headsets.
SK Telecom has been experimenting with 5G as more than just a way to get faster data rates on smartphones. The company recently demonstrated how over-the-air, next-generation, television standard ATSC 3.0 could be used with 5G for in-vehicle infotainment.
The Korean telecom is also working with the Korean government to test how HD maps could be used to update and give real-time information to autonomous vehicles utilizing 5G technology.
