Notre Dame Stadium Embraces Mobile Ticketing and Enhanced Fan Experience
Notre Dame Stadium has made significant strides in enhancing the fan experience through the adoption of mobile ticketing and grab-and-go concession stands. The introduction of alcohol sales has also paved the way for new services such as mobile carts. Premium areas now offer fans the ability to stream various games during events, and mobile ordering for concessions with pickup alerts has been successfully tested.
Looking to further improve the in-person experience, the university is exploring innovative ways to provide exclusive camera angles and real-time stats, accessible only through Wi-Fi at the stadium. This initiative aims to offer fans a unique experience that cannot be replicated at home. The goal is to entice fans to attend games in person rather than opting for the convenience of watching from home.
Behind the scenes, Notre Dame Stadium has transformed into a testing ground for advanced technology in collaboration with Federated Wireless and Notre Dame’s Wireless Institute. Federated Wireless has played a crucial role in helping the university navigate the challenges of utilizing the new 6 GHz Wi-Fi band outdoors. By implementing Federated Wireless’ Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) system, the stadium’s Wi-Fi network has been strengthened, expanded its coverage, and can now accommodate more users simultaneously.
Additionally, the Wireless Institute is currently piloting a private 5G network to assess how connectivity can be enhanced for students and devices across the campus. While private 5G implementation is not imminent, the university is taking steps to ensure that back-of-house communications remain uninterrupted to support critical services like campus public safety.
Despite ongoing improvements to the stadium’s cellular network, Notre Dame encourages visitors to utilize Wi-Fi due to the outdated infrastructure of the cellular network. Challenges in upgrading the cellular network stem from the reluctance of cellular carriers to install equipment within the stadium bowl, as it may impact the venue’s aesthetics. Efforts are underway to address these challenges and enhance cellular service for fans attending events at Notre Dame Stadium.
