Blog: Why cellular signal fails in stadiums when you need it most
We’ve all experienced the frustration of being in the middle of a packed stadium, trying to make a quick call, send a photo on Whatsapp to friends or family or post a video on Instagram, only to be met with ‘no service’ messages or spinning wheels as our phones struggle to connect. Despite our expectation of consistent and high-quality cellular connectivity experience, many stadiums and arenas still fall short when it comes to cellular service. When tens of thousands of people gather in one place and use their devices simultaneously, cellular networks often can’t keep up with the increased demand for service without dedicated cellular infrastructure. So why does this happen and more importantly, what can be done about it?
Why cellular coverage drops in stadiums
High user volume leads to network congestion
Stadiums often host crowds of 25,000 to 80,000 people at a time. When such a high volume of users simultaneously try to send messages, stream videos and access apps, the cellular network quickly becomes overwhelmed. This is known as network congestion, when the demand for data exceeds the network’s capacity. If stadiums don’t have a dedicated cellular network, then this leads to slow speeds, dropped calls and frustratingly poor connectivity.
Building materials that block signal
Many stadiums are built using a combination of materials including concrete, steel and glass which is excellent for structural strength, however, they also present challenges for cellular signal. As a result, even if there’s robust cellular connectivity outside the stadium, those service often struggle to reach key areas inside the stadium.
Increased interference from devices
When cell phones struggle to find a strong and consistent service, they increase their transmission power and continuously search for a better connection. This not only causes your battery to drain more quickly but also places additional strain on the existing external cellular networks. When thousands of devices are doing this simultaneously, it creates significant congestion across the available network capacity, ultimately degrading performance for all users.
How to keep fans seamlessly connected in your stadium
To overcome the limitations of relying solely on external cellular networks, stadiums must invest in dedicated, purpose-built indoor cellular infrastructure. These solutions are able to deliver reliable, dedicated high-quality cellular connectivity across every part of the venue even during peak usage times.
Many leading venues have addressed this challenge by deploying a Distributed Antenna System (DAS). A DAS is a network of antennas strategically installed throughout the stadium to deliver consistent cellular connectivity. It works by transmitting cellular signals from wireless carriers and then evenly distributing the connectivity throughout stadium, ensuring every fan and staff member stays connected as they expect.
The true impact of reliable connectivity within a stadium
In today’s always-on world cellular connectivity it’s a baseline expectation of visitors. Investing in high-performance connectivity delivers benefits far beyond bars of signal:
Enhanced fan experience: Fans expect reliable, uninterrupted cellular service to share moments on social media, access cellular tickets, stream live content, order food and merchandise and interact with venue apps.
Unlocking new revenue streams: Strong cellular connectivity opens up new revenue streams for venues. With reliable in-venue cellular service, fans can easily place food and drink orders from their seats and make impulse purchases of merchandise through venue apps or QR code links. This not only reduces queue times and improves the fan experience but increases average spend per head.
Increased operational efficiency: Behind the scenes, connectivity plays a critical role in how venues run smoothly and safely. Staff and stewards need real-time communication to coordinate operations, especially during high-footfall moments like half-time.
Positive brand reputation: Cellular connectivity is increasingly seen as a reflection of a venue’s modernity, professionalism and attention to guest experience. Investing in a dedicated network helps protect and enhance the venue’s brand reputation. It can influence whether fans choose to return, recommend the venue or engage with sponsors.
In summary
The cellular experience is an integral part of the event experience. Investing in the right cellular connectivity infrastructure isn’t just about signal strength it’s about delivering a reliable, engaging and safe environment for everyone in the stadium. Fans expect it, staff need it and venues that deliver it stand out.
To find out more about our cellular connectivity solutions, click here.
