Samsung Electronics, in partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), has unveiled ambitious plans to redefine the viewer experience for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
As the Official Smartphone and Computing Equipment partner, Samsung aims to leverage its cutting-edge technology to deliver unprecedented access and immersion during key events such as the historic Opening Ceremony and sailing competitions.
At the heart of Samsung’s initiative lies the introduction of innovative footage captured exclusively by Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra smartphones.
This groundbreaking footage promises to provide viewers with an intimate and dynamic perspective of the Seine River-based Opening Ceremony, a departure from traditional stadium settings.
Stephanie Choi, EVP & Head of Marketing of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics, emphasized the company’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and enriching global engagement.
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"In an increasingly connected society, Samsung Galaxy mobile technology has helped deepen and transform users’ relationships with the world, wherever they are," Choi stated.
"Having been a Worldwide Partner for nearly three decades, we know first-hand how important it is to create and enable the same meaningful connections at the Olympic and Paralympic Games."
"We’re honored to be working closely with the IOC and OBS to provide high-quality footage that will be part of a series of firsts at Paris 2024 and bring fans at home and onsite even closer to the excitement," Choi added.
The Opening Ceremony, slated to feature 10,500 athletes parading down the Seine River, represents a significant departure from convention, embodying Paris 2024’s ambition to be the most inclusive Games in history.
Samsung’s deployment of over 200 Galaxy S24 Ultra smartphones aboard athlete's vessels will enable high-definition HDR footage, broadcast via a private 5G network powered by Orange, the official mobile network provider of Paris 2024.
This pioneering collaboration will see more than a dozen 5G antennas installed along the Seine, marking France’s first-ever 5G standalone network, ensuring seamless connectivity and a superior viewing experience for global audiences.
Furthermore, Samsung’s technological innovations will extend to the sailing competitions in Marseille, where Galaxy S24 Ultra devices will be integrated into each competition boat.
This integration posed significant challenges, necessitating months of rigorous research and development in collaboration with OBS and Orange to optimize video quality and connectivity across diverse maritime conditions.
Yiannis Exarchos, CEO of OBS, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s potential:.
"As host broadcaster of the Olympic Games, we’re incredibly excited about this partnership with Samsung which will allow a truly original perspective of Paris 2024, evolving the way in which fans will experience the Games," Exarchos stated.
"Samsung’s latest mobile innovation will allow millions of fans around the world to live and breathe the spirit, action, and emotion of the Opening Ceremony and sailing competitions alongside their favourite athletes in real-time."
Samsung’s involvement in the Olympic Games dates back decades, marked by continuous innovation.
From pioneering initiatives like the ‘Call Home’ program in 1998 to the Wireless Olympic Works (WOW) app at Athens 2004, Samsung has consistently elevated the digital experience for athletes and fans alike.
Over the years, Samsung has provided over 120,000 mobile products to athletes and staff, facilitating seamless communication and connectivity during the Games.
Looking ahead, Samsung remains committed to unveiling additional technological advancements aimed at further bridging the gap between athletes and fans, promising more groundbreaking developments in the lead-up to Paris 2024.