In September 2017, Cisco, alongside the GSMA, WBA, Boingo Wireless, Accuris Networks, and BSG Wireless working together with key operators brought a record-setting Next Generation Hotstpot (NGH) deployment to the inaugural MWC Americas event. More than 60% of attendees’ Wi-Fi connections were automatically authenticated through NGH – in short, the deployment was very successful!
MWC 18 will see another NGH deployment – and, in fact, this deployment is already in action! As of Wednesday evening, NGH is LIVE and performing fantastically across hotspots in key areas of the city of Barcelona; at the airport, train station and at the Fira Gran Via and Monjuic. For this deployment, we’ve been joined by iPass to help bring subscribers of operators that include AT&T, T-Mobile US, Mobily, Sprint, Softbank, Shaw, Telecom 26 and others fast, hassle-free Wi-Fi that they will have when they automatically authenticate to the NGH network. In addition, Thinksmarter and Vodafone will provide IoT solutions to help with operational activities, as well as providing some detailed anonymised analytics to demonstrate the flow of people from arrival in Barcelona throughout the event.
Expect to see these around Barcelona during your stay!
Here’s a glimpse at where you’re be able to enjoy NGH throughout Barcelona:
o Over 2200 access point across all locations
o Key coverage in the city
o Full coverage in Fira Gran Via and Montjuic (where MWC is taking place)
o Airport: GSMA registration zone after arrivals hall
And make no mistake about it: this Wi-Fi is FAST! Here’s a screenshot of the speeds that we were getting not long after the network was up and running.
This deployment was made possible through the cooperation and hard work of all the different companies involved, and we can’t wait for you to take part in the NGH experience!
Watch this space to find out more!
