HKCEC implements 5G, introduces first 5G security robot

The 5G network and security robot herald a new era of a digitally-elevated venue experience and enhancement of operational efficiency.

The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) has announced the completion of the installation of 5G infrastructure on 9 September.

The HKCEC now boosts 100% 5G coverage spanning event spaces, restaurants, and backstage areas. It also can now accommodate a large number of facility users to access data-intensive applications and content. The move will empower exhibitors to integrate physical and online marketing and sales efforts such as more stable and better real-time live streaming of events, application of new technologies to enhance engagement with visitors, and the streaming of high-definition videos to visitors’ mobile devices.

A 5G-powered security robot named Captain C also made its debut at the event, a product of both 5G and artificial intelligence technologies. It is equipped with a 360-degree 4K high-definition surveillance camera, infrared detection camera, and a smoke and fire detecting system. Captain C can play very versatile roles, such as implementing crowd management or pandemic prevention measures via broadcast of social distancing reminders.

HKCEC Management Limited (HML) Managing Director Monica Lee-Müller said, “As an industry leader, HML is committed to using smart technology to offer better service to our customers and we are delighted to be one of the first organisations in Hong Kong to provide high-speed indoor 5G connectivity. Our new 5G smart robot also helps us flexibly allocate resources and provide event organisers and visitors with safer, more reliable services.”

HML kicked off the $128m (HK$1b) HKCEC Five-year Advancement Project in 2019 to upgrade and refurbish the HKCEC’s facilities and infrastructure over several stages.