A groundbreaking 5G Immersive Lab has opened in Newcastle, ushering in a new era of technological innovation in the region.
- Science Minister Chris Bryant inaugurated the Digital Catapult facility at Eldon Square, aiming to boost technological advancements.
- The lab offers access to 5G networks and technological expertise, encouraging collaboration between small and larger businesses.
- Focus areas include retail, agriculture, and manufacturing, where traditional industries can leverage cutting-edge technologies.
- Significant investments have been made to support the lab, including £700,000 from the North of Tyne Combined Authority.
The opening of the 5G Immersive Lab in Newcastle represents a significant milestone in Tyneside’s technological landscape. Inaugurated by Science Minister Chris Bryant, this state-of-the-art facility is strategically located at Eldon Square. The lab is part of a broader initiative, aiming to harness the power of 5G connectivity to drive innovation and economic growth in the region. The site is situated in the former Giraffe restaurant in the Greys Quarter, now repurposed to accommodate cutting-edge technologies.
At the core of this initiative is the aim to foster a collaborative environment where companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), can work alongside larger counterparts to develop new concepts. The lab is equipped with a Vodafone 5G Standalone network and is backed by the expertise of Digital Catapult, an innovation agency dedicated to promoting digital advancements. Businesses in the region can access a variety of resources, including technology workshops, business challenges, and live demonstrations.
The lab’s focus extends to traditional sectors such as retail, agriculture, and manufacturing. These industries are encouraged to utilize the facility to explore how immersive technologies can revolutionize their operations. During the launch event, attendees witnessed innovative demonstrations, including augmented reality showcases by Aircards and virtual hazard-perception training developed by Newcastle-based Luminous XR. Such initiatives highlight the potential of immersive technologies to transform conventional business practices.
In his speech, Sir Chris Bryant expressed his admiration for the local innovation ecosystem, stating, “It’s not easy to blow my socks off, but that’s what this did. It is fantastic to see first-hand digital innovation happening in the heart of Newcastle, which is a testament to the region’s ambition to help home-grown businesses to flourish.” His remarks underscore the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth across the UK by leveraging regional talent.
Jessica Driscoll, Director of Immersive Technology at Digital Catapult, emphasized the transformative potential of immersive technology in reshaping industries nationwide. According to Driscoll, the 5G Immersive Lab offers an unparalleled opportunity for businesses to experiment and collaborate, accelerating the adoption of new technologies. This effort is supported by substantial funding, including £700,000 from the North of Tyne Combined Authority, as part of the broader £3.5 million Innovation Accelerator program aimed at overcoming connectivity barriers.
The 5G Immersive Lab in Newcastle is set to be a pivotal hub for technological innovation and economic growth.
