As the official communication and cloud service partner of the 9th Asian Winter Games, China United Network Communications Group Co., Ltd. (China Unicom) demonstrated unwavering commitment in its preparations for the prestigious event.
Network upgrading: showcasing “Unicom speed”
Heilongjiang Unicom is responsible for the communication infrastructure and service support at the venues.
The company implemented five major upgrade initiatives — network, digital intelligence, technology, security and service — in the 300 days before the opening of the Winter Games. It established four dedicated networks: the competition network, 4G/5G backup network, event internet and media data transmission network.
To ensure high-speed, stable and reliable communications throughout the event, Heilongjiang Unicom implemented extensive network optimizations across key venues, ski resorts and transportation hubs. For the men’s ice hockey competitions, the company deployed an integrated solution combining one cloud platform with four communication networks, achieving comprehensive 5G-A coverage in the ice hockey arena.
At the Ice Events Training Center, network enhancements were customized to meet the specific requirements of each venue. During test events, 5G-A-enabled smartphones recorded download speeds exceeding 1,600 Mbps, even with a full house of spectators.
To maintain network quality, Heilongjiang Unicom conducted multiple training sessions and rigorous testing, ensuring flawless network performance for the Games.
Digital intelligence upgrading: building a dedicated event cloud
Beyond its robust communication network, China Unicom is serving as a cloud service provider for the first time at a major sporting event, establishing a dedicated event cloud for the Winter Games.
This specialized cloud supports 19 systems across four main categories, including event management and results processing. It provides high-quality IT services for event organizers, participants and spectators, while also delivering cloud-network communication services for competition venues, command centers and over 30 official hotels.
In January, nearly 100 professionals from China Unicom Digital Technology Co., Ltd., specializing in cloud computing, cybersecurity and the Internet of Things, were deployed to Harbin to ensure the smooth operation of the event cloud.
Technological innovation: empowering the Games with smart solutions
Throughout preparation for the Games, China Unicom pursued a strategy of integrated innovation, introducing state-of-the-art technologies to enhance every aspect of the event.
China Unicom developed the Jimu UAV supervision platform, a customized solution utilizing cutting-edge low-altitude intelligent networking technology for comprehensive UAV management. The platform offers one-stop services such as post-flight playback and evidence collection, while employing sophisticated algorithms to detect and neutralize unauthorized drone activity, providing robust aerial security for the event.
In terms of network management, China Unicom introduced an IPv6 monitoring system designed specifically for the Games. This system is designed to support every stage of the event, addressing diverse needs and ensuring visible, reliable network performance.
In addition, China Unicom implemented large-scale applications of 5G-A high-precision positioning technology for the first time in a major sporting event. This technology is designed to improve the operational efficiency of staff and smooth operation of the event.
China Unicom has utilized 5G-RedCap — a lightweight 5G technology known for its low cost and low power consumption — to enhance the event’s sustainability. 5G-RedCap cameras have been installed at various competition venues in an effort to provide round-the-clock monitoring of communication equipment.
In addition to the cameras, China Unicom has introduced a 5G-powered communication resource storage management platform, using 5G-A passive IoT technology. This platform enables smart management and real-time tracking of essential event materials.
Pursuing excellence: ensuring a memorable Asian Winter Games
With the Games underway, China Unicom remains focused on delivering refined service management and uninterrupted communications.
The 10010 platform features a dedicated Asian Winter Games information hotline, with English-speaking representatives and video customer service available. In addition, four international service centers were established near airports, conference venues, sports arenas and major tourist sites in Harbin. These centers are staffed with multilingual personnel and equipped with translation devices and signage to provide high-quality communication services for international visitors.
China Unicom has also launched unique packages to meet the diverse needs of spectators, offering high-value-added services. The company introduced a suite of smart applications, including intelligent venue management and smart tourism services, providing participants and spectators with a fully immersive high-tech experience aimed at driving the digital transformation of the Games.
(Executive editor: Wang Ruoting)
