By Peter Alagos/Business Reporter

The range of technologies in “smart sports” such as Nokia’s Edge Video Orchestration is expected to provide “enhanced viewing experience” to mobile device users, particularly for tech-savvy football enthusiasts anticipating the staging of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The technology is currently on display at Ooredoo’s imaginarium for the ITU Telecom World 2014, which runs until tomorrow at Qatar National Convention Centre.

Speaking to Gulf Times at the imaginarium’s Smart Stadium pod, Nokia Customer Solutions manager Ahmed Youssef said liquid applications solution provides users with a multiple, real-time view of any event.

In sports, Youssef said, spectators - whether on site or outside the venue - could get a 360º perspective of the game using Nokia’s Edge Video Orchestration – technology that many sports enthusiasts would benefit from during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The Smart Stadium also features interactive video presentations that show the journey to major sporting events set to be hosted in Qatar, particularly the World Cup.

The demo is highlighted by a bigger, faster Wi-Fi network that would enable people to book tickets, order food and watch high-definition action on their mobile devices. High-tech apps that deliver real-time statistics and replays with perfect clarity are also on display.

Visitors can also buy a smartcard that replaces cash, which could be used in the “Fan Zones”.

Aside from the Smart Stadium, the imaginarium also features cutting-edge technology in other pods such as the Smart Home where visitors can view next-generation, immersive 4G television experiences, powered by Ooredoo Fibre. The next-generation set-top box offers live gaming, video on demand, TV-based shopping and multi-screen TV.

Also, the Smart Home “central control” provides residents with full control of CCTV (closed circuit television), heating, lighting and smart locks, either via a central interface or through control “surfaces” around the house.

A live display of the so-called Internet of things, which includes RfiD (Radio Frequency Identification) tags in everyday objects that attempt to make life “smoother, safer and more energy-efficient”, is also on offer.

The Smart Futures section, meanwhile, showcases a range of “future-facing technologies” such as the “Connected Car”.

Using 4G technology, the connected car provides “in-car” information on traffic, location services and even parking spaces. It also streams live entertainment for passengers and intelligently reports wear and tear on the car.

Another pod featuring Smart Health displays a wide range of mobile technology available for healthcare providers and hospitals. It includes smart analytics that can help run hospitals, including tracking patients and scheduling appointments, and mobile technology to monitor the health of patients.

Other pods in the imaginarium include Smart City, Smart Office and Smart Transport solutions that showcase the future of network technology for Qatar.