PON XXI 2024 marked a significant milestone not only in Indonesia’s sports history but also in the country’s digital transformation. The event, held in Aceh and North Sumatra, not only brought together athletes from across the nation but also drove a significant surge in digital activities. A notable highlight is the 340 percent increase in Telkomsel’s 5G traffic, reflecting the role of high-speed connectivity in the modern era of sports.
The Role of 5G in PON XXI 2024
Boost in Streaming and Browsing
Telkomsel, Indonesia’s leading telecommunications provider, reported a dramatic rise in 5G usage during the event. Streaming services such as live sports broadcasts, social media updates, and video replays dominated the data consumption. Fans used their devices to stay updated with real-time results, stream live events, and watch interviews with athletes. This rise in 5G data traffic was also fueled by browsing activities, as spectators and participants searched for event information, athlete stats, and venue details.
Increased Demand for Digital Connectivity
As the demand for real-time digital interactions grows, Telkomsel’s 5G network has become a key enabler for various activities. From live streaming to instant messaging, people at the event relied heavily on fast, low-latency connections to share moments and stay connected. The seamless experience of 5G-powered browsing, gaming, and social media interactions played a crucial role in keeping the audience engaged, whether they were in the stadium or watching from home.
Why 5G Traffic Rose by 340 Percent
Large Scale of the Event
PON XXI is a massive event, with thousands of athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators coming together. This increase in participants directly correlates with the 340 percent spike in 5G data usage. With more people on-site, the need for robust and reliable internet connectivity was paramount.
Growth in Streaming Services
One of the primary drivers of 5G traffic was live streaming, as more fans preferred watching events on their mobile devices rather than attending in person. This trend is aligned with the global shift toward digital streaming platforms, where high-quality, uninterrupted content is crucial. Telkomsel’s 5G network ensured that users could enjoy buffer-free video streaming throughout the event.
Rise of Social Media and Digital Engagement
Another significant contributor to the rise in 5G traffic was the increased use of social media platforms. Athletes, fans, and influencers used platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to share their experiences in real-time. The speed and efficiency of 5G technology allowed for instant uploading of high-resolution photos, videos, and live updates, which spurred more digital activity around the event.
Telkomsel’s Preparedness for PON XXI
Expanding 5G Coverage
To support the massive influx of users and digital activities, Telkomsel expanded its 5G network coverage in the event areas. By increasing the number of 5G base stations, the company ensured that both spectators and participants had access to high-speed internet, enabling smooth digital interactions. Telkomsel’s ability to handle this surge in traffic demonstrated its infrastructure readiness and commitment to supporting large-scale events.
Enhancing User Experience
In addition to improving coverage, Telkomsel optimized its network performance to handle the increased demand for 5G services. This included enhancing the network’s speed, reducing latency, and improving overall reliability. These improvements allowed users to experience a flawless digital experience, regardless of the number of active users during peak times.
The Future of 5G in Indonesia
5G as a Game-Changer for Sports Events
The success of 5G during PON XXI 2024 is a testament to the technology’s potential in transforming sports events. As 5G continues to roll out across Indonesia, it is expected to play an even bigger role in future events, not just for streaming and browsing, but also for virtual reality experiences, augmented reality applications, and smart stadium technologies. With faster speeds and higher bandwidth, 5G is set to revolutionize how people interact with digital content at major events.
Growth Opportunities for Telkomsel
For Telkomsel, the PON XXI experience highlights a growing opportunity to expand 5G services nationwide. The company’s investment in 5G infrastructure and network optimization positions it to cater to a rapidly increasing demand for high-speed digital experiences. This event also serves as a testing ground for future events, allowing Telkomsel to refine its services and improve user satisfaction.
Pekan Olahraga Nasional (PON) XXI 2024, Indonesia’s biggest national sports event, has had a major impact on the country’s digital landscape. With a 340 percent increase in 5G traffic, Telkomsel successfully met the demands of streaming, browsing, and other digital activities. The event underscored the importance of 5G technology in modern-day experiences and opened the door to further advancements in Indonesia’s telecommunications landscape. As Telkomsel continues to expand its 5G network, the future looks promising for both sports events and the growing digital needs of the population.
