UK Tech Minister opens 5G immersive lab

Sir Chris Bryant MP, Minister of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, today visited the new Digital Catapult 5G Immersive Lab in Newcastle, exploring the facility that will enable companies in the North East to scale faster.

The state-of-the-art innovation lab, based in Newcastle’s Eldon Square, will help SMEs to de-risk the adoption of 5G and immersive technologies, accelerating the practical application of deep tech across key industries.

The facility will encourage SMEs to work alongside large businesses, developing proofs of concept that can solve complex business challenges.

Digital Catapult is encouraging businesses in the North East from traditional industries including retail, agriculture and manufacturing, to engage with the lab, providing them with pioneering new technologies, enhanced 5G capabilities from Vodafone 5GSA, and access to expertise from Digital Catapult’s team.

During the visit, the Minister explored the work of leading regional companies that are developing transformative solutions across consumer and training experiences. A futuristic Augmented Reality (AR) showcase, presented by local tech company Aircards, allowed the Minister to interact with the latest in ‘smart mirror’ technologies. The Minister also experienced a virtual hazard-perception training exercise created by fellow North East innovator Luminous XR, which has presented to several participants on Digital Catapult’s programmes.

Commenting on the visit, Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “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. Above all, it was great to see completely commercial products being developed by companies working alongside the local authorities to build the businesses of the future.

“This government is on a mission to generate sustained economic growth in every corner of the UK, and the Digital Catapult innovators I have met are helping us do so by leveraging regional talent to boost growth in the North East and beyond.”

Jessica Driscoll, Director of Immersive Technology at Digital Catapult, said: “Immersive technology is reshaping industries across the UK with tools and processes that come from the creative industries being used in more industrial use cases, driving innovation and unlocking new economic opportunities. The 5G Immersive Lab will be a hub that will give businesses hands-on opportunities to experiment, collaborate, and accelerate the practical adoption of  technologies to drive growth.”

With a view to boosting digital skills, productivity and innovation across the North East region, Sir Chris Bryant’s visit follows the Labour Party Conference, where the Minister made clear the ambition to improve connectivity across the country.

Any business interested in using the 5G Immersive Lab can find out more here.