6 August, 2026 | London, England

Fan experience takes centre stage as Boldyn deploys future-ready network in Northern Ireland’s largest indoor multi-purpose venue

Boldyn Networks (Boldyn), a global leader in shared network infrastructure, has given event-goers a boost after deploying a new neutral-host DAS system at The O2 Belfast, providing fans a stronger, more reliable and higher-capacity mobile experience during live events. O2 customers are the first to enjoy the new network to share live moments, stream content, use digital tickets and make mobile payments instantly on their devices even when the arena is at full capacity.

Boldyn’s Distributed Antenna System (DAS) has the capacity to support all UK mobile network operators. The new system transforms the fan experience, strengthens security operations, supports staff on the ground and improves overall event co-ordination. 

Connectivity built for live entertainment

Welcoming more than 800,000 visitors each year, The O2 Belfast is the largest indoor arena in Northern Ireland and home to one of the most successful clubs in UK ice hockey history. The wider complex includes the award-winning W5 Science and Discovery Centre, the state-of-the-art W5 LIFE digital learning facility, and a host of food and leisure tenants, making it a world-class live entertainment destination which increasingly depends on strong connectivity all year round. 

Boldyn's network was designed specifically for The O2 Belfast, splitting the venue into zones so that coverage stays strong everywhere. The seating bowl and rink, where fans and demand are concentrated, get particular focus to keep performance consistent even at full capacity.

A future-ready network for an ambitious venue

The state-of-the-art neutral host solution combines high-performance active DAS technology with targeted additional coverage, creating a flexible system that can be finely tuned across the venue and easily scaled as needs grow. It supports every generation of mobile connectivity, from 2G through to 5G, across all UK networks.

It's also built with room to grow. Extra capacity is already in place to support future upgrades, so the network can keep evolving alongside changing visitor expectations, new operator requirements and the next generation of mobile technology.

Paul Osborne, Chief Commercial Officer at Boldyn Networks UK, said, “Live events are where the physical and digital worlds collide. Fans come for the roar of the crowd, but they also want to share it with everyone who isn't there. At The O2 Belfast, a premier multi-purpose venue, we've made those two sides work as one, so nothing gets between a fan and the moment. And we've built a digital foundation ready to adapt to whatever comes next, from rising visitor expectations to the technologies just over the horizon.”

Craig Barrington, Associate Director of Estates and Facilities at The Odyssey Trust, said, “As Northern Ireland’s premier live entertainment destination, we're always looking for innovative, digital-first ways to provide our guests with the best experience every time. Fast, reliable connectivity plays a key role in ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors enjoys unforgettable moments that last a lifetime. Boldyn’s state-of-the-art Distributed Antenna System will enhance how our guests experience The O2 Belfast and will be fundamental for us moving forward.”

Professor Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at O2, said: “The best connectivity is the kind customers do not have to think about. At a busy venue like The O2 Belfast, people want to get through the doors, meet friends, pay quickly and share the big moments without the network getting in the way. By bringing this enhanced mobile experience to O2 customers first, we’re helping make every visit smoother from the queue outside to the journey home.”