The project aimed to further assess how 5G technology could support remote and flexible live production workflows in challenging environments, outside of a sporting context. Using Sony’s HDC-3500 system cameras and the CBK-RPU7 paired with the PDT-FP1 portable data transmitters, with the NXL-ME80 media processor decoding the signals, the team tested real-time, high-quality video transmission over private 5G networks provided by Citymesh. Alongside video transmission, camera shading was conducted remotely over the 5G network, enabling operators to modify image settings in real time from afar. Tally signals were also transmitted over the 5G network, ensuring effective communication during production. Additionally, the return video feed from the production vehicle to the camera was facilitated through the 5G return function, allowing camera operators to oversee the program output and maintain situational awareness throughout the live event.
However, the trial presented unique challenges. 48h before the festival, Tomorrowland’s main stage suffered severe fire damage, forcing organizers to build an emergency LED stage. The intense RF radiation from the massive LED wall created significant interference, leading to frequency issues during the 5G testing.
Despite these hurdles, tests conducted at Tomorrowland’s Freedom Stage delivered excellent results. The Sony cameras successfully streamed live, low-latency video, proving the workflow’s potential in high-density, live event environments.
“Tomorrowland gave us the perfect setting to push 5G to its limits. While the emergency mainstage conditions were far from ideal, the Freedom Stage tests showed how 5G can enable more flexible, cost-effective production workflows for future events.” Stef Lambrechts, CTO, Gravity Belgium
Norbert Paquet, Head of Live Production at Sony Europe, added: “This trial demonstrates the progress we’re making with 5G for live production. Together with our partners, we’re shaping a future where wireless production delivers the quality and reliability broadcasters demand – even in the most challenging locations.”
“This test really demonstrated the potential of 5G for live production,” said Bernhard Schepens, Technical Producer at CK Productions. “Being able to deliver high-quality, low-latency video without the usual RF constraints opens up exciting possibilities for our workflows. That said, there’s still some development needed before we can rely on this technology in particularly demanding environments — but it’s a clear step in the right direction.”
“Providing the 5G network for this trial reinforced how robust and scalable our infrastructure is, even in environments with extreme connectivity demands. It’s exciting to see how 5G can unlock new production possibilities for the broadcast and events industry,” said Carlo Waelens, General Manager, Citymesh.
With further collaboration for 2026 under discussion, the Tomorrowland project marks another milestone in Sony’s mission to drive innovation in remote and distributed live production.
