Transcelestial deployed its proprietary wireless lasers at this year’s music festival to provide 5G connectivity to T-Mobile users at much faster speeds than that of the American network operator’s closest competitors
In a groundbreaking achievement that could enhance connectivity at large-scale events, Singapore deep-tech startup Transcelestial has successfully deployed its proprietary wireless laser technology to provide 5G for attendees at this year’s Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals.
The festivals take place in the remote, wind-swept environment of the Coachella Valley in Riverside County, California, where frequent dust storms and gusts can hit at speeds of up to 90 km/h, causing significant connectivity issues for the organisers and festival-goers.
To tackle this, Transcelestial was brought in to power Coachella’s Sahara Stage with a high-speed 5G network using its Centauri device. The shoebox-sized unit creates a secure, invisible laser communications network without using physical fibre cables.
Deployed in partnership with T-Mobile, the device could deliver connectivity more than seven and a half times faster than the American wireless network operator’s closest competitors.
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Several Centauri devices were set up from the cell site on wheels to connect with T-Mobile’s area tower. Their compact size made them quick to deploy and less impacted by wind loading and other weather issues, minimising the logistical and environmental challenges often associated with setting up traditional connectivity infrastructure at such events.
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“How many times have you been at a festival, trying to send a photo or video to loved ones, or even livestream, and it just won’t go through? At Coachella, we flipped the script by helping to deliver connectivity using our lasers to T-Mobile’s base stations,” says Transcelestial’s co-founder and CEO Rohit Jha, who was recognised in 2023 as a Gen.T Leader of Tomorrow.
“Imagine the potential at similar events such as Burning Man, the Super Bowl, SXSW, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, Comic-Con and more. We’re enhancing safety and fun by ensuring you’re always connected, whether you’re sharing moments live or just checking in with friends. In partnership with T-Mobile, we’re redefining how we connect at events—making every experience seamless and unforgettable.”
The successful deployment at Coachella marked a significant milestone for the Singapore company, as it expands its foothold in North America and engages in discussions with industry leaders to drive the widespread adoption of laser technology in fixed wireless access (FWA), broadband and 5G rollouts nationwide.