Arqiva partners with Sony to deliver 3D Wimbledon tennis to worldwide cinemas

Working closely with Sony and their theatrical distribution partners Supervision Media, Arqiva will provide the complete global transmission chain via Arqiva’s Digital Cinema Satellite Distribution System including SNG, teleport services and satellite capacity. Arqiva’s Digital Cinema platform on IS-905 will electronically distribute Sony’s feed to European cinemas with multiple international satellites used to reach 3D capable cinemas around the globe.

George Eyles, Head of Digital Cinema at Arqiva Broadcast & Media, said: “We have an excellent working relationship with both Sony and Supervision and are delighted that they have asked us to distribute this famous sporting event in such an innovative and high-tech medium. We will provide considerable input into the many technical aspects of the transmissions, drawing on our previous experience of delivering 3D cinema events including the 2010 Rugby Six Nations, 2010 Football World Cup and the world’s first live 3D Opera. Our digital cinema platform on IS-905 is well established for European HD and 3D cinema distribution while our integrated international network delivers the necessary global reach for a truly international sporting event.”

David McIntosh, Director of Digital Cinema for Sony Europe, added: “Arqiva’s international infrastructure offers us the flexibility and reliability we need to bring this prestigious sporting event to appreciative audiences all around the world. They have proven expertise of successfully delivering major sporting events in 3D so we will be drawing extensively on their experience and knowledge to ensure that cinemas around the world can show the matches in the highest possible quality and with maximum confidence. Sony's 3D broadcast experience, combined with Arqiva's track record in 3D distribution and Sony Digital Cinema 4K projection of ‘easy on the eye’ superior 3D, will ensure we bring the best 3D experience to fans in cinemas.”

Daniel Webber, Managing Director, SuperVision Media, commented: “Having worked with Arqiva on previous international events we are delighted that they will be providing the distribution elements of these important transmissions. With a huge anticipated take-up by cinemas spread right across the world, it’s vital to have a technology partner who understands and can professionally handle all the regional variations in equipment and standards – Arqiva is that company.”

About Arqiva

Arqiva, the communications infrastructure and media services company, operates at the heart of the broadcast, satellite and mobile communications markets. The company is at the forefront of network solutions and services in the digital world. Arqiva provides much of the infrastructure behind television, radio, satellite and wireless communications in the UK and has a significant presence in Ireland, mainland Europe and the USA. Customers include major broadcasters such as the BBC, ITV, BSkyB and the independent radio groups, major telco providers including the UK's five mobile network operators, and the emergency services.