The impact of next-generation B5G/6G networks on immersive VR and mobile live sports viewing experiences

This study investigates how live sports streaming via virtual reality (VR) and mobile applications, enabled by advanced B5G/6 G networks, shapes the viewing experience and influences users’ willingness to adopt immersive streaming technologies. The pilot described in this paper took place during a professional basketball game in Madrid, Spain, and tested two immersive streaming scenarios: a VR-based experience and a mobile-based experience. Both scenarios relied on low-latency, high-bandwidth, high-throughput network capabilities and delivered 360° live video content. Participants evaluated the quality and impact of their immersive viewing experience. Data collected from both groups was analyzed using partial least squares multi-group analysis to assess perceived ease of use, usefulness, enjoyment, and flow experience. The results show that B5G/6G-enabled immersive live streaming significantly enhances all measured aspects of user perception across both scenarios. Although the strength of specific relationships varied slightly between the VR and mobile groups, no statistically significant differences emerged. Overall, the findings confirm that next-generation networks can effectively support high-quality immersive experiences and offer valuable guidance for the future deployment of real-time entertainment technologies across different platforms.