The Mobile Communications Group (MCG) of the iTEAM has successfully completed the trials of the BINETHOL project (Bidirectional Education System Based on Holographic Cabins Through 5G Networks), a pioneering initiative that combines holographic cabins and private 5G networks to revolutionize distance education through immersive communication experiences.
In March 2025, the Immersive Communications Laboratory at UPV conducted a series of experiments using two full-scale holographic cabins, equipped with professional capture systems (cameras, microphones, and white chroma backgrounds) and visualization stations with integrated PCs, webcams, and audio systems. The trials were carried out over the high-capacity, low-latency private 5G network of the iTEAM’s Immersive Communications Laboratory, enabling the validation of both unidirectional and bidirectional transmission scenarios.
In the unidirectional mode, the teacher’s holographic image was projected into a remote cabin, where students could attend the lesson in 3D, while interaction was completed via conventional video and audio. In the bidirectional setup, both parties appeared as real-time 3D projections, allowing for much richer and more natural interaction. To ensure the quality of the experience, the cabins were placed in separate rooms to avoid interference and guarantee optimal testing conditions.
Beyond the technical aspects, educational trials were conducted with volunteers who interacted with people and virtual objects inside the cabins. Participants compared this experience to traditional video calls through questionnaires, highlighting a stronger sense of presence, realism, and closeness.
BiNetHol (Bidirectional Education System based on Holographic Cabins Through 5G Networks) is a Platform Extension project of the Spanish test facility within IMAGINE-B5G (Grant Agreement No.: 101096452), co-funded by the European Union. It represents a significant step forward toward new, more immersive, realistic, and effective forms of teaching. Thanks to the combined use of holography, 5G, and advanced capture technologies, the door is open to future applications in education, medical training, or remote collaboration. One of the holographic cabins will remain installed at UPV for future research and demonstrations.