MidwestStudent Housing CA Ventures, Google team up on hybrid data solution September 15, 2020 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via email Rise at Riverfront Crossings in Iowa City, IA. Chicago-based CA Ventures (CA) has forged a strategic partnership with Google’s Area 120 on a new cellular and Wi-Fi hybrid network solution, Orion Wi-Fi. The partnership offers Google’s telecommunications technology at CA’s residential and commercial real estate offerings to improve cellular connectivity and create a secure, integrated, enhanced tenant and guest experience. “We are constantly evaluating and exploring new technologies and innovation in real estate,” said Mark Zikra, vice president of innovation for CA. “When I first heard about Orion Wi-Fi, I knew immediately that it was something CA wanted to be a part of. The potential for Orion to lay on top of our already robust building networks and provide a seamless, integrated cellular solution will drive considerable value for our residents, staff and investments.” Orion Wi-Fi’s technology utilizes CA’s existing infrastructure to offload data usage from participating carrier networks, improving cellular coverage and data speeds to participants. When cellular devices from participating carriers come into CA properties, they will automatically and securely connect to the Wi-Fi network to provide a seamless and reliable internet experience. “CA is a great partner for Orion Wi-Fi not only because they have such high-quality networks, but also because they’re committed to creating a great experience with innovative technology,” said Raj Gajwani, director at Google’s Area 120. CA has 13 residential and student living communities participating in the partnership, properties include: HERE Minneapolis, HERE State College, Uncommon Dinkytown, Uncommon Wilmington, Identity Miami, Latitude at River Landing, Rise on Chauncey, The Link University City, Identity Moscow, Evolve on Main, Identity Boise, Rise at Riverfront Crossings and HERE Kansas. “We are delighted to be able to partner with Google on this initiative to continue driving new and innovate ways to improve our residents and guests experience throughout our portfolio,” Zikra said.