The Theatre of Dreams is no longer open to phablets, tablets and laptops after Manchester United banned all large electronic devices from its stadium citing "security intelligence". The Premier League club said that tech such as iPads and iPad Minis was no longer allowed inside the stadium to protect supporters.
The ban on oversized electronics extends to anything bigger than 150mm by 100mm. That means smartphones and cameras with reasonably sized lenses will still be allowed but tablets and laptops will not. In a statement Man United said that the ban on larger electronic devices was "in line with UK airports".
In a post on its website the club explained that "the scale of Old Trafford and profile of Manchester United" meant that the risks faced by the stadium were "unique". The clubs concern appears to be that fake electronic devices would be used to conceal bombs. Asked why fans couldn't demonstrate their devices were genuine by turning them on Man United said that it would be "impractical".
No other Premier League club currently prohibits tablets and laptops. Bitter rivals Chelsea are unlikely to do so, having agreed a lucrative multi-million pound sponsorship deal with tech giant Samsung.
In July all UK airports put a ban on uncharged electronic devices carried in hand luggage . All passengers are now required to prove that their devices can be switched on before passing security. The move came after advice from US authorities.
