The Sports Industry is Ahead in Media Innovation

Consumers are spoiled for choices in terms of entertainment, whether it be on mobiles or on-demand aspects. During this time, it’s easy to forget how broadcasting has evolved to take advantage of new and emerging technology, especially when it comes to sports.

In the FIFA World Cup of 1966, viewers experienced the first color TV coverage. In 2010, Sky Sports was the first to offer its customers the luxury of viewing sports in full 3D. There’s reason to believe the next big innovation is just around the corner.

Tech advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), big data, over-the-top internet broadcasting, cloud computing and others have led the sports broadcasting industry to new heights. Currently, it’s paving the way for broadcasting models of the hyper-personalized kind.

In 2018, the FIFA World Cup, held in Russia featured matches in stunning 360-degree virtual reality content. For the very first time, viewers could get up close and watch their favorite players instead of being in the stands as spectators. In a sense, they can now celebrate right alongside their sports teams whenever they score a goal, a touchdown or a basket. Broadcasting companies can turn this innovation into special features by offering them as packages on social media.

In May, Oculus Venues went live as part of the whole VR experience. The World Rugby has gamified coverages by adding cartoon-style explosions and flame trails from its players shoes. In South Korea, the trend is the same, and large broadcasting companies like 먹튀 offer MLB, NBA and EPL content for free viewing.

Data-driven storytelling has become a main entree in sports media, and the trend only continues to grow as new tech innovations come along. Sensors on shoulder pads of NFL players, or the shoes of NBA players could collect data which can then be used for a more engaging and immersive storytelling experience like never before!