Sports will be a big beneficiary of immersive user experiences
In a world where the number of active internet users is scaling new heights, viewer experiences are also evolving persistently, with digital revolutions leading toward a more immersive world. Digital media is a major catalyst for this growth. This ecosystem is setting new benchmarks for the industry.
Incidentally, contemporary audiences are also seeking augmented physical environments that transform live event experiences. They are opting for live streams of their favourite shows and events. The industry of sports is one of the leading beneficiaries of this technological innovation.
The true impact of technology
Over the years, technological breakthroughs in sports broadcast largely changed the perceptions of ardent fans. With the rise of digital media, people are spending more time on the internet, and their digital consumption increased tremendously. In a recent Ofcom report, the nature of digital content accessed through mobile devices was found to be exceedingly diversified.
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The enhanced tech capabilities of mobile devices enable the users to access video content, distribute audio content and take many other anticipated digital actions. This means the lines are blurred, augmenting the viewing experiences through a live streaming app.
Trends of the future
The sports arenas are gearing up to welcome a big change in broadcasting of mega sporting events like the Olympics. The trend of watching events on live streams kickstarted from the Rio Olympics in 2016 and is expected to go far ahead. Sports mobile apps are downloaded in huge numbers whenever an event of this magnitude takes place. Presently, many innovations are disrupting this space, offering more autonomy to viewers.
Some of these trends are discussed below:
Live-streaming of sports videos
This space is witnessing unprecedented growth with major alliances taking place and companies rallying hard to grab live streaming rights for mega events. Sports mobile applications are gaining momentum due to their interactive interface. These provide real-time highlights of the game and redefine game day experiences in unique ways. You can anticipate greater transformations in this arena.
Visualised game statistics
Viewers and sports aficionados prefer a better understanding of vital sports data. Hence, data visualisation boards became an integral part of stadiums. Analysis and brilliant presentation of game day data enhance engagement among viewers and fans. This data also helps teams in taking key decisions, which can turn the tables even during the last minutes of a game. Moreover, it fosters more awareness about a particular event with clear statistics being displayed across screens. This feature of data visualisation is expected to evolve in the near future.
Virtual reality
The digital content consumption of sporting fans will largely rely on this factor in the coming few years, as well. Virtual Reality or VR will offer immersive viewing experiences for fans. Athletes can improve their skills using this platform, too. Meanwhile, 360-degree video technology will transform the way we watch sports. Currently, these technologies work on recorded videos, but it will surely become feasible on a real-time basis in the future. Without leaving your home, you will enjoy your favourite game from the best seat in the arena. The prime seats will become easily available in this virtual space and they will enhance the revenues for organisers as well.
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In-stadium experiences
With connected stadiums being the reality, you can expect elevated in-stadium experiences. In this regard, wireless transmitters like iBeacons are leading the bandwagon. They allow users to access data within their immediate surroundings. Real-time information is available to spectators visiting the stadiums. Smart mobile apps are maximising user experiences by providing vital information like weather updates, game trivia, promotional offers, and so forth. These mobile apps can also be used for checking the availability of parking lots, seat upgrades, and exit points.
Conclusion
The technology used for mobile app development can create ripple effects in this industry. Its results will be witnessed over the next few years. Though, its drastic impact will be fuelled by advanced innovations. Even prior to the Tokyo Olympics, the stage has been set for mobile technology taking the lead. Hopefully, there will be augmented stadium experiences enthralling audiences even in a virtual environment, letting fans experience the vibrant atmosphere even without having to trek to the stadium. In a nutshell, sports watching will never be the same again.
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