Athletes getting injured during their event is almost unavoidable. But modern-day technologies help reduce the frequency of injuries to a great extent. The information that smart gadgets gather is useful for amateur and professional athletes. The sports sector is now significantly impacted by the use of cutting-edge technologies, including machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI), fantasy sports, immersive reality, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Sports tech entrepreneurs even developed virtual fan technology to improve fans' viewing experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, transmission systems, virtual spectators, and live sporting events are all developing quickly. The safety of both players and fans continues to be a primary concern. To further reduce current and upcoming dangers, startups will increasingly concentrate on technologies like biometric authentication, face recognition, and ransomware avoidance. Let us look into the latest sports tech trends of 2023:
Performance Analytics
Coaches and athletes work to identify which game-related actions result in success to improve performance and decision-making. Measure a wide range of data with performance analytics tools to identify procedures that need to be enhanced while designing a sports strategy. Video and motion analytics offer data on things like the location of the ball, player engagement and movement, the timing of an action, and the result of that action. Wearables include data-tracking wristbands, sensors built into equipment, and smart clothing that provide exact data on athletes' actions, force, precision, and the likelihood of injuries. Thus, judgments made both before and during games can be supported by data.
Fan Engagement
Fans support the sport in many different ways, from attending sporting events in person to purchasing products. For continued loyalty, developing relationships with them is crucial. Clubs use a variety of technologies to increase fan involvement, including biometric identification, blockchain for transparent communication, and AI-powered smart chatbots. Holograms for live events captivate viewers by giving them the chance to communicate with their favorite sports stars from anywhere in the world through immersive technology. In eSports, there is a lot of fan interaction. Startups construct sports fan communities, share sports highlights, and let clubs hear from their supporters by creating sports fan platforms.
Smart Stadium
The ideal places to experience the atmosphere of a game and cheer for your favorite teams are said to be stadiums and other sporting event locations. Fans' preferences are shifting, too, and many now choose to watch the game on television. Sports tech startups are incorporating technologies that offer extra features for the in-venue match experience in order to enhance the spectator experience at stadiums. AI-based crowd sentiment analysis tracks players' emotions during the game to gauge how much fun spectators are having. Drones make cleaning and snack delivery to stadium seats simpler. Additionally, the Internet of Things (IoT) enhances smart stadium connectivity and bandwidth, enabling visitors to check in quickly, locate parking spaces, or use any apps immediately.
eSports
The development of next-generation solutions within the sector has led to eSports' continued growth in popularity. The popularity of free-to-play competitive games like PUBG Mobile demonstrates how decreasing smartphone penetration is lowering obstacles to the eSports business. Technologies like computer vision give precise information on the choices and strategies made by the players during the game. Due to the detailed analysis of game data that AI provides, eSports bookies are able to produce odds that are more accurate and boost their earnings, while bettors benefit from a better win percentage.
Immersive Training
The development of next-generation solutions within the sector has led to eSports' continued growth in popularity. The popularity of free-to-play competitive games like PUBG Mobile demonstrates how decreasing smartphone penetration is lowering obstacles to the eSports business. Technologies like computer vision give precise information on the choices and strategies made by the players during the game. Due to the detailed analysis of game data that AI provides, eSports bookies are able to produce odds that are more accurate and boost their earnings, while bettors benefit from a better win percentage.
Cybersecurity
The possibility of cyberattacks grows as the sports business expands. Attackers are interested in the data of sportsmen and fans, streaming services, and expensive sporting events. Sports organizers concentrate on the venue's and the visitors' cybersecurity in order to reduce risks and protect assets. They do this by implementing security technologies and setting up employee cybersecurity training. Blockchain is also increasingly crucial for fan data security and purchase protection, while email security programs stop viruses and phishing scams.
Advanced Streaming
Sports broadcasting is being disrupted by the rise of digitalization. Today's broadcasters want to deliver a tailored experience and comprehensive information while keeping a fast streaming speed. Fans may enjoy a stream with upgraded quality thanks to 3D technologies and 4K resolution. With the help of over-the-top (OTT) platforms, live streams may be seen on many devices from any location via an internet connection.
Another technology that gives viewers the chance to engage in a genuine in-depth experience is virtual reality (VR) streaming. They can practically transfer seats to view the game from various perspectives, thanks to this. Fans can now access more precise information about what is happening during the game thanks to these technologies, which also enhance the broadcasting quality.
Sustainability
Startups are offering technologies that make sports more environmentally friendly in an effort to reduce the harmful effects of the sports tech business. For instance, any leftover food is recycled once the spectators have left the stadium. By preventing food waste from going to landfills, this method lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Innovative methods for reusing rainwater are being used to flush toilets and irrigate grass and plants in and around the smart stadium. Switching to renewable energy is another trend, as stadiums consume a lot of electricity while hosting an event. Green stadiums not only benefit the environment but also save money by using less electricity. Athletes favor donning environmentally friendly clothing composed of durable materials like organic cotton.