The digital age has revolutionized industries in various sectors across the globe, including those that the wider population relies on each and every day. From healthcare to big businesses, financial services and more, new technologies are undoubtedly transforming the human experience. This also goes for the way people experience sports, those that take place on a real stage and those which occupy a virtual universe. Tech innovations are disrupting both traditional athletics and E-sports, or the next-generation trend of multi-player video game competitions. In this article we take a look at four practically ways in which this is happening today.
High Speed Connectivity
When 5G was first launched back in 2019, no one could have predicted the mass growth the technology would undergo. Nowadays, a significant number of mobile phones are equipped with 5G networks which plunge users into navigation experiences that are over 10 times faster than its predecessor, 4G. So, you may be wondering how this affects sports fandom and engagement in our current times. Well, since many fans use their mobile devices daily to bet online, stream games or competitions, and read news/ stats, they are now experiencing lightning-fast results thanks to the low latency levels that 5G provides. The technology allows fans to have connective experiences at a physical matchup in a stadium, as well as in high-profile E-sports competitions.
5G ensures that users benefit from lightning-fast downloads and massive network capabilities
The Rise of Online and Mobile Betting
Betting is a valued aspect of fandom in both traditional sports and E-sports. Nowadays, a variety of desktop and mobile platforms exist to serve supporters, allowing them to interact with their favorite players and gamers in real-time by placing wagers on different outcomes and fixtures. When it comes to non-Esports leagues such as the NFL, MLB, and NBA, the US sports betting market is continuously opening its doors to new virtual providers as more bills are passed to legalize the activity across the nation.
Thanks to the world wide web, these sites are able to connect with fans directly, giving them up close and personal looks at their offers and features. For example, theScore Bet sportsbook review is one of these which outlines the platform’s pros and cons so that users know exactly what they will get out of the service before signing up. The E-sports community also provides interested bettors with numerous opportunities to stake wagers on professional video gamers and tournaments, featuring live in-game betting, prop bets, and more. However, online and mobile sports betting would not be possible without the unique digital ecosystems that tech innovations have created.
Streaming Opportunities Galore
Years ago, sports fans would have to set their alarm or create a reminder to be sure to tune into live games on television, as recording or live streaming was not yet mainstream. Fast forward to 2021 and there are over a dozen different ways to enjoy live sports, whether through a mobile app, internet site, or subscription service. Fans do not have to worry about missing a game-winning catch or jaw-dropping play, as every moment is attainable after the fact.
The same goes for the world of E-sports where streaming is one of the most important aspects of the industry with major tournaments and events being broadcasted live on platforms like Twitch and Steam year-round. For example, one of the world’s largest digital festivals named DreamHack, which originated out of Sweden, is live-streamed for fans so that even those that do not live in the European country or its surroundings can enjoy all the action. These remote experiences allow people to stay connected with the help of technology, increasing engagement and interaction in the sports industry and beyond.
Online streaming services have been huge factors in increasing sports fan engagement
Cloud-Based Technologies
Because cloud-based technologies enable huge data sets to be analyzed and organized, the fan experience is affected in big ways. Firstly, in non-virtual sports leagues, cloud technology allows supporters to receive more in-depth information regarding stats, probabilities, outcomes, etc. Likewise, streaming services are now adopting cloud tech in order to provide users with faster speeds and larger bandwidth capabilities. When it comes to E-sports, the cloud dramatically improves viewing experiences as well, ensuring a robust delivery of all content.