sports-technology54.04 min read
Cirqa Deep-Dive: Garmin’s Screenless Band Holds Its Own Across Wrist and Arm Tests
25 days ago•Source: DC Rainmaker
Sports Technology News
The latest sports technology stories, summarized by AI
Featured Sports Technology Stories
View original source
20.015 min•4 months ago
Wahoo & COROS Team Up for Two-Way Data Sync and Run-Ready Hardware Tweaks
Wahoo Fitness and COROS announced a software-focused partnership to enable two-way data sharing between their apps, including workouts syncing in both directions and COROS watch data populating in Wahoo’s app. COROS watches will directly pair with the KICKR RUN via a new Bluetooth channel for faster, more accurate data (including cadence and ground contact time). Wahoo will start selling certain COROS watches on its site, and there are plans to add structured workouts and routes syncing in the future. No hardware mergers are planned—only software integration for now, with some potential long-term ecosystem effects against Garmin.
More Top Stories
2
Favero Power Meter Pedals Receive Big Battery Boost via Quick Firmware Update
DC Rainmaker•6 months ago
3
Strava's Instant Workouts: Big Idea, Rough Execution
DC Rainmaker•7 months ago
More Sports Technology Stories
Sony Unveils New Noise-Canceling Headsets for NFL Coaches
Sony has introduced new noise-canceling headsets designed specifically for NFL coaches, featuring advanced noise cancellation, weather resistance, and secure wireless communication via Verizon's 5G network, replacing Bose as the league's official headset provider.
"Body Rocket Unveils Real-Time Drag Measuring System for Road Bikes and Intriguing Prototype"
Body Rocket, known for its real-time aerodynamic drag force measurement system, has revealed a road bike prototype that brings integrated CdA measurement to bikes without aero bars, coinciding with the approach of the Paris 2024 Olympics. The system aims to provide similar insight into aerodynamics as wind tunnels without the cost, and is designed to give real-time feedback during rides and track progress over time. The prototype, which integrates seamlessly with road bikes, is being developed to help Olympic triathletes perfect their aero tuck on drop bars, and the brand has also launched its latest funding round on Crowdcube.
"MLS 2024: Apple's Plan to Make Americans Love Soccer, Team Previews, and Staff Predictions"
Apple is entering its second year of streaming Major League Soccer matches as part of a $2.5 billion deal, aiming to attract more fans and money to the 28-year-old league. The "MLS Season Pass" offers a sleek streaming package allowing fans to globally stream every game without blackouts for $14.99 per month or $99 for the season. Apple's efforts include glossy studio shows, expanded coverage, and integration of MLS content across its ecosystem of products and services. While actual viewership numbers are undisclosed, the package reportedly surpassed two million subscribers, with a significant surge after soccer superstar Lionel Messi's debut. Despite potentially low viewership, the $250 million yearly cost for Apple is considered a worthwhile investment to pull people into its ecosystem, given soccer's global popularity and the young demographic MLS attracts.
"Record Super Bowl Broadcast Powered by 165 Sony Cameras"
CBS Sports is set to power its Super Bowl LVIII broadcast with 165 Sony cameras, including a significant increase in 4K Zoom-capable cameras, enabling enhanced zooming potential and aiding referees in making accurate calls during video reviews. The cameras, recording in 4K and high framerates, are hardwired and will provide unprecedented fidelity and top-of-the-line technology for viewers at home, with nearly a thousand people working the event to ensure a seamless broadcast. Additionally, the use of smaller FX-series Sony cameras with cinematic capabilities and HDR-capable cameras will add an artistic and visually stunning touch to the broadcast.
"Apple Vision Pro: Revolutionizing Sports Viewing and Virtual Reality Experiences"
The Apple Vision Pro, with its MLB and NBA apps, offers a new level of immersion and interactivity for sports fans, providing 3D renderings, spatial audio, and immersive video experiences. The apps allow users to view games from different perspectives and access real-time player and team stats, potentially posing a challenge to traditional sports bars. While the technology is still evolving, it has the potential to revolutionize how sports are watched, with possibilities for future applications in other sports like the NFL.
"Wahoo KICKR CORE Zwift One: The Ultimate Smart Trainer Collaboration"
The Wahoo KICKR CORE Cog, a variant of the KICKR CORE with the Zwift Cog attached, eliminates the need for physical bike shifters and allows shifting with a remote button. The partnership between Zwift and Wahoo has led to new zero-calibration software/firmware on the CORE, making it compatible with the Zwift Click button for shifting. The trainer is priced at $599USD and offers a flywheel weight of 5.4kg, compatibility with 8-12 speed bikes, and a max incline of 16%. However, shifting is only possible with Zwift, limiting its use with other apps. The trainer also lacks a handle and requires a power cable.
"Wahoo's Surprising Kickr: A Game-Changer in Fitness Tech"
Wahoo has introduced the Kickr Run, a smart treadmill that aims to revolutionize indoor running, featuring hands-free pace adjustments, connectivity to apps like Zwift, and the ability to mimic road conditions. The company's expansion into running marks a shift from its traditional focus on cycling and comes after financial struggles and a change in ownership. The Kickr Run is set to be available in the USA later this summer, with the price yet to be confirmed.
"Zwift Hub One: Simplified Smart Trainer with Virtual Shifting and Universal Compatibility"
Zwift has introduced the Zwift Cog, a virtual shifting system that replaces the cassette on their Hub trainers with a single gear, providing 24 different speeds virtually. This allows for compatibility with multiple bikes without the need to change cassettes, offers a quieter experience, and eliminates the risk of dropped shifts or slow shifting. The virtual shifting is controlled using the Zwift Click or Zwift Play controllers, and the system automatically adjusts the gear ratio based on the bike's characteristics. The Zwift Hub One trainer with the Zwift Cog is available for $599, while existing Hub trainers can be upgraded with the Zwift Cog and Click kit for $79.99.
"BetVision: The Ultimate NFL Viewing and Betting Experience on One Screen"
Genius Sports has introduced BetVision, a new platform that allows football fans to watch and bet on NFL games on the same screen through select sportsbook apps. BetVision offers a low-latency video feed of regional game broadcasts, along with pop-up graphics displaying advanced stats, integrated betting odds, and on-screen wagering during breaks. The platform aims to provide a personalized and seamless betting experience, driving engagement and accelerating the growth of in-game betting. Currently, BetVision only offers NFL games, and it is available on mobile and tablet devices.
"Zwift Play Controllers Revolutionize Indoor Riding Experience"
Zwift has released its Zwift Play controller, which allows users to steer in-game, access settings, and use power-ups while cycling. The controllers are easy to set up and use, with a simple pairing process and a straightforward button scheme. The controllers are also sturdy and solid, with a waterproof design that can withstand sweat. While the $99 beta phase pricing is a good deal for frequent Zwift users, the proposed $149 price tag may be less appealing for those who only use Zwift occasionally. Zwift has plans for more features related to the controllers in the future.