In the spirit of football season being kicked into high gear last weekend, Start-Opia highlights the Atlanta-based startup, XYCAST this week. XYCAST is known for creating technology that will enhance the stadium experience… and it is only the size of two shoeboxes. By using XYCAST, sports arenas can beam personalized video highlights, photos, stats, play-by-play analysis, and interactive games to mobile phones up to a mile away using an in-stadium transmitter.
“This technology is the equivalent of an interactive personal jumbotron delivering a custom broadcast simultaneous to the live event,” says Bruce Cox, chief executive officer of XYCAST. “The XYCAST platform is valuable technology that teams and venue owners will use as a tool to enhance the fan experience before, during and after the game. Programming can be customized to the game or stadium, even targeting a specific segment of fans within the stadium.”
There is no need to set up cell data and Wi-Fi networks because this technology works in a unique way without it. Football fans can use a hand-held XYCAST Personal Data Receiver (PDR) that connects to their mobile phone using Bluetooth technology. Fans can receive specific content, real-time game updates, video highlights, and more. Another interesting aspect is that football teams are provided with a new way to interact with their supporters. XYCAST plans to pilot their innovative technology at Auburn University, Florida State University, United States Naval Academy, University of Michigan, and University of South Carolina during this 2014 season.
