Revolutionizing Sports: How Tech Startups are Empowering Blind Fans with Tactile Devices

Transforming the Game Experience for Visually Impaired Fans

Three innovative startups—OneCourt, Field of Vision, and Touch2See—are on a mission to revolutionize the way blind fans engage with live sports. Based in Seattle, Dublin, and Toulouse respectively, these companies are developing tactile devices that allow visually impaired spectators to experience the thrill of sports like never before.

The Inspiration Behind the Innovation

The founders of these startups were inspired by a common theme: videos showing blind individuals being guided to understand the dynamics of a soccer match. Instead of letting these insights fade away, they sought to create technology that would allow blind fans to follow the action in real-time.

Tactile Broadcasting

These devices, referred to as “tactile broadcasters,” convert on-field action into movements that can be felt. Touch2See’s sales director, John Brimacombe, emphasizes the need for scalability, stating, “How can we make it more affordable and accessible?” This innovation comes amid a sports data revolution, where clubs utilize advanced analytics to enhance performance.

How It Works

Each startup has a unique approach:

• Field of Vision uses low-latency cameras to process data and provide real-time feedback, with vibrations indicating key events such as goals or tries.
• Touch2See employs vibration-based feedback systems that correspond to different actions in the game.
• OneCourt utilizes a pixel-based system akin to animated braille, allowing users to feel the game unfold.

Multi-Sensory Experience

All three devices not only provide tactile feedback but also integrate audio commentary for a comprehensive experience. They can accept connected commentary feeds or utilize a text-to-speech system for instant event updates, ensuring no one misses a moment.

Connectivity Challenges

While these devices enhance the live experience, they also face connectivity challenges in crowded stadiums. OneCourt and Field of Vision prefer Wi-Fi but are equipped for 5G, while Touch2See prioritizes 5G for flexibility. A stable connection is vital to reduce latency and ensure real-time interaction with the game.

Expanding Beyond Stadiums

The future for these startups includes home versions of their devices, aiming to reach the broader audience of sports fans who prefer watching from home. OneCourt has plans to release its home product soon, navigating challenges such as data licensing and broadcast synchronization.

Real Impact on Fans

These technologies have already made significant strides, with devices being used in high-profile events like the Olympics and major sports leagues. Fans like Martin Gordon, who lost his sight over two decades ago, describe the experience as “incredible”, allowing him to feel the action on the pitch. Videos of blind fans using these devices have gone viral, showcasing the profound impact on their sports experience.

“It completely adds to my experience as a supporter,” Gordon states, illustrating how technology is bridging the gap for visually impaired fans in the world of sports.