Hockey sportsbiz

Sportway and DMC Production Revolutionize Ice Hockey Broadcasts with AI-Driven PTZ Camera Technology

September 21, 2024

Sportway and DMC Production have announced their groundbreaking achievement as the first companies to utilize Studio Automated’s AI technology for controlling professional PTZ cameras in a multi-camera production of all twelve venues of the Synerglace Ligue Magnus, the premier ice hockey league in France. This innovative approach marks a significant milestone in sports broadcasting, combining cutting-edge AI capabilities with unmatched production quality.

Managed from DMC’s state-of-the-art production center in Stockholm, the deployment of AI technology allows for seamless, high-definition coverage of every game, enhancing the viewer experience with dynamic and precise camera work. The Studio Automated AI system ensures that each moment of action is captured with professional finesse, offering fans an immersive and engaging viewing experience.

In addition to this technological advancement, DMC Production and Sportway have partnered with PlaySight to integrate a VAR (Video Assistant Referee) light solution. This collaboration ensures enhanced accuracy and fairness in officiating, provides real-time review capabilities, and supports referees in making critical decisions.

“We are thrilled to pioneer the use of AI in sports broadcasting for the Synerglace Ligue Magnus. Our goal is to elevate the broadcast quality of French ice hockey and provide fans with the best possible viewing experience. With AI-driven PTZ camera control, we are setting a new standard in sports broadcasting,” said Johan Hedblom, Managing Director of DMC Production, Sweden.

Sportway Media Group’s CEO, Daniel Franck added, “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance the production quality of top-level sports events. By integrating AI technology into a broadcast-quality production, we are not only improving the broadcast for fans but also streamlining operations for our production teams.”

“Working with DMC Production and Sportway to implement our AI technology in the fast-paced environment of ice hockey is truly exciting,” said Paul Valk, Founder and Director of Studio Automated. “We are confident that our AI-driven PTZ camera controller will significantly enhance the production value of Synerglace Ligue Magnus games.”

The Fédération Française de Hockey sur Glace (FFHG) supports this initiative, recognizing the potential of AI technology to transform the way ice hockey is presented to audiences. This partnership underscores FFHG’s commitment to innovation and excellence in promoting the sport.

This initiative sets a new standard for sports broadcasting, showcasing the potential of AI technology to transform how live sports are produced and consumed. Thanks to DMC Production’s and Sportway’s visionary approach and technological prowess, fans can look forward to a season of unparalleled coverage.

Hockey sportsbiz