Microsoft and the NBA are teaming to bring a new way of broadcasting to the fans with personalized AI learning. Viewers will be able to stream live NBA matches from Microsoft Azure complete with personalized real-time stats overlays. In addition, historical video archives can also be accessed by viewers.
“Our goal, working with Microsoft, is to create customized content that allows fans — whether they are in an NBA arena or watching from anywhere around the world — to immerse themselves in all aspects of the game and engage directly with our teams and players,” says NBA commissioner Adam Silver.
The new platform, which will begin with the 2020-21 NBA season, can be availed by those who have the NBA League Pass subscription. It will feature new gaming elements as well as rewards. Viewers can earn loyalty points by watching and can use these points for discounts on merchandise, tickets, or exclusive content as per Variety.
The live streaming will be monitored by an AI to personalize user experience. In addition, tiered rewards, badges, personal achievements, and streaks will also be included in the system. For instance, if a player breaks a record live on stream, the digital service will also show a list of clips of other players who had previously held that record.
Microsoft has become the “Official Artificial Intelligence Partner” for the WNBA, NBA G League, and USA Basketball with this deal. Microsoft is also an associate partner for all future events now.
The league is currently offering a free preview of NBA League Pass after the remainder of the NBA’s 2019-20 season was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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