First the NBA attached microphones on coaches to give fans a better idea of what goes on off the court and now the WNBA is introducing the Ref Cam. As its suggest suggests, it is a camera that the referees wear. Boasting a similar design to Google Glass, the Ref Cam provides a never-before-seen perspective of the game for pundits and sports fans.
First worn by WNBA referee Lamont Simpson, the Ref Cam functions much like GoPro. It was developed by Broadcast Games Inc. According to BSI General Manager Peter Larsson, "The whole concept is to get the viewer down on the court, get them as close as you can. Technology isn’t there to get the size down to put it on the player."
What's Driving This Trend
- Referee Wearable Cameras
- Wearable cameras that provide a unique on-court perspective for sports fans and pundits.
- Viewership-enhancing Technology
- Technological innovations that aim to bring fans closer to the action and enhance their viewing experience.
- Sporting Event Immersion
- Efforts to immerse viewers in sporting events by offering never-before-seen perspectives and increased engagement.
Who This Affects Most
- Sports Broadcasting
- The industry that can leverage referee wearable cameras to provide new and immersive viewing experiences for sports fans.
- Sports Technology
- The industry that embraces viewership-enhancing technology to enhance the engagement and enjoyment of sporting events.
- Sports Accessories
- The industry that can explore the development of wearable cameras and related accessories for sports enthusiasts and professionals.
