Global video solutions provider Accedo, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., and sports broadcast organization HBS have formed a strategic alliance to accelerate the commercialization of XR sports services.
This alliance aims to bridge the sports and XR industries by leveraging Accedo’s expertise in video user experience, Qualcomm Technologies’ Snapdragon-powered XR technology, and HBS’ strong sports ecosystem.
Objectives of the XR Sports Alliance
The XR Sports Alliance is focused on driving the development and deployment of XR sports products and services. It provides an end-to-end solution framework to help stakeholders deploy state-of-the-art XR services efficiently and at scale. The framework includes immersive video production and distribution, system architecture definition, data and monetization frameworks, user testing, and technology and business model advisory elements.
Third-Party Involvement
The program is open to third parties, including XR OEMs, to join and drive the development of purpose-built XR hardware for sports and video entertainment. This inclusion aims to connect leading companies from various industries, facilitating collaboration and innovation to support and accelerate industry growth.
Industry Collaboration and Innovation
Michael Lantz, CEO of Accedo, emphasized the importance of XR as a content distribution and user engagement platform. He highlighted the alliance’s goal to connect industry stakeholders to collaborate and innovate, allowing sports rights owners and holders to make data-driven decisions.
Patrick Costello, Senior Director of Product Management at Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., noted the transformative potential of XR experiences for sports fan engagement. He emphasized the rise in adoption of immersive entertainment experiences due to new XR devices and increased investment by OEMs in sports content rights.
Sylvain Lebreton, Head of Digital Services at HBS, described the program as a game-changer for the sports industry, aimed at driving innovation and accelerating the development and deployment of commercial XR sports services.
Panel Discussion at AWE USA
The founders of the XR Sports Alliance, Accedo, Qualcomm Technologies, and HBS, will participate in a panel discussion at AWE USA on Wednesday, June 19, at 11:45 am in the Grand Ballroom. The discussion will focus on how immersive sports experiences will transform the future of fan engagement.
About Qualcomm
Qualcomm Technologies Inc., a subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated, is a leading global provider of mobile processors, modems, and wireless technology and services. The company was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in San Diego, California. Qualcomm is publicly traded on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol “QCOM.”
About Accedo
Accedo is a leading provider of TV application solutions, offering applications, tools, and services to media companies, consumer electronics, and TV operators globally. Founded in 2004 by Michael Lantz and Fredrik Andersson, Accedo is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, with branch offices in multiple cities, including London, Madrid, Mountain View, New York, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and Sydney.
About Host Broadcast Services (HBS)
Host Broadcast Services (HBS) is a specialist host broadcast organization founded in 1999. Initially established to produce television and radio signals for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, HBS has grown to become a leader in sports broadcasting, known for delivering high-quality production services for major sporting events worldwide.
