Telecom companies in South Korea are finding new pathways in sports broadcasting through the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI), expanding their offerings beyond baseball. With the inability to stream Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) games online, they’re diversifying their sports content, thereby enhancing their platform competitiveness.
LG U+ Breaks Through with “SPOKI” AI Streaming Service
LG U+ has seen success with its sports platform “SPOKI,” particularly with the feature “KBO Biased Live Talk,” which amassed over 10 million views in the first two months post-launch. The platform’s daily active users increased by 30% after the KBO season opening, indicating the popularity of this AI-based feature. Instead of live game broadcasts, dedicated streamers provide team-specific commentary and support.
AI-Enhanced Sports and Prediction Services on the Rise
LG U+ also offers innovative services like customizable virtual baseball teams and OX prediction quizzes, fostering user engagement. They plan to continue refining their proprietary AI, “ixi,” to improve game outcome predictions and develop more sports entertainment content based on user feedback.
SK Telecom Unveils “A. Golf” AI Service
SK Telecom has introduced “A. Golf,” a new service providing golf commentary and content, replacing KBO broadcasts. It utilizes generative AI to present trivia and insights during live games and is set to launch during the “SK Telecom Open 2024.” They aim to expand their AI sports content, also offering handball and pro basketball (KBL) streams.
These telecom operators continue their quest for KBO online broadcasting rights, despite Tving’s current exclusive agreement and lack of intention to resell the rights. They remain poised to negotiate should the opportunity arise.
Increased User Engagement Through AI Innovation in Sports Broadcasting
South Korean telecom companies are leveraging AI innovation to attract consumers and provide alternative sports content. LG U+’s “SPOKI” service and SK Telecom’s “A. Golf” exemplify how these companies are utilizing AI not just for game outcome predictions but also for creating personalized and interactive fan experiences. This technology allows for deep user engagement with features such as team-specific commentary, virtual team customization, and live prediction games.
Challenges for Telecom Operators in Acquiring KBO Online Broadcasting Rights
One key challenge these telecom companies face is securing the online broadcasting rights for KBO games, as Tving holds an exclusive agreement and is not interested in reselling these rights. Despite this, the telecom operators are continuing to explore negotiations and remain hopeful that they may eventually be able to offer KBO game streaming to their users.
Potential Advantages and Disadvantages of AI in Sports Broadcasting
Advantages:
– AI-driven sports services can offer personalized experiences that cater to individual preferences.
– Such innovations can lead to higher user engagement and loyalty as customers enjoy enhanced interactivity and content tailored to their interests.
– The use of AI enables the provision of additional content like trivia and insights, enriching the viewing experience beyond traditional broadcasts.
Disadvantages:
– The lack of traditional live game broadcasts might deter some sports fans who prefer the classic viewing experience.
– Relying on AI for game predictions and content generation may introduce biases or inaccuracies, causing frustration or disillusionment amongst users.
– The technology and ongoing developments for these AI services may incur substantial costs which could translate into higher prices for consumers or could hedge company resources in a direction that may not meet future regulatory or market approval.
Related Links
For more information on AI in sports broadcasting and related technological advancements:
– LG Uplus
– SK Telecom
Should you wish to explore similar topics about AI’s impact on industries, regulatory challenges, and the balance between innovation and traditional services, these main domain links offer further insights and developments with a broader scope.
The source of the article is from the blog exofeed.nl