First Reported on: fortune.com
Pioneering development in sports coverage
In a breakthrough for sports coverage, the 2023 World Series will witness the use of drones for the first time ever. This technological innovation is aimed at complementing UmpCam, previously launched by Fox during the American League Divisional Series. The integration of drone technology will offer viewers exclusive and engaging views, as well as revolutionary aerial perspectives of the game, effectively enhancing the overall fan experience. As drone technology continues to improve, it is anticipated that it will pave the way for even more creative methods of capturing and showcasing the excitement and intensity of the World Series to viewers across the globe.
Introducing the drones and their functionalities
Three state-of-the-art drones, dubbed “Gimbal Bee”, “Hummer Lite”, and “Hummingbird”, will be employed during the event. However, only one drone will be airborne at any given time, and will be positioned strategically between the outfield and bullpens. Each drone will be operated by a two-person crew, with one individual responsible for piloting and the other tasked with controlling the gimbal in order to obtain the most captivating shots and angles. These drones will provide home viewers with an immersive experience, exhibiting the players’ athleticism in an unprecedented manner.
Drone usage regulations and considerations for safety
It is important to note that the drones will not be used to follow live gameplay, but rather will be utilized during moments when players are in the dugout or moving between bullpen and pitcher’s mound. This approach aims to not only enhance the fan experience but also ensure player safety during the game. By capturing these unique angles and moments, audiences will gain a better understanding of player dynamics and interactions.
Complementing drone coverage with immersive audio
To further enhance the fan experience, more than 100 microphones will be strategically placed throughout the stadium to capture sounds from both players and spectators. This immersive audio experience aims to replicate the feeling of being physically present in the stadium for fans watching remotely. Furthermore, the combination of player interactions and crowd reactions will create a dynamic audio landscape that adds to the overall enjoyment of the event.
Evolution of drone technology in sports broadcasts
Fox began incorporating drone technology into their sports broadcasts in 2018, during the Daytona 500, after receiving authorization for their use in sports coverage back in 2015. The implementation of drones has since forever changed the way in which sporting events are captured by providing unique aerial perspectives and enhancing viewer experiences. As a result, drones have become a vital component of modern sports coverage.
Impact of drones on live sports broadcasting
By 2017, drones had become a regular feature in live sports broadcasts owing to advancements in technology that have made it easier to capture unique angles and real-time footage. This has taken the viewer experience to unprecedented heights. The integration of drones in sports broadcasting has not only granted fans better perspectives but also offered broadcasters more innovative and creative ways of presenting the game.
Exciting showdown with a drone’s eye view
The 2023 World Series is scheduled to begin on Friday night at 8:03 p.m. ET, with Fox handling the broadcast. This eagerly anticipated match-up will showcase two of Major League Baseball’s most formidable teams. Fans will be treated to an exhilarating best-of-seven series, during which players will undoubtedly exhibit their passion and skill on the field with the aid of stunning drone footage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of using drones in the 2023 World Series?
The use of drones in the 2023 World Series will offer viewers exclusive and engaging views, as well as revolutionary aerial perspectives of the game, effectively enhancing the overall fan experience.
What types of drones will be employed during the event?
Three state-of-the-art drones, dubbed “Gimbal Bee”, “Hummer Lite”, and “Hummingbird”, will be employed during the event.
How will drones be used during the games?
Drones will be utilized during moments when players are in the dugout or moving between the bullpen and pitcher’s mound. They will not follow live gameplay but will be positioned strategically to capture captivating shots and angles.
How will the use of drones ensure player safety?
The drones will be operated during moments when players are not involved in live gameplay, thus ensuring that the drones will not pose any threat to player safety during the game.
What is the role of audio in enhancing the fan experience?
More than 100 microphones will be placed throughout the stadium to capture sounds from both players and spectators. This immersive audio experience aims to replicate the feeling of being physically present in the stadium for fans watching remotely.
When did Fox start incorporating drone technology into their sports broadcasts?
Fox began incorporating drone technology into their sports broadcasts in 2018, during the Daytona 500.
When is the 2023 World Series scheduled to begin?
The 2023 World Series is scheduled to begin on Friday night at 8:03 p.m. ET, with Fox handling the broadcast.
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Jose Francisco Morales;Unsplash; Thank you!
