AI platform technology is transforming the Olympic Games Paris 2024

As we spent the last few weeks glued to our televisions for the Paris 2024 Olympics - and soon enough the Paralympic Games - or have been lucky enough to have a ticket, it's becoming increasingly clear that this isn't just a celebration of global athletic prowess – it's a technological revolution unfolding before our eyes. While world records are being challenged on the field, track, and in the pool, another kind of history is being made behind the scenes and in the hands of millions of spectators worldwide.

The integration of cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) platform technology, which was much anticipated in the lead-up to these Games, is now proving its worth in real-time. From the streets of Paris to living rooms across the globe, we're witnessing firsthand how these innovations are transforming the Olympic experience. Let's take a closer look at how AI is reshaping these Games, and what it means for the future of international sporting events.

A definitive test for new technologies

Over these four weeks, the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 and technology companies are having the opportunity to shine by demonstrating the global capacity for true innovation in AI. The deployment of advanced AI platform technologies at these Olympic Games is providing us with insights and learnings that will undoubtedly be applied across multiple industries in the coming years. For example, we are able to understand more precisely the socioeconomic and cultural impact of the Olympics, the development and testing of new technologies, as well as advanced sports data analysis. This is proving invaluable not only for coaches and athletes but also for the audience.

Another marvel is that these are the first Olympic and Paralympic Games to be broadcast live in 8K from start to finish. 8K! This means we have future-proof image quality. Additionally, we are experiencing an immersive sports experience that is helping us understand how athletic potential is measured– with unprecedented precision and efficiency. For instance, there is an Intel AI-platform powered interactive experience for fans, allowing them to be matched with their ideal Olympic event.

Leveraging these technologies is also driving advances in accessibility for athletes living with visual impairments, with Xeon processors enabling interactive indoor navigation that is available through a smartphone app. They are able to navigate the world and explore their surroundings with voice assistance and 3D models that – thanks to AI – understand the environment and identify objects.

Redefining the experience of the Olympic Games

Thousands of athletes, journalists, volunteers, and millions of spectators are part of Paris 2024. Let's not forget that technology is essential in maintaining seamless operations and logistical management at the 22 venues, which span 56 locations in Paris, Lille, and Châteauroux.

Although various tools for sports automation and different AI platform technologies – such as a virtual reality training system for athletes – were used at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, Paris 2024 is proving to be a unique experience with AI strengthening the data and analysis behind the scenes.

Another thing you should know is that the implementation of private 5G networks is ensuring ultra-fast connectivity and an unprecedented data transmission capacity. This is facilitating the work of organisers and presenters in bringing new innovations, such as onboard cameras in sailing boats, bringing the audience closer to the action than ever before. Undoubtedly, these are the most inclusive, accessible, and technological Olympics in history!

A very technological Olympics

As technology transforms sport, the spirit of the Olympics remains undiminished. If anything, these advancements have intensified our connection to the Games and to each other, getting us closer to the action than ever before.

The Paris 2024 Games will be remembered not just for the medals won, but for ushering in a new era of technologically enhanced sport. I am incredibly proud that it has been Intel which has introduced these technologies as the official AI platform partner. As we cheer on our athletes over the coming days, we'll also be celebrating a future where technology and human potential combine to create experiences that inspire and unite us all.