Major League Soccer (MLS) is set to revolutionize the way fans experience soccer by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The MLS will broadcast a live match from its developmental league in four different languages using AI, marking a significant milestone in sports broadcasting.
The upcoming match between Orlando City B and Inter Miami II at the 2024 Generation Adidas Cup will be available in English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese. This international elite soccer tournament also serves as a platform for showcasing cutting-edge sports technology developed by the MLS Innovation Lab.
Camb.AI, one of the participants in the 2024 intake of this tech accelerator program, will use its AI dubbing platform to instantly translate English language commentary into three other languages while preserving the original speaker's voice and tone. According to MLS officials, this is an unprecedented feat in live sports broadcasting.
MLS to serve as testing ground for innovative sports tech
The game will also serve as a testing ground for other members of the MLS Innovation Lab. Fitogether plans to equip all players with tech-infused vests that utilize hybrid GPS video systems. This innovative technology aims to provide analytical capabilities that could significantly enhance youth soccer training methods.
Chris Schlosser, senior vice president of emerging ventures- MLS, said:
“Soccer is a global game, as illustrated by the players and teams who will be competing at Generation Adidas Cup, as well as in our MLS ecosystem every day, so it is fitting that we are able to offer this MLS Next Pro match broadcast in multiple international languages,”
“MLS Next Pro is a league of innovation and this is yet another example of the league’s ability to test cutting-edge technologies.”
Simultaneously, Stadium US intends to leverage its 5G-powered AI camera system during this match. The advanced camera setup promises an automated broadcast with live streaming capabilities that could redefine how fans watch their favorite teams play.
Apple Vision Pro to make debut in MLS
In addition to these advancements, MLS has launched an immersive short film captured in an 8K 3D video format designed specifically for Apple Vision Pro mixed reality headset users. This five-minute film offers viewers a unique perspective on the action-packed scenes from the 2023 MLS playoffs through a captivating blend of match footage and behind-the-scenes content presented at a wide-angle view of 180 degrees.
Seth Bacon, Senior Vice President of Media at MLS, highlighted the role of their US$2.5 billion, ten-year global deal with Apple in elevating the league's profile. This partnership not only expands MLS's global reach but also fosters technological innovation that enhances fan engagement and viewing experiences.
Seth Bacon, Senior Vice President of Media at MLS, said:
“We’re lucky because of the partnership with Apple, we’re embedded in Vision Pro from the start,”
“There are other immersive headsets out there – my kids use them – but this one takes you deeper and completely encases you … and you are transported to a different place. The action on the field is really exciting but that’s not the whole experience at an MLS match – it’s in the stands, it’s what’s happening around the game.
“[The film] really does take you into a sport in a new and different way. We’re ultimately working with [Apple] to see how that ultimately manifests itself in the first live game [on Apple Vision Pro].”
The integration of AI technology into sports broadcasting represents a significant leap forward for Major League Soccer and its fans worldwide. By offering multilingual live commentary and an immersive viewing experience through Apple Vision Pro, MLS is setting new standards in sports broadcasting while catering to a diverse audience base.
