AI and Tech Innovations Transform Paris 2024 Olympics

With applications ranging from athlete safeguarding to enhanced broadcast experiences and efficient energy management, artificial intelligence (AI) and technology innovations are set to transform the Olympic Games Paris 2024. These advancements pave the way for future editions of the Games.

Olympic AI Agenda and Implementation

In a groundbreaking initiative, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) launched the Olympic AI Agenda in April 2024, outlining the envisioned impact AI can have on sports. Paris 2024 will witness the first examples of this implementation.

"The IOC will use AI at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in different areas. A very important one is safeguarding from cyber abuse, since we expect about half a billion social media posts during these Games. AI will also be used to create highlights videos in multiple formats and languages during these Games. We are also using AI to make the Olympic Games more sustainable through a very sophisticated first-ever data capture and energy management system. AI is also opening up new ways for talent identification, and this project will be launched globally in 2025 to to live up to the commitment we made that AI in sport must be accessible to everybody.” — Thomas Bach, IOC President

Athlete Safeguarding and New Chat Service

The AI-powered monitoring system designed to protect athletes from online abuse was announced earlier this year by the IOC. It will monitor hundreds of thousands of social media accounts and flag abusive messages for intervention by relevant platforms.

Additionally, athletes will be able to test a new chat service provided in partnership with Intel on the Athlete365 platform. This service aims to offer quick answers to frequently asked questions on topics such as social media guidelines, anti-doping rules, and Rule 50 regulations.

AI for Efficient Planning and Sustainability

AI applications behind the scenes are set to improve the planning of future Olympic Games. Real-time monitoring of energy consumption at Paris 2024 will inform future planning. Operational data has been gathered since 2020 to enhance the management of the Games.

Digital twinning, or digital representations of venues, allows planners to foresee requirements for power, camera placements, and accessibility issues without needing to be on site.

Enhanced Broadcast Experience

Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), in collaboration with the IOC's commercial and broadcast partners, will use AI during Paris 2024 to improve workflows, enhance viewer experiences, enrich storytelling, and explain sports events better. This includes working with Alibaba to provide multi-camera replay systems with AI-powered, high-quality reconstruction in the cloud, delivering more compelling replays from various angles across 21 sports and disciplines.

Official Timekeeping and Data Analysis

OMEGA will act as the Official Timekeeper for the 31st time, working with OBS to unlock AI's potential for delivering faster, more insightful data. For example, AI-based stroboscopic analysis will enhance understanding of athlete movements in diving, athletics, and gymnastics. AI will also generate enhanced data graphics for diving performances and provide motion tracking technology for various sports.

AI for Automatic Highlights Generation

Intel, as the Official AI Platform Partner for Paris 2024, will introduce Automatic Highlights Generation, automatically compiling key moments from 14 sports into tailored highlights reels. This initiative aims to personalize content for Media Rights-Holders and engage digital and social media audiences.

Transforming the Olympic Experience

Paris 2024 showcases an extensive use of AI, changing experiences for athletes, spectators, and organizers. AI innovations include AthleteGPT, an AI chatbot providing 24/7 assistance through the Athlete365 app, and AI-powered 3D athlete tracking technology offering detailed biomechanical insights. AI is also being used in talent scouting, as demonstrated by a recent IOC pilot program in Senegal. NBC will use AI to provide personalized highlights and real-time statistics for viewers.

The Future of AI in Sports

The use of AI at the Paris 2024 Olympics marks a significant moment for AI adoption in sports. As AI becomes more normalized globally, it could herald a new era in sports viewing and management.