Intel and Alibaba Partnered on Athlete Tracking Technology For Olympic Games Tokyo 2020

Right before the opening of Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Intel and Alibaba announced that they were teaming up to develop athlete tracking technology powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that is aimed to be deployed at the Olympic Games Tokyo in 2020.

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“We are proud to partner with Intel on the first-ever AI-powered 3D athlete tracking technology where Alibaba contributes its best-in-class cloud computing capability and algorithmic design,” said Chris Tung, CMO, Alibaba Group.

The technology uses existing and upcoming Intel hardware and Alibaba cloud computing technology to power a cutting-edge deep learning application that generates 3D forms of athletes in training or competition.

“This technology has incredible potential as an athlete training tool and is expected to be a game-changer for the way fans experience the Games, creating an entirely new way for broadcasters to analyze, dissect and reexamine highlights during instant replays,” said Navin Shenoy, executive vice president and general manager of Data Center Group at Intel.

Coaches and trainers will receive intricate real-time biomechanical data — via multiple standard video cameras without special sensors or suit. Fans will also get insight into how world-class athletes perform and then compare the performances of different athletes.

“With our technological advancements, Alibaba is transforming the sports media and broadcasting industries. We continue to collaborate with industry leaders and drive innovations to create new experiences for the world to enjoy,” Tung said.

Featured photo credit to Intel Corporation