The United States Golf Association is launching a variety of updates across two apps ahead of the 2019 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach.
In addition to announcing an over-the-top streaming web app in partnership with Cisco, the association’s official technology partner, the USGA has also announced new virtual and augmented reality experiences that are meant to supplement the fan experience.
In a relaunched U.S. Open app, fans will be able to access a 360-degree experience that aims to make them feel as if they are actually on the course, and behind the scenes, at the tournament. An augmented reality experience in the app allows users to render the U.S. Open trophy so that they can pose alongside it. A virtual photo booth enables fans to take scenic selfies with Pebble Beach as the backdrop. The app can then add subtle movement to the background of the static photo to create a 3D effect.
Fans physically at the course will also be able to use a way finding feature to access step-by-step directions around the course, and course-wide Wi-FI to stay connected to the app.
“We have built a first-of-its-kind, course-wide Wi-Fi network that gives us the speed and confidence to dynamically deliver content and new experiences to our fans through the 2019 U.S. Open App,” said Navin Singh, chief commercial officer of the USGA, in a statement. “We’ve been able to stretch our imagination, creating innovative features that help fans everywhere to consume, share and engage with the championship like never before.”
Separate from the U.S. Open App, another app will offer fans additional augmented reality experiences. Fans will be able to watch live play with three-dimensional views of selected holes. They’ll also be able to select which player to watch, and can also relive the shots of past U.S. Open champions.
Other features delivered through these event-based apps include on-site player tracking, real-time scores, stats, news and highlights, and advanced analytics.
These updates come as the USGA and Cisco have also unveiled an over-the-top app designed to deliver USGA live and on-demand championship content to fans. Available for Apple TV and Roku, the USGA’s OTT App offers golf fans the ability to watch free, live-streaming bonus coverage of the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Senior Open, U.S. Amateur and U.S. Women’s Amateur championships. It also includes highlights from previous tournaments, feature films, and entire final-round broadcasts from some of history’s most memorable championships.