The X Games Partners with Google Cloud to Test AI-Powered Judging System for Snowboarding Competitions
The X Games, a premier action sports event, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Google Cloud to test an artificial intelligence (AI) powered judging system for snowboarding competitions. The innovative system, powered by Google Cloud’s machine learning capabilities, aims to revolutionize the way judges score and evaluate the performances of snowboarders at the X Games.
The partnership marks a significant milestone in the development of AI-powered judging systems, which have the potential to increase the accuracy and efficiency of competition judging. The X Games, which take place in Aspen, Colorado, will serve as a testing ground for the system, with plans to implement it in future events.
The AI-powered judging system uses machine learning algorithms to analyze video footage of snowboarding performances, identifying and scoring key aspects such as style, difficulty, and execution. The system can also provide real-time feedback to judges, helping them to make more informed decisions and reducing the risk of human error.
According to Google Cloud, the AI-powered judging system has been trained on a dataset of thousands of snowboarding competitions, allowing it to learn the nuances of the sport and recognize patterns and trends in judging. The system is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing it to evolve with the sport and incorporate new techniques and tricks.
"We’re thrilled to partner with Google Cloud to test this innovative judging system," said Tim McChesney, President of X Games. "The X Games is committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in action sports, and this technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we judge and evaluate performances."
The AI-powered judging system has several benefits, including increased accuracy, reduced bias, and faster results. In addition, the system can provide valuable insights and analytics to competitors, coaches, and fans, allowing them to better understand the judging process and improve their performances.
The partnership with Google Cloud also marks a significant step forward for the X Games in terms of its commitment to innovation and technology. The event has a long history of incorporating cutting-edge technology, including live streaming, social media integration, and virtual reality experiences.
"We’re excited to bring our machine learning expertise to the X Games and help them push the boundaries of what’s possible in action sports," said Aparna Dhinakaran, Managing Director of Google Cloud’s Media and Entertainment business. "The AI-powered judging system has the potential to make a significant impact on the sport, and we’re proud to be a part of this innovative partnership."
The X Games, which will take place from January 23 to 26, 2023, will feature a range of snowboarding competitions, including snowboard cross, halfpipe, and slopestyle. The event will be broadcast live on ESPN and streamed online, with the AI-powered judging system set to debut in select competitions.
The partnership between the X Games and Google Cloud marks a significant step forward for the sport of snowboarding, and has the potential to shape the future of judging and competition evaluation in action sports.
