Industrial Revolution can be described as the transition to a modern manufacturing assembly. The increasing usage of steam and water power; the development of machine tools; and the rise of mechanized factory systems, greatly increased output. Additionally, this led to an unprecedented increase and rise in both population and the rate of population growth. This time period in history is often considered one of the most important in human history, and rightly so, but we are also in the midst of a revolution of our own.

While the digital age is already well and truly underway, the fifth industrial revolution looks set to propel us into a time in which humans and machines work synergistically and encompasses the notion of harmonious human?machine collaborations. The impact technology has had on almost every sector, industry and individual in the world is clear for all to see. This fact was the core motivation to put an article together to highlight its effect on something that billions of people do every year, watch sports. So, let?s take a look at how technology is transforming the fan experience?

Availability In The Modern Age

For many readers, it will not feel like long ago that the possibility to watch live sports was completely different. As recently as two decades ago, a live game was a luxury, and you would only be able to watch the highlights of your favorite team if you made it to television at a specific time.
Both technology and general interest have resulted in live sports and highlight packages being more available than ever before. There are more live games being shown than at any time in history and this only looks likely to increase. Moreover, thanks to the internet, and the rise in ultimate camera technology, like the RDMA Camera, you can now watch games and/or highlight packages when you are on the go from your smartphone or laptop.

The Story Surrounding The Game

The increase in punditry and information surrounding sports has evolved into something that at one point, no one could imagine. In addition to the punditry coming from mainstream sports and news channels, the internet is home to an abundance of information. Whether you are looking for straight statistics or casual conversations, you will be able to find what you are looking for.

For lifelong fans, the rise of the podcast has allowed them to connect to their team via specific shows talking only about their club. For new fans, simple information is available that will allow you to familiarise yourself with every aspect of the sport. So whether you are looking to find out
how long an NHL game lasts, or where and when the next FIFA World Cup is, the answer is only a few clicks away.

 Coverage

When it comes to watching the games themselves, technology has had a particularly significant effect. The cameras have increased in quality, the access to the players has increased, and the ability to follow the game has moved to new levels.

This is true both in terms of replays and directly to the in-game events in terms of technology-based rules. Whether it is goal-line technology or some form of video assistant refereeing, sports fans now have a front-row seat to every last detail.

 The Future Is Now

As sports fans, it is important to remind ourselves how lucky we actually are to be alive in an age in which the exponential growth of technology has allowed us unprecedented access to both the sports and the teams we love.

So the next time you sit down to watch a game, remember that it is the miracle of technology that is providing such a rich viewing experience.