Intel will provide the NBA with virtual reality and 360 video technologies

The first immersive videos will be produced coinciding with the 2018 All-Star, which will be held in Los Angeles.

The NBA has signed an agreement with Intel, by which the technology group becomes its exclusive provider of virtual reality and 360-degree content. The first immersive videos will be produced coinciding with the 2018 All-Star, which will be held in Los Angeles. The first beneficiary will be Turner Sports, which will broadcast the images through its TNT channel. Until now, this possibility was only available through the NBA League Pass app.

The agreement contemplates that the multinational can share this content with the rest of the television operators that own the NBA in the rest of the world, including Movistar+ in Spain. In addition, they will allow several options for users who follow a broadcast with this technology, whether sitting at the foot of the court or watching the game from a bird's eye view.
James Carwana, executive vice president of Intel, said: “Intel is working with sports leagues and organizations around the world to develop and deliver the most advanced immersive experiences that will make sports more engaging for the next generation of fans.”

The project also includes additional innovation in the use of 360-degree repetitions. While LaLiga offers users already edited videos, the NBA is considering allowing viewers to freeze the action and change the point of view whenever they wish.

Intel VR Technology

Will Funk, executive vice president of marketing at Turner Sports, notes that "Turner Sports and Turner Ignite Sports have been at the forefront of delivering exciting new experiences to fans. This unprecedented partnership, with Turner Sports as the NBA's first broadcast partner to offer the latest Intel VR technology, does just that. We look forward to bringing this partnership to life through our broadcasts, as well as telling the story behind the power of Intel's True VR technology in other unique and unexpected ways."

Each virtual reality game experience will be available through the NBA on TNT VR app for Samsung GearVR devices and Google Daydream downloadable in the Oculus and Google Play stores.

Jeff Marsilio, NBA vice president of global media distribution, said: "This is an exciting time to be a basketball fan, and we are thrilled to be working with Intel and Turner Sports to make virtual reality and 360-degree NBA content available on TNT. We are committed to providing the most innovative and immersive experiences possible for our fans."