The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced its strategy to use AI in sports, possibly to help identify athletes with potential, personalize training, and enhance judging.
The Olympic organizers emphasized the importance of taking advantage of the rapidly advancing AI with utmost responsibility.
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Olympics to Incorporate AI in Sports
IOC president Thomas Bach shared that the organization is determined to explore the potential of AI in the field of sports. Moreover, he also emphasized that it would be utilized responsibly.
"Today we are making another step to ensure the uniqueness of the Olympic Games and the relevance of sport. To do this, we have to be leaders of change," Bach said.
Based on the IOC's plan, the technology will also be used to protect athletes from online harassment. In addition, it will also help broadcasters to provide an enhanced viewing experience to the public.
Olympics Starts AI Integration This 2024 Summer Games
Last year, plans for the Paris 2024 games were criticized after it revealed that AI would be used for security. The AI-powered cameras will provide a video surveillance system, especially on abandoned packages or packed crowds, throughout the event.
However, concern rose after digital watchdog groups argued that it could legalize smart surveillance systems. There are also concerns about privacy infringement. Regardless, the French government insisted on the technology, citing that facial recognition will not be used.
Other AI projects are expected in the upcoming Paris games. The IOC is in partnership with Intel to help scout potential athletes in different places, such as Senegal, where thousands of children were tested to see how high they can jump and how fast they react.
The shortlisted kids were analyzed by an algorithm and the system recommended the possible sports they could be good at. However, Back stated that there are still risks in relying on AI for scouting AI.
Regardless, the IOC has already created a group that will work on the technology to further improve its integration in sports.
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