In this Q&A, Amir Gelman, Vice President & General Manager of the Americas, WSC Sports, explores how AI and mobile-first trends are reshaping sports broadcasting, focusing on audience balance, content monetization, and AR/VR integration.

Add AI Takes the Field: The A-List Panel on the Future of Real-Time Sports Broadcasting to your myNAB Show New York Planner.

What are the biggest trends impacting real-time sports broadcasting this fall and heading into 2025?

– Generative AI for Personalized Content: AI-driven highlights and automated content curation are transforming the fan experience. Real-time personalization—such as providing tailored clips based on viewer preferences—is becoming mainstream.
– Mobile-First Consumption: With the rise of vertical video and short-form content, more viewers are shifting to mobile platforms. Platforms like TikTok are dictating how sports highlights are consumed, emphasizing short, engaging clips.

What challenges or opportunities do broadcast companies need to know because of these trends?

– Balancing Traditional and Digital Audiences: While younger audiences prefer digital and mobile platforms, older viewers still rely on traditional TV. Broadcasters need to bridge these formats without diluting the experience for either group.
– Monetization of Short-Form Content: With more consumption of highlight reels and short-form content, monetizing these segments will be critical. Subscription models, in-stream ads, and partnerships with digital platforms can unlock value.

What are the top 3 things attendees should hunt down on the show floor to expand what they will learn in your session?

-Generative AI and Automated Content Solutions: Look for companies offering solutions that can generate, edit, and distribute short-form content in real time.
-AR and VR Integration for Broadcasts: Check out how AR/VR can be used to enhance viewer engagement, providing new layers of interaction during live games.

What discussions should they be having with exhibitors?

Monetizing Short-Form Content: Discuss strategies for leveraging AI-generated content and how to integrate advertising, sponsorships, or subscription-based models within short-form media.
AI-Driven Personalization: Ask how exhibitors are using AI to create personalized experiences for fans, from tailored highlight reels to interactive content that evolves based on user preferences.