After many controversies, EPL will change how it uses its video-assistant referee (VAR) systems.
For the 2024-2025 season, it is using a new system called “Dragon” that will use dozens of iPhones.
It will have 28 iPhones in each EPL stadium.
The English Premier League (EPL) is just around the corner and this time, it is going to change its tech language. After many controversies, EPL will change how it uses its video-assistant referee (VAR) systems. For the 2024-2025 season, it is using a new system called “Dragon”. It is designed by Genius Sports and will use dozens of iPhones to assist in making offside calls.
The reason behind this change can be the fact that the present VAR system has been criticised a lot for its inaccuracies and delays. This has even led to a lot of controversies and frustration among players, fans, and officials. With this new change, and the introduction of Dragons, the officials aim to address this issue and hope that this will be a more precise and efficient method for determining offside decisions.
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How will iPhones be used in the Premier League for fouls?
According to a report by Gizmodo, Genius Sports will install 28 iPhones in each EPL stadium. Most of these iPhones will be iPhone 14s. They will be strategically positioned around the stadiums in waterproof cases equipped with cooling fans. The iPhones will capture video from multiple angles, with each mount holding up to four devices.
With this setup, organisers will be able to get real-time tracking of players and the game. It is capable of tracking between 7,000 and 10,000 data points on each player, such as muscle mass, skeletal structure, and gait. The current system can only track 30 to 40 points. Additionally, Dragon can capture up to 200 frames per second, significantly more than the 50 to 60 frames per second achieved by the current tech.
It can even predict potential offsides by automatically increasing the camera frame rate during critical moments. The system will also leverage machine learning, referred to as “object semantic mesh,” to continuously improve its performance.
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Mustafa Khan
Mustafa is new on the block and is a tech geek who is currently working with Digit as a News Writer. He tests the new gadgets that come on board and writes for the news desk. He has found his way with words and you can count on him when in need of tech advice. No judgement. He is based out of Delhi, he’s your person for good photos, good food recommendations, and to know about anything GenZ. View Full Profile
