Olympic Broadcasting Services

News Summary:

Artificial intelligence is taking on a larger behind-the-scenes role at the 2026 Winter Olympics, reshaping logistics, broadcasting, and judging while keeping athletes central to competition. Organizers are using AI to manage scheduling and weather disruptions across thousands of events, athletes, and staff, according to Axios on February 18. Previously, on February 17, Olympic Broadcasting Services head Yiannis Exarchos stated that the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics would offer an immersive experience through extensive AI use and a "generous sprinkling of global stars," building on the innovative First-Person View (FPV) drones employed at the Milano Games. This followed a February 16 report by News.Az, citing OBS, which detailed plans for AI to play a significant role in the LA Games, potentially allowing real-time viewer interaction, such as instant replays, accessing performance data, or comparing current performances with past Olympic records, also referencing the FPV drone innovations at the Milano-Cortina Winter Games. Earlier, on February 13, OBS increased its microphone count to approximately 1,800 units for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, an addition of 200 microphones compared to Beijing 2022, and integrated AI tools into its audio production workflow to manage operations across 15 geographically dispersed venues. On February 12, Olympic Broadcasting Services announced an expansion of drones and artificial intelligence in broadcast coverage for the 2026 Winter Olympics to enhance the viewing experience, with FPV cameras tracking athletes closely in events like speed skating.