Hudl expands smart camera solution to outdoor sports

GaryPageau ,
Hudl Focus Outdoor

Sports livestream company Hudl launched Hudl Focus Outdoor, a hands-free smart camera that automatically captures and uploads games and practices to Hudl and sends video to livestreaming platforms. The technology builds upon the impact of Hudl Focus Indoor,  which allows teams to capture HD video from the perfect angle using A.I.-powered player tracking technology. More than 15,000 basketball and volleyball teams have used Focus Indoor cameras to capture 190,000 games, and stream more than 70,000 of those games to fans—all automatically with no cameraperson required.

“We’re confident that player-tracking technology is going to transform the way football and soccer teams use video and analytics to collaborate and compete, while saving them time along the way,” says David Graff, CEO, Hudl. “Meanwhile, parents, fans and recruiters have made it loud and clear over the past year they want live access from a distance—and that will continue, even when the pandemic has passed. Hudl Focus meets those needs, as what I believe is the most flexible smart sports camera on the market, and we’re excited to expand to outdoor sports.”

Hudl Focus Outdoor seamlessly integrates with Hudl, the sports video analysis platform, which is used by more than 33,000 football and 18,000 soccer teams in the United States. Users can have total control of their camera from a range of devices with the tap of a button by using the free-to-download Hudl Focus app.

Features include:

  • Simple Livestreaming: Users can stream directly to YouTube for a free and simple livestreaming solution that doesn’t charge followers to watch or send video to any broadcast software. These flexible livestreaming capabilities provide monetization opportunities via sponsorships for school districts and organizations.
  • Additional Game Context with Scoreboard Overlay: The camera displays the scoreboard within the video frame, unlocking an additional layer of situational awareness for coaches, which can better determine opponent play-calling trends based on score and time remaining.
  • Immediate Post-Game Review: The upload process occurs in real-time, so the video is readily available once coaches wrap up their post-game and locker room meetings.
  • One-time Installation: Permanently installed hardware designed for all types of weather means athletic department staffs are freed from game-day video setup concerns—saving time, eliminating costs and reducing training requirements, while improving the quality of video captured.