Hot topics

Going elsewhere?

27.2 C
Singapore
22.2 C
Malaysia
30.2 C
Thailand
27.2 C
Philippines
20.3 C
Indonesia
14 C
Vietnam
26.5 C
Cambodia
23.7 C
Myanmar

Cybersecurity

Roblox introduces new parental controls to enhance child safety

Roblox introduces new parental controls, allowing parents to block games, restrict friends, and monitor their childโ€™s activity for better safety.

Exabeam introduces Nova, an agentic AI that boosts cybersecurity operations

Exabeam unveils Nova, a proactive AI agent that boosts security team productivity and reduces incident investigation time by over 50%.

Tenable reveals privilege escalation flaw in Google Cloud Run

Tenable uncovers a privilege escalation flaw in Google Cloud Run, exposing risks linked to inherited permissions and service interdependencies.

ESET uncovers RansomHub links to rival gangs and highlights emerging EDR killer threats

ESET uncovers RansomHubโ€™s links to rival gangs and reveals its custom EDR killer, signalling new threats in the ransomware landscape.

China-aligned hacker group FamousSparrow resurfaces in cyberattacks

ESET finds China-linked hacker group FamousSparrow still active with upgraded tools, targeting institutions in the US, Mexico and Honduras.

Marketing

Spotify introduces AI-powered ads and programmatic ad buying

Spotify unveils AI-powered ads and the Spotify Ad Exchange, making it easier for advertisers to reach Gen Z listeners with real-time bidding.

Adobe: Redefining digital marketing in APAC through AI and privacy-first personalisation

Discover how Adobe helps APAC brands tackle data privacy, localise content, and embrace AI-driven marketing in a cookieless future.

Adobe introduces AI agents to Experience Cloud to improve customer experience delivery

Adobe unveils AI-powered features in Experience Cloud to help businesses deliver personalised customer journeys and better digital performance.

Adobe introduces new Firefly updates to streamline brand content production at scale

Adobe expands Firefly with video, 3D and GenStudio integration, helping brands scale on-brand content production with ease.

WeChat mini-game advertising sees 113% increase, creating new opportunities for developers

WeChat mini-game ads grew 113% in 2024, opening major growth chances for developers aiming to scale in Chinaโ€™s fast-moving mobile game market.

Southeast Asia

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK to help Hong Kong brands expand into Southeast Asia

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK, helping Hong Kong SMEs tap into Southeast Asia's booming US$600 billion e-commerce market.

MLBB and OPPO crown regional champions at APAC Smooth Legend Cup

IDONOTSLEEP and Maru Gamerpact Esports take top honours at the MLBB x OPPO Smooth Legend Cup APAC Grand Finals.

LinkedIn: How AI is reshaping hiring and workforce strategies in 2025

Discover how AI is transforming hiring and workforce strategies in 2025, from skills-based recruitment to internal mobility and continuous learning.

Kyberlife raises US$3 million to expand healthcare procurement in Southeast Asia

Singaporeโ€™s healthtech startup Kyberlife secures US$3 million to expand its digital procurement platform, streamlining healthcare supply chains in Southeast Asia.

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres gains NVIDIA AI certification to boost AI capabilities

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres has achieved certification under the NVIDIA DGX-Ready Data Center programme, boosting AI capabilities in Southeast Asia.

Geek

Lego and Pokรฉmon Company announce long-awaited collaboration

Lego has partnered with The Pokรฉmon Company, and official Pokรฉmon Lego sets will be available in stores in 2026.

Crunchyroll announces cinema release dates for Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle

Crunchyroll announces cinema release dates for Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle, starting 14 August 2025 in Singapore and Malaysia.

Aetherdrift brings high-speed action to Magic: The Gathering fans

MTG's Aetherdrift brings high-speed action, new mechanics, and exclusive collectibles in an epic multiverse race starting 7 February.

Crunchyroll and Sony partners unveil anime adaptation of Ghost of Tsushima: Legends

Crunchyroll, Aniplex, and Sony partners reveal Ghost of Tsushima: Legends anime adaptation, set for a 2027 release exclusively on Crunchyroll.

Evangelion store marks two decades with new merchandise and an anniversary fair

Celebrate 20 years of EVANGELION with exclusive merchandise and special gifts at the anniversary fair, only at the EVANGELION STORE.

Hot topics

Going elsewhere?

27.2 C
Singapore
22.2 C
Malaysia
30.2 C
Thailand
27.2 C
Philippines
20.3 C
Indonesia
14 C
Vietnam
26.5 C
Cambodia
23.7 C
Myanmar

Cybersecurity

Roblox introduces new parental controls to enhance child safety

Roblox introduces new parental controls, allowing parents to block games, restrict friends, and monitor their childโ€™s activity for better safety.

Exabeam introduces Nova, an agentic AI that boosts cybersecurity operations

Exabeam unveils Nova, a proactive AI agent that boosts security team productivity and reduces incident investigation time by over 50%.

Tenable reveals privilege escalation flaw in Google Cloud Run

Tenable uncovers a privilege escalation flaw in Google Cloud Run, exposing risks linked to inherited permissions and service interdependencies.

ESET uncovers RansomHub links to rival gangs and highlights emerging EDR killer threats

ESET uncovers RansomHubโ€™s links to rival gangs and reveals its custom EDR killer, signalling new threats in the ransomware landscape.

China-aligned hacker group FamousSparrow resurfaces in cyberattacks

ESET finds China-linked hacker group FamousSparrow still active with upgraded tools, targeting institutions in the US, Mexico and Honduras.

Marketing

Spotify introduces AI-powered ads and programmatic ad buying

Spotify unveils AI-powered ads and the Spotify Ad Exchange, making it easier for advertisers to reach Gen Z listeners with real-time bidding.

Adobe: Redefining digital marketing in APAC through AI and privacy-first personalisation

Discover how Adobe helps APAC brands tackle data privacy, localise content, and embrace AI-driven marketing in a cookieless future.

Adobe introduces AI agents to Experience Cloud to improve customer experience delivery

Adobe unveils AI-powered features in Experience Cloud to help businesses deliver personalised customer journeys and better digital performance.

Adobe introduces new Firefly updates to streamline brand content production at scale

Adobe expands Firefly with video, 3D and GenStudio integration, helping brands scale on-brand content production with ease.

WeChat mini-game advertising sees 113% increase, creating new opportunities for developers

WeChat mini-game ads grew 113% in 2024, opening major growth chances for developers aiming to scale in Chinaโ€™s fast-moving mobile game market.

Southeast Asia

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK to help Hong Kong brands expand into Southeast Asia

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK, helping Hong Kong SMEs tap into Southeast Asia's booming US$600 billion e-commerce market.

MLBB and OPPO crown regional champions at APAC Smooth Legend Cup

IDONOTSLEEP and Maru Gamerpact Esports take top honours at the MLBB x OPPO Smooth Legend Cup APAC Grand Finals.

LinkedIn: How AI is reshaping hiring and workforce strategies in 2025

Discover how AI is transforming hiring and workforce strategies in 2025, from skills-based recruitment to internal mobility and continuous learning.

Kyberlife raises US$3 million to expand healthcare procurement in Southeast Asia

Singaporeโ€™s healthtech startup Kyberlife secures US$3 million to expand its digital procurement platform, streamlining healthcare supply chains in Southeast Asia.

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres gains NVIDIA AI certification to boost AI capabilities

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres has achieved certification under the NVIDIA DGX-Ready Data Center programme, boosting AI capabilities in Southeast Asia.

Geek

Lego and Pokรฉmon Company announce long-awaited collaboration

Lego has partnered with The Pokรฉmon Company, and official Pokรฉmon Lego sets will be available in stores in 2026.

Crunchyroll announces cinema release dates for Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle

Crunchyroll announces cinema release dates for Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle, starting 14 August 2025 in Singapore and Malaysia.

Aetherdrift brings high-speed action to Magic: The Gathering fans

MTG's Aetherdrift brings high-speed action, new mechanics, and exclusive collectibles in an epic multiverse race starting 7 February.

Crunchyroll and Sony partners unveil anime adaptation of Ghost of Tsushima: Legends

Crunchyroll, Aniplex, and Sony partners reveal Ghost of Tsushima: Legends anime adaptation, set for a 2027 release exclusively on Crunchyroll.

Evangelion store marks two decades with new merchandise and an anniversary fair

Celebrate 20 years of EVANGELION with exclusive merchandise and special gifts at the anniversary fair, only at the EVANGELION STORE.
Friday, 4 April 2025
27.2 C
Singapore
30.2 C
Thailand
20.3 C
Indonesia
27.2 C
Philippines

1 Play Sports: Navigating the challenges of sports tech innovation

Explore how 1 Play Sports is overcoming challenges in sports tech, enhancing broadcasting with innovative technology and expanding community engagement.

1 Play Sports started as a modest startup with a mission to democratise the streaming of smaller, less popular sports events and activities that are not typically covered by mainstream sports media, such as community and school-level sports. Founded with the vision of making sports accessible to every sports fan, the company sought to break down barriers in sports viewership. This focus on inclusivity was a response to the traditional broadcasting models that primarily catered to premier sporting events. By addressing this gap, 1 Play Sports provided a platform for lesser-known sports and cultivated a more inclusive sports culture.

As digital technologies began to reshape various industries, 1 Play Sports seized the opportunity to leverage these advancements to enhance its services. The shift toward digital was strategic, aiming to harness the power of streaming to reach a global audience. Fuelled by the rising demand for accessible sports content and the proliferation of mobile technology and broadband internet, the company embraced digital transformation. This transition allowed them to offer high-quality, live-streaming services that were both scalable and cost-effective, setting a new standard in sports broadcasting.

From humble beginnings to technological advancements

The journey of 1 Play Sports began with the challenge of broadcasting sports events on a shoestring budget. Initially, the company relied on third-party platforms to deliver content, which soon revealed significant limitations regarding data ownership and revenue generation. This dependency on external platforms highlighted a critical need for content management and monetisation autonomy, leading to a pivotal shift in the companyโ€™s strategy.

To overcome these challenges, 1 Play Sports developed an innovative Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that allowed sports organisations to launch their branded over-the-top (OTT) services. This white-labelled solution required no coding, making it accessible for sports organisations of all sizes to adopt and implement. The introduction of this platform marked a significant technological advancement, providing complete control over broadcasts and direct engagement with audiences, which opened new avenues for revenue through subscriptions, advertising, and sponsorship.

1 Play Sports Navigating the challenges of sports tech innovation - 1
Image credit: 1 Play Sports

Today, this platform has grown exponentially, with over 40 partners utilising the service. This rapid adoption proves its effectiveness and the industryโ€™s demand for such innovative solutions. The success of its SaaS platform not only reinforced 1 Play Sportsโ€™ market position but also demonstrated its pivotal role in driving broader digital transformation trends within the sports industry. This strategic pivot has enabled the company to scale its operations and provided a sustainable business model that continues influencing the sports broadcasting landscape.

Overcoming challenges and celebrating milestones

1 Play Sports Navigating the challenges of sports tech innovation - 3

Despite these technological advancements, 1 Play Sports encountered numerous challenges, including the need to navigate the unpredictable terrains of the sports industry. This was particularly true during the COVID-19 pandemic when the entire sports calendar came to an abrupt halt. This crisis tested the companyโ€™s resilience and adaptability, pushing it to innovate and rethink its strategic approach. The pandemic also underscored the importance of flexibility and the need to maintain a strong financial foundation, prompting a shift towards more sustainable growth and careful financial planning.

Amid these challenges, the company has achieved significant milestones, including securing the broadcasting rights to the National School Games. This project was not only commercially promising but also profoundly aligned with the companyโ€™s mission to support community sports. Broadcasting these games allowed 1 Play Sports to further its commitment to community service, providing exposure for young athletes and delivering content with significant social value.

The broadcast of the National School Games also highlighted the companyโ€™s growing influence and ability to secure high-profile partnerships. This achievement was a testament to its operational capabilities and strategic vision, helping to solidify its reputation as a leader in the sports tech industry. It also set the stage for future opportunities, opening doors to other high-stakes broadcasting projects and reinforcing its market position. 

In 2021, the company also received US$2.5 million in funding from investment firms ThinKuvate and H Capital Investment and other high-profile angel investors. This investment further enhanced the platformโ€™s capabilities and expanded into profitable markets like India and the US. The evolution from a simple streaming service to a leader in sports technology illustrates the companyโ€™s trajectory towards innovation and excellence. 

Today, 1 Play Sports stands as a pioneering force, transforming how grassroots and community sports events are broadcasted worldwide. Its approach has revolutionised the viewerโ€™s experience by providing more accessibility and richer content. It has also influenced how sports are perceived and consumed globally, fostering a stronger connection between athletes and their communities.

Technological impacts and future directions

Looking to the future, 1 Play Sports is committed to incorporating advanced technologies to enhance the viewing experience and engage sports enthusiasts in unprecedented ways. The company plans to integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning to offer more personalised and interactive viewer experiences, such as gamification and automation, providing a richer and more engaging viewing experience.

Additionally, the adoption of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies is set to transform how fans interact with sports content, offering immersive experiences that bring viewers closer to the action. These innovations aim to enhance the fan experience and open new monetisation avenues through interactive advertising and premium content offerings.

Blockchain technology is another area where 1 Play Sports is set to make significant inroads. By leveraging blockchain, the company aims to solve the persistent challenges of monetisation in the broadcasting of community and grassroots sports. This technology will enable more transparent and efficient transactions, allowing creators and rights holders to reap the benefits of their content directly. Integrating these technologies signifies 1 Play Sportsโ€™ commitment to staying at the forefront of the sports tech industry, continuously exploring new ways to revolutionise sports broadcasting and fan engagement.

Envisioning a connected and empowered community

As 1 Play Sports looks ahead, the company is focused on expanding its technological capabilities beyond traditional sports broadcasting. The introduction of the Playmersiv platform is a significant step towards building a more connected and engaged community. This platform aims to integrate various interactive features, such as chat rooms, coaching solutions, and fantasy leagues within the metaverse, creating a more dynamic and participatory environment for fans.

The companyโ€™s vision extends to fostering community engagement across various sectors, including music and entertainment. It leverages its technological expertise to empower communities and enhance engagement across different platforms. These initiatives reflect 1 Play Sportsโ€™ broader mission to innovate within the sports industry and create meaningful connections and experiences that bring people together.

1 Play Sports Navigating the challenges of sports tech innovation - 2
Mohit Lalvani, Founder and CEO, 1 Play Sports | Image credit: 1 Play Sports

Under the leadership of Mohit Lalvani, 1 Play Sports continues to innovate and push the boundaries of whatโ€™s possible in sports tech. The companyโ€™s commitment to continuous improvement and community service drives its efforts to explore new technologies and business models. This forward-thinking approach ensures that 1 Play Sports remains a key player in the sports tech landscape, ready to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving market.

Hot this week

Tenable reveals privilege escalation flaw in Google Cloud Run

Tenable uncovers a privilege escalation flaw in Google Cloud Run, exposing risks linked to inherited permissions and service interdependencies.

OpenAI secures US$40 billion in funding at US$300 billion valuation

OpenAI secures US$40B, reaching a US$300B valuation, to advance AI research and expand Stargate.

Anthropic introduces Claude for Education, a new AI chatbot plan for universities

Anthropic launches Claude for Education, an AI chatbot plan for universities that offers advanced learning tools and administration support.

Samsungโ€™s latest vacuum alerts you to calls and texts while you clean

Samsungโ€™s new Bespoke AI Jet Ultra vacuum can alert you to calls and texts while cleaning as the brand expands smart home screens across appliances.

Informatica introduces new AI features to boost cloud data integration and management

Informatica adds AI tools to simplify data integration and improve enterprise access to AI-ready data across its cloud platform.

Spotify introduces AI-powered ads and programmatic ad buying

Spotify unveils AI-powered ads and the Spotify Ad Exchange, making it easier for advertisers to reach Gen Z listeners with real-time bidding.

YouTube expands shopping affiliate programme in Singapore through Shopee partnership

YouTube teams up with Shopee to launch its Shopping affiliate programme in Singapore, giving creators new ways to monetise their content.

Misconceptions about STEM careers continue to deter young women in Singapore

New research shows stereotypes and lack of support are deterring young women from STEM careers, posing a risk to Singaporeโ€™s innovation goals.

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK to help Hong Kong brands expand into Southeast Asia

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK, helping Hong Kong SMEs tap into Southeast Asia's booming US$600 billion e-commerce market.

Related Articles