The ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has been captivating audiences with its exceptional performances, creating an electrifying atmosphere. However, those fans who prefer to enjoy the cash-rich tournament from the comfort of their homes have an added advantage. The landscape of cricket broadcasting has undergone a transformation in the 17th edition of the IPL, introducing innovative features that redefine the way sports are televised. As a result, the viewership for IPL 2024 has reached astonishing numbers, as revealed by the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC). Disney Star, the broadcasting network, has recorded a cumulative reach of 44.8 crore viewers during the first 22 days (26 matches) of the tournament, accumulating a total watch time of 18,800 crore minutes. These figures indicate an 8% increase in cumulative reach compared to the previous season, while the match ratings (TVR) have witnessed an impressive growth of 15%
Star Sports, the official TV broadcaster of IPL 2024, has brought immense joy to fans by introducing a range of innovative technological features for the season. One of the most groundbreaking initiatives is the inclusion of Sign Language Commentary, which caters to the needs of deaf, hard-of-hearing, and visually impaired fans. Through the expertise of specialists, the original commentary is converted into sign language, effectively breaking down the barriers of disability and allowing specially-abled fans to experience the thrill of the game.
Another remarkable tech enhancement is the implementation of AI technology. A viral video clip showcased the capabilities of this feature, as Stuart Broad and Steven Smith were seen analyzing an IPL game in Hindi using their own voices. This AI-driven enhancement enables international commentators to seamlessly speak regional Indian languages, providing a more immersive experience for viewers. Additionally, the introduction of the ‘Shor Meter’ excitement measurement feature allows fans watching from home to gauge the energy of the crowd in real time. By measuring the decibel levels in the stadium, this feature enables viewers to truly feel the pulse of the audience and enhances their overall engagement with the game.
In a bid to cater to the diverse linguistic preferences of fans, Star Sports has expanded its coverage by introducing multilingual commentary for IPL 2024. Initially starting with English and Hindi commentary, the league has now transcended language barriers by offering designated feeds in nine of the most widely spoken languages in the country. This allows fans to enjoy the matches in their preferred language, further enhancing their connection with the game. Alongside this, Star Sports has introduced several other innovative features for IPL 2024, including Teleportation and Mixed Reality Shows, 4K Feed with Atmos Sound, Piero Analysis, Immersive Visual Experiences, Dolby Vision Production, and Interactive Features with Glance and ESPNCricinfo. These additions aim to provide fans with an immersive and technologically advanced viewing experience.
