This year, IPL games will be broadcast by Jio-led Sports18 in 4K video resolution to improve the viewing experience for its viewers.
High-Definition (HD) video with a 4K resolution is thought to have four times the resolution of a 1080p HD video. Up until 2022, Hotstar, the IPL’s official digital partner, broadcast matches via the HD feed. It is anticipated that shortly an official announcement will be made in this regard.
As per the E4M reports, sources confirmed, Jio claimed to be broadcasting FIFA matches in 4K, but it wasn’t end-to-end.
“FIFA was a learning experience for Jio. In the last two months they have relentlessly worked on upgrading the technical front, and are expected to deliver a high-quality experience during IPL,” said a senior media planner.
Technical glitches during FIFA
The broadcaster even faced criticism during FIFA because of technical glitches during the telecast of two games. However, the finals, which drew a sizable audience, brought the situation under control.
Industry insiders estimate that Sports18 spent several hundred crores developing its technology staff for the IPL. “It has one of the biggest technical teams in India right now,” said an industry veteran.
Jio to stream IPL 2023 in 16 to 17 languages
Additionally, the platform is looking at the possibility of providing the feed in 16 to 17 languages, including Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and Odia.
“In their pitch, they have been emphasizing the need to make IPL local. It should be available to everyone on their mobile headset in their chosen language.”
Likely to add “appointment viewing”
The online stream is also likely to include “appointment viewing,” which allows viewers to check the scoreboard and other graphics whenever they want to rather than waiting for the broadcaster to do it.
“During a cricket match, so far, we could see the scorecards, statistics, and graphics only when the broadcaster chose to flash them on the screen.
However, going forward on Sports18, a viewer can simply click an icon and see the scoreboard at any point,” shared a source.
IPL 2023 live streaming will be free on the Jio app
Early this month, Sports18 confirmed its decision to stream IPL free on the Jio app, which is expected to be a game-changer for IPL this season. The broadcaster stated that it planned to reach more than 500 million viewers.
The app is expected to sell its content in 10-second intervals as well as on the basis of impressions as part of its plan to compete directly with TV.
