ITV

Category: Technology

  • AbhiBus launches Edge app for bus operators at Prawaas 4.0

    AbhiBus launches Edge app for bus operators at Prawaas 4.0

    Mumbai: AbhiBus, an Indian bus booking platform, announced the launch of its new Edge app aimed at revolutionising how bus operators manage their campaigns, making operations more accessible, quicker, and smarter.

    Unveiled at the prestigious Prawaas 4.0, the Edge app builds on the success of the Edge web platform. It harnesses the power of AI, offering intelligent campaign recommendations that are tailored to the specific needs of operators. With instant notifications and alerts, operators can stay updated on critical developments, allowing them to make informed decisions and respond quickly to any opportunities or challenges that arise. It also integrates the AbhiBus ads solutions, enabling operators to reach new customers across various channels and optimise their campaigns to drive sales with greater ease. Additionally, the Crew Performance Module provides detailed insights into operational efficiency, empowering users to manage their teams effectively and ensure smooth operations.

    Speaking on the launch, AbhiBus COO Rohit Sharma said, “The Edge App represents a significant step forward in our mission to empower bus operators with technology that simplifies their business operations. By making advanced campaign management tools available on mobile, we want to enable  our partners to run their operations more efficiently, make informed decisions and drive growth.”

    With the edge app, operators can choose from a variety of pre-designed templates and go live with just one click, significantly reducing the time needed to set up campaigns. It offers instant access to the latest performance data, with real-time analytics that help boost campaigns and sales. It also comes with seamless auto-renewal and campaign extension features that ensure the smooth running of sales without interruption. The app further enhances campaign reach by offering flexible filters that enable operators to target specific routes, allowing them to strategically focus on the routes most critical to their business.

  • AI’s future in content discovery promises more intuitive and immersive entertainment: MovieMe’s Bhavesh Joshi

    AI’s future in content discovery promises more intuitive and immersive entertainment: MovieMe’s Bhavesh Joshi

    Mumbai: Navigating the vast sea of entertainment options can be overwhelming, with countless choices often making it hard to find content that truly resonates. MovieMe addresses this challenge with a groundbreaking approach to content discovery.

    Founded by Bhavesh Joshi, a film enthusiast with a background from the UK’s National Film and Television School, MovieMe harnesses machine learning to deliver hyper-personalised recommendations, making it easier for users to find content that truly resonates with their unique tastes. MovieMe is reshaping how we interact with cinema and television by offering features like ‘Scenes’ and ‘real-money game’.

    Indiantelevision.com’s Arth Chakraborty caught up with MovieMe founder and CEO Bhavesh Joshi to delve deeper into their offerings, future trends and more.

    Edited Excerpts:

    On the inspiration behind MovieMe, and the ways in which it is disrupting the traditional entertainment landscape

    The inspiration for MovieMe stemmed from my deep love for cinema and the realisation that, despite the abundance of content available today, many viewers still struggle to find films and shows that truly resonate with them. I wanted to bridge this gap by creating a platform that does not just recommend what’s popular, but what aligns with each user’s unique tastes and preferences. MovieMe is disrupting the traditional entertainment landscape by leveraging machine learning to offer hyper-personalised recommendations. We are moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach, giving users a curated experience that feels tailor-made just for them, which I believe is the future of content consumption. We are also extremely focused on enhancing the cinematic experience for audiences, giving them new tools and ways in which to interact with their favourite content, and celebrate their love for cinema.

    On MovieMe’s AI-driven recommendation system working to personalise user experiences

    MovieMe’s AI and ML-driven recommendation system is built on sophisticated algorithms that analyse a wide array of data—from a user’s viewing history and interactions on the platform to broader trends in content consumption, and over a thousand data points of movies (story arc, character development, plot tropes, etc.). By continuously learning from user behaviour, our system evolves to provide more accurate and relevant suggestions over time. It’s not just about recommending what’s trending; it’s about understanding the nuances of each user’s preferences and providing them with options they might not have discovered on their own.

    On ways in which MovieMe has transformed content discovery for its users

    One of the most gratifying aspects of MovieMe is hearing from users who have discovered hidden gems they would have otherwise missed. For instance, we’ve had users who primarily watched mainstream Hollywood films but, through our recommendations, found themselves exploring indie and international cinema that they ended up loving. Another example is our ‘Scenes’ feature, where users can discover movies based on short scenes or clips they enjoy, which has opened up a new dimension of content discovery, making the experience both personal and emotionally engaging.

    On the role that machine learning plays in understanding user preferences and predicting trends on MovieMe

    Machine learning is at the core of MovieMe’s ability to understand user preferences and predict trends. By processing vast amounts of data—from individual user habits to broader viewing patterns—we can anticipate what content will resonate with different audience segments. This allows us to not only recommend existing content but also provide insights into emerging trends that could shape future viewing habits. Our machine-learning models constantly evolve, ensuring that MovieMe remains ahead of the curve in predicting what our users want to watch next.

    On MovieMe ensuring data security while providing personalised recommendations

    Data security is a top priority for MovieMe. We employ robust encryption protocols and data anonymisation techniques to ensure that user information is protected at all times. Additionally, we are transparent with our users about how their data is used to enhance their experience. We believe that maintaining user trust is crucial, which is why we have implemented strict policies to safeguard privacy while still delivering the personalised recommendations that our users value.

    On MovieMe adapting to the cultural trends that are currently shaping the entertainment industry

    MovieMe is deeply attuned to the cultural trends shaping the entertainment industry, from the rise of diverse storytelling to the growing demand for localised content. We have incorporated these trends into our recommendation algorithms, ensuring that users are introduced to a wide range of voices and perspectives. Additionally, our platform is constantly updated to reflect the latest in entertainment, whether that’s emerging genres, the resurgence of certain formats, or shifts in how content is consumed.

    On MovieMe’s unique features like ‘Scenes’ and ‘real-money game’ and its impact on user engagement

    Our ‘Scenes’ feature allows users to explore movies based on short scenes or clips of content that resonate with them—whether it’s a thrilling chase sequence or a heartfelt conversation. The idea is to offer a new form of content discovery and allow users to discover content that truly strikes a chord with them. Of course, it also functions as an endless repository of bite-sized content, great for watching stuff in those little in-between moments when you don’t have time to watch full episodes or movies. This feature has significantly enhanced user engagement by offering a new way to connect with content on a deeper level.

    The ‘real-money game’ – or forecast game, as we call it – is another innovative addition where users can predict box office earnings and win cash prizes. This gamified experience adds a layer of excitement and drives engagement by integrating users into the entertainment ecosystem in a more interactive way. It also helps us generate valuable data points about audience expectations around different movie titles and their genres, cast members, production teams, etc. These data can then help industry professionals make informed decisions about various components of their future releases, including production, marketing, and distribution.

    On envisioning the future of AI in content discovery and entertainment, and MovieMe’s future plans for innovation in this space

    The future of AI in content discovery is incredibly promising, with the potential to make entertainment experiences even more intuitive and immersive. At MovieMe, we’re exploring new ways to leverage AI to enhance personalisation, including more advanced predictive analytics and real-time recommendations based on mood or social context. We are also looking at how AI can be used to create more interactive and dynamic content experiences. Our goal is to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in content discovery, making MovieMe not just a recommendation engine, but a comprehensive entertainment companion that evolves with its users.

  • Enhancing customer experience through AI-driven chatbots & virtual assistants

    Enhancing customer experience through AI-driven chatbots & virtual assistants

    Several businesses are adopting AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants as there are proven benefits of their use in customer service. These services function 24×7 and are highly cost-effective. Since they are AI-driven, they offer personalisation options as well and can thus prove to be more effective and engaging. There are reports of certain customers who find AI chatbots highly frustrating to use for complex problems and prefer human customer service. Yet, for a majority of businesses, the plethora of benefits outweigh the few negatives. The various benefits are as follows:

    1. Scalable and cost-effective – AI chatbots can handle multiple queries simultaneously, reducing wait time and managing spikes in customer demand. This efficiency and scalability reduce customer frustration while dealing with certain predefined, routine tasks.    

    2.  Enhanced customer service and experience – unlike legacy chatbot, AI assistants and chatbots provide customised support in real-time 24×7. This prompt query resolution can lead to higher customer satisfaction.

    3.  Reduction in human error and enhanced accuracy – chatbots integrated with CRMs and knowledge bases, providing accurate information about their customers and business products and services. Making them an excellent choice for routine queries and FAQs.   

    4. Multilingual support – AI chatbots and assistants are trained on a vast dataset of multiple languages. NLP (natural language processing) algorithms can convert text from one language to another enabling them to assist a broad base of customers.

     5.  Flexibility – These bots can be integrated into multiple platforms such as websites, apps, social media enabling them to assist customers any and everywhere.

    As mentioned above, most businesses deploy AI chatbots for personalization. However, at times they fail to deliver the level of personalization they were deployed for. This can lead to customer frustration and customer loss. Therefore, businesses maintain a good balance between AI chatbots for routine assistance and human customer service for more complex tasks. Many businesses integrate these chatbots with CRMs (customer relationship management), which serve as the centralised repository for customer engagement. This integration raises issues regarding data privacy and responsible use of customer information. Thus, AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants emphasise the need for not just tech-driven solutions for businesses but also its collaboration with human support.

    The article has been authored by Tagglabs founder Hariom Seth.

  • How tech shapes the journey from sorting to securing top talent

    How tech shapes the journey from sorting to securing top talent

    In today’s hyper-competitive job market, identifying the right job is becoming increasingly challenging. As the competition intensifies, HR professionals are faced with the daunting task of selecting the ideal candidate from a vast pool of talented individuals. With increasing pressure and traditional hiring methods often falling short, there’s a strong need for better and more efficient solutions. Fortunately, technology is here to help by making the hiring process smoother, more accurate and efficient, from sorting resumes to finding the ideal candidate.

    With these new advancements, HR professionals can make what used to feel like an overwhelming task much easier and more effective. Sorting through endless resumes and dealing with unqualified candidates can be tough. Traditional recruitment methods often involve slow, error-prone manual processes. And with fewer standout candidates available, it’s crucial to find a better approach to hiring. There is no doubt in accepting that the recruitment process is complex and needs a critical eye to evaluate the applications.

    Technology has undoubtedly transformed the way we hire, offering tools that save time and improve accuracy. For instance, according to the studies by Jobscan and Capterra, 98 per cent of Fortune 500 companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) with advanced resume parsing capabilities that leverage AI to speed up the hiring process by reducing bias, promoting transparency, and saving valuable time. These systems scan resumes for relevant keywords and qualifications, allowing us to quickly filter in more suitable candidates from the pool. This saves us countless hours that would otherwise be spent manually reviewing each application.

    Analytics have also become indispensable in modern recruitment. Platforms like Bersin by Deloitte’s research shows that companies using analytics tools are 51 per cent more likely to achieve above-average returns on their hiring investments. These tools help us track the performance of job postings, measure the efficiency of our hiring strategies, and make data-driven decisions that continuously refine our process.

    Expanding our candidate pool has become much easier thanks to technology. By utilising digital tools that distribute job postings across various platforms, we’ve noticed a substantial increase in the diversity of applicants. This broader reach allows us to attract candidates who might not have been found through traditional methods, leading to a more inclusive and well-rounded hiring process.

    However, while technology has brought many benefits, it’s not without its limitations. One major issue is the potential for algorithms and data-driven tools to overlook candidates who don’t fit neatly into predefined categories. Research from Jobscan shows that 75 per cent of resumes are never seen by human eyes due to ATS filters, meaning we might miss out on talented individuals with unconventional backgrounds. Additionally, there’s a risk of depersonalising the recruitment process, which can alienate candidates—especially when studies (by CareerBuilder) indicate that 72 per cent of job seekers prefer a more personalised experience during the hiring process.

    As HR professionals, we must strike a balance. While technology provides us with powerful tools to make hiring faster and more accurate, we can’t lose sight of the importance of the human touch. True success in recruitment comes from combining the strengths of both technology and human insight. While data-driven tools can identify strong candidates, it’s our human judgement that adds empathy and understanding to the process.

    By thoughtfully blending technology with human elements, we can create a recruitment process that not only identifies the best talent but also offers a positive experience for candidates. This approach ensures that our hiring process reflects the values and culture of our organisation, making it more likely that new hires will be a good fit. Ultimately, the key is to use technology as a support, not a replacement, for the human connections that make our teams thrive.

    The article has been authored by BluWheelz CHRO Pranay Prakash.
     

  • Planetcast Media Services to showcase NexC at IBC2024

    Planetcast Media Services to showcase NexC at IBC2024

    Mumbai: Planetcast Media Services, the global broadcast technology and media services provider, will be demonstrating its new end-to-end, single-window media management and delivery offering at IBC2024 (RAI Amsterdam, 13-16 September, Booth 5.H59). The event will witness the public EMEA debut of Planetcast’s cloud-first NexC architecture. NexC empowers media companies to overcome the complexity challenge of today’s distribution landscape, enabling frictionless movement of content assets across each stage of post-production, content management, distribution, and monetisation.

    “We are showcasing NexC’s capability to solve the complexity challenge faced by media companies today as they deal with even more formats, markets, devices, and distribution points than ever,” said Planetcast Media Services CEO Sanjay Duda. “Media organisations find it increasingly cumbersome and costly to navigate the various stages of post-production, content delivery and monetisation. Our in-house development team of over 250 professionals are meticulously building and upgrading NexC to offer a seamless integration of media asset management, cloud playout, over-the-top (OTT), and IP distribution. In addition to developing the NEXC product roadmap, the team also provides bespoke solutions tailored to specific customer needs, significantly reducing time and cost compared to outsourcing.”

    NexC: A game-changer for the media industry

    As a comprehensive, cloud-based service suite, NexC offers a unique platform as a service (PaaS) proposition. It integrates content supply chain management with upstream services like post-production and content prep as well as downstream services like cloud playout, digital delivery, FAST and OTT into a single system, streamlining operations and enabling clients to meet the complexity challenge of today’s media industry.

    “NexC pairs flexible workflows with product-level customization, providing the best of both worlds,” Duda explained. “Its ability to scale and deploy solutions at significantly lower cost is highly popular among CTOs & CFOs with tight budgets.”

    By integrating content supply chain management, content preparation, metadata enrichment, tagging, subtitling, dubbing, editing, playout, OTT platforms, and FAST channels into a single, cohesive system, NexC stands out as a comprehensive solution for media companies. The platform’s architecture is built on several core components, each accessible through Planetcast’s unified customer user interface (UI) and dashboard:

    . Contido – content supply chain orchestration and media asset management.

    . Content preparation and localisation services – a full suite of core technical post-production services from quality control, technical and compliance checks to subtitling, dubbing, editing, and re-scoring.

    .  RECASTER – a dynamic and robust IP transport solution, which delivers a secure internet stream from anywhere to anywhere, be it a linear channel or a live sports stream.

    .  Scheduling, playout and distribution through Cloud BATS scheduler, Cloud.X playout and RECASTER digital delivery platforms.

    .  MediaHQ – a white-labelled OTT solution for non-linear content distribution that has delivered complex, multi-award-winning online streaming solutions, from ingest to delivery, for major brands and live events worldwide, including the Olympics, FIFA World Cup, and Formula 1 for customers such as Foxtel Australia and Media Prima Malaysia.

    .  FAST channel services – provided by Planetcast across the US, Europe, Latin America, and Asia, in tandem with established ad-tech partners in USA, Europe and Asia.

    In addition to the core components of NexC, Planetcast’s team will also talk about the company’s other services, including:

    .  Post-production – a software and cloud-curated ecosystem of services with a high degree of process automation, plus AI-enabled capabilities to provide best-of-class services at impressive turnaround times and competitive rates.

    .  Playout disaster recovery – cloud-based DR solution that provides incredibly cost-effective protection against broadcast service disruption.

    Demonstrating innovation and strategic investments

    “Our acquisition of Switch Media earlier this year highlights our drive to expand our solutions portfolio to provide customers with proven world-class OTT capabilities,” noted Duda. “As audiences become more reachable, we recognise that there is a growing need to leverage technology that will empower media companies to open new markets and broaden their audience base. Switch Media’s modular and flexible solutions and versatile workflow engine, Planetcast ensures that its customers can power exceptional online content for viewers and drive OTT monetisation.”

    Planetcast’s in-house development of intellectual property provides a significant competitive advantage for its customers. This agility allows for rapid deployment of new solutions, enabling quick response to market demands and client needs.

    “The seamless integration of individual solutions into our NexC unified platform simplifies user workflows and enhances content management efficiency,” Duda noted. “Our focus on innovation and strategic investments, particularly in multi-cloud-based solutions, is crucial as the industry moves towards more personalized and integrated viewing experiences, enabled by advanced analytics and AI-driven technologies.”

  • MAPL to revolutionise PSPCL’s billing system

    MAPL to revolutionise PSPCL’s billing system

    Mumbai: Punjab State Power Corp Ltd (PSPCL) has selected Millennium Automation Systems Ltd, an IT and telecom system integrator, to lead the upgrade of its billing system using a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model. This collaboration is pivotal in optimising operational efficiency and enhancing customer service within Punjab’s power distribution sector.

    MAPL in consortium with Infinite Computer Solutions India Ltd will upgrade PSPCL’s billing system using modern cloud technology. This project aims to make operations smoother and ensure accurate, timely service for over one crore consumers across Punjab, with potential for future expansion. Having successfully handled many large IT projects across India, this billing system project highlights MAPL’s key role in India’s digital advancement.

    Commenting on the same belief, MAPL CEO Varinder Singh Jawanda stated, “We’re thrilled to start this project with Infinite Solutions to help advance digital technology in the country and set new standards. Our new billing system will make a big difference for PSPCL and its customers. Working with PSPCL shows our dedication to excellence and innovation in IT.”

    The new billing system will speed up power connections, make billing more accurate, and improve customer service. It will also make services run more smoothly and set a new standard for digitalisation in the power industry, boosting satisfaction and reliability for one crore consumers in Punjab. The project involves providing and setting up the billing system, cloud services, IT infrastructure, data security, and network solutions.

    This project will involve a detailed setup phase, followed by a thorough five-year period for operations and maintenance, with options to extend if needed. The contract also includes strict performance requirements to make sure that deadlines and quality standards are met.

    “Our work with PSPCL marks a major advance in digital technology for power distribution. We have a detailed plan for implementation and maintenance to ensure smooth service and efficient operations. Additionally, our new project in railway signalling shows our growth in this field, supporting our goal to advance technology across India,” Singh added.

    This project aims to set a new standard for digital changes in the power distribution industry, improving efficiency and service for customers. MAPL’s collaboration with Infinite, a well-known IT company, strengthens the chances of the project’s success. Besides this important project, MAPL is preparing for a big new venture in railway signalling, showing its plans to grow in the signalling and telecom fields. These efforts highlight MAPL’s dedication to advancing technology and improving infrastructure in different areas across India.

  • Radio City and WOKA partner to transform kids’ digital experience

    Radio City and WOKA partner to transform kids’ digital experience

    Mumbai: Radio City, India’s radio network known for its innovative content and extensive reach, has announced a strategic collaboration with WOKA, an app designed specifically for children aged two to twelve. This partnership marks a significant milestone in Radio City’s ongoing commitment to expanding its audience base and delivering safe, engaging, and trustworthy content to young listeners.

    WOKA stands out for its strong emphasis on safety and trust, making it the go-to platform for parents seeking reliable, age-appropriate content for their children. With a focus on creating a secure environment, WOKA offers a unique blend of entertainment and educational materials, ensuring children enjoy a fun and enriching experience, while parents gain peace of mind.

    Through this collaboration, Radio City will leverage its extensive media expertise to cater to the younger demographic, providing a robust platform for marketers to connect with this critical audience segment. The partnership is set to introduce a new era of content consumption for children, with WOKA’s innovative approach poised to revolutionise the industry.

    Radio City CEO Ashit Kukian expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration and said, “We are excited to partner with WOKA, an app that aligns with our values of providing high-quality, trustworthy content. By combining our marketing expertise with WOKA’s innovative platform, we aim to create a fun and safe digital space for kids. This joining of hands allows us to reach a new generation of listeners, and we are confident that it will open up new avenues for marketers looking to engage with younger audiences. We look forward to making a positive impact together and reaching more families across India.”

    WOKA founder & chairperson Kiran Agarwal added, “The mission of WOKA is to make the world a better place and what better way to do it than by creating a safe and secure environment for our children and grandchildren. The WOKA App has been created with this in mind where the focus is on “Saaf, Safe Manoranjan” with underlining morals and values for our children. A safe space for our kids.

    Our partnership with Radio City is a significant step forward in our mission to revolutionize the way children consume content. By combining WOKA’s unique and innovative platform with Radio City’s extensive reach and content expertise, we are poised to create a truly unique and impactful experience for young users and their families. In WOKA, as we like to say, ‘One World, One Family.”

    The collaboration between Radio City and WOKA underscores a shared vision of creating a safe, engaging, and innovative content ecosystem for children. As the partnership progresses, both companies are committed to continuously exploring new ways to enhance the content experience and meet the evolving needs of young audiences and their families.

  • Yuma Energy crosses one million monthly swaps

    Yuma Energy crosses one million monthly swaps

    Mumbai: Yuma Energy, a technology-powered battery-as-a-service (BaaS) player, announced that it has surpassed one million monthly battery swaps within just 18 months of starting operations. Even as it celebrated this milestone, Yuma Energy also launched its BaaS service in Hyderabad, Telangana, extending its overall presence to 10 key cities. The company’s accelerated growth attests to Yuma Energy’s success at filling a critical market gap with its deep tech-driven operations and benchmark-setting service standards.

    With a focus on intelligent and data-driven expansion to create a highly accessible network of swapping stations, Yuma Energy has doubled its urban footprint this year. It is now present in six metros – Bengaluru, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Delhi, Gurugram and Hyderabad – and four non-metros – Indore, Kochi, Tirunelveli and Pondicherry. Yuma Energy’s 175-plus battery swapping stations conduct over one million monthly swaps for 100,000 plus two-wheeler EV riders.

    “Yuma Energy’s speedy ascent to one million monthly swaps shows the widespread acceptance and customer goodwill it has garnered over its 18-month journey. Powered by cutting-edge technologies and strong customer partnerships, Yuma Energy will continue to reliably solve charging infrastructure gaps and range anxiety at scale, thereby driving speedier EV adoption and supporting a sustainable energy transition for India,” said Yuma Energy general manager and managing director Muthu Subramanian.

    Speaking about the city launches, he added, “We are delighted to start Yuma Energy’s BaaS service in Hyderabad and will continue to add capacity with a goal to operationalise 300 stations country-wide by the end of this year.”

    Yuma Energy’s focus on operational excellence stems from its analytics and technology expertise. The company’s integrated systems and proprietary data models have helped create a customer-centric battery swapping network that unlocks strong unit economics and ensures 99% station uptime (i.e., battery availability) and sub-1 minute average battery swap times.

    In its mission to create a reliable, convenient and efficient BaaS network, Yuma Energy is also establishing strategic partnerships with cities, public agencies and private players. The current partners include the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Indian Railways, Adani Electricity, BSES Rajdhani Power Ltd, BSES Yamuna Power Ltd, Delhi Metro Rail Corp, and Bangalore Metro Rail Corp Ltd.

    Going forward, Yuma Energy aims to expand its BaaS solution beyond two-wheelers and cater to a broader range of EV categories. It will also continue to expand on all fronts from network size and swapping capacity to touchpoint formats, geographies, product portfolio and technologies.

  • A future perspective of technology in sports mat

    A future perspective of technology in sports mat

    In the dynamic world of sports, where precision, performance, and innovation reign supreme, the integration of technology has sparked a revolution. From performance enhancement to fan engagement, innovation has consistently reshaped the athletic experience. At the core of the future sports mat lies advanced sensor technology. Embedded within the mat’s fabric, these sensors can capture a myriad of data points, including pressure distribution, force,  impact, and movement patterns. These mats, essential in various sports such as gymnastics, martial arts, wrestling, and yoga, are undergoing a technological revolution that promises to enhance athlete performance, safety, and overall experience.

    The advanced materials and nanotechnology sports mat  

    Traditional foam-based mats are being replaced with materials engineered at the molecular level. Nanotechnology is at the forefront of this transformation. By manipulating materials on an atomic or molecular scale, manufacturers can create mats that are not only lighter and more resilient but also offer superior impact resistance. One of the primary goals of sports is to push the limits of human performance. Nanotechnology contributes significantly to this objective through the development of advanced materials.

    Smart mats with sensors  

    The most exciting development in sports mats is the integration of smart technology. Embedded sensors can monitor various parameters such as pressure, impact force, and movement patterns. This data can be invaluable for both athletes and coaches. For athletes, it provides real-time feedback on their performance, helping them adjust their techniques and avoid injuries.

    Augmented reality integration  

    The integration of augmented reality into sports mats opens up a new realm of possibilities. AR can enhance training sessions by overlaying digital information onto the physical mat. This can include visual cues for exercises, performance metrics, or even virtual opponents for combat sports training.

    Eco-friendly and sustainable innovations

    As environmental concerns become increasingly important, the sports industry is also looking towards eco-friendly solutions. The future of sports mats includes the development of sustainable materials that minimize environmental impact without compromising performance. Biodegradable and recyclable materials are being explored to replace traditional synthetic foams and plastics.

    Injury prevention  

    Embedded sensors can detect abnormal force patterns that may indicate an increased risk of injury. Early identification of potential problems allows for timely intervention and preventive measures.

    Customisation

    Advancements in manufacturing technologies, particularly 3D printing, are paving the way for highly customizable sports mats. Athletes can have mats tailored to their specific needs, such as personalized thickness, firmness, and surface texture. This customization can enhance performance by providing the exact level of support and cushioning required for an athlete’s unique biomechanics and preferences.

    Virtual coaching  

    Virtual reality can be integrated into the mat to create immersive training environments. Athletes can practice complex skills in a simulated setting, enhancing their muscle memory and decision-making abilities without the risk of physical injury.

    Integration with wearable technology

    The future of sports mats will also see greater integration with wearable technology. Wearable devices such as smartwatches and fitness trackers can sync with the sensors embedded in smart mats to provide a comprehensive overview of an athlete’s performance and health metrics.  

    This integration allows for a more holistic approach to training, where data from the mat and wearable devices are combined to give a complete picture of the athlete’s physical condition.

    Material innovation with energy harvesting

    The future sports mat will likely be constructed from advanced materials that offer superior performance and durability with a source of renewable energy. This energy can be stored and used to power the mat’s sensors and other electronic components, reducing the environmental impact of the product. The future sports mat will likely be constructed from advanced materials that offer superior performance and durability. Self-healing materials could extend the mat’s lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.

    Personalised training  

    The intelligent sports mat can create personalized training programs based on an athlete’s individual goals, abilities, and injury history. AI algorithms can analyse vast amounts of data to identify optimal exercise routines and progression paths. This level of customization can accelerate athletic development and maximize performance gains.

    The future of sports mat technology  

    The future sports mat is not merely a piece of equipment, it is a dynamic training tool that will redefine the way we approach athletic performance and injury prevention. As technology continues to evolve, we can anticipate even more ground-breaking innovations that will shape the future of sports.

    The future of technology in sports mats is incredibly promising, with advancements in materials, smart technology, augmented reality,  sustainability, customisation, and integration with wearable devices. As these technologies continue to evolve, sports mats will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the future of athletic development.

    The article has been authored by Gravolite director Paras Maheshwari.

  • Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel launch customer self-service app

    Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel launch customer self-service app

    Mumbai: Building momentum on its digital-first strategy, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd – an omnichannel travel services company and its group company, SOTC Travel, have launched a Customer Self-Service (CSS) holiday app. Available for both iOS and Android users, the app offers customers a seamless end-to-end post-booking experience.

    Traditionally, the post-booking process was time-consuming and stressful for customers – involving coordinating various elements including visas (getting details on documents required, visa forms, processing time and tracking), flights, hotel vouchers, itinerary, attractions, invoices and receipts. Hence, Thomas Cook and SOTC’s innovative CSS app will now empower customers with a convenient, easy-to-access interface – making their post-booking experience simple and intuitive.

    Having piloted the CSS app in April 2024, the app has seen significant enhancements and currently enjoys a strong customer adoption of 50 per cent.

    Key features of the Customer Self-Service app:

    1.    Comprehensive Booking Details: Customers can view all aspects of their booked trips, including flights, hotel reservations, sightseeing schedules, transportation, guides, and meal preferences

    2.    Instant Accessibility: Round-the-clock access from any location

    3.    Travel Documentation: Customers can now access important travel documents such as flight tickets, visa document requirements, process and downloadable forms, hotel vouchers, and insurance details on the go

    4.    Real-Time Updates: invaluable visa status tracker, updates on weather conditions and other critical travel information significantly reducing the turnaround time for customers

    5.    Omnichannel advantage: The app is channel agnostic and hence available to customers who have booked  online, offline or a combination thereof

    MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd president & country head of holidays Rajeev Kale said, “We are consistently exploring ways to deliver a truly seamless experience for our customers. I am hence delighted with the launch of our CSS app – that empowers our customers with simplified post-booking services at their fingertips. With the festive season approaching, this launch is perfectly timed to elevate our customers’ experience for their upcoming holidays.”

    SOTC Travel president & country head – holidays Daniel D’Souza said, “With a legacy of 75 years of being an Indian-entrepreneurial brand, SOTC believes that ‘no one understands the Indian traveller better than SOTC’. Whether customers book their trips online or through our stores, we understand that the post-booking phase can be a stressful period. Through the launch of our innovative CSS app, we look forward to providing our customers with the comfort and convenience of a smooth post-booking experience.”