Three innovative startups are revolutionizing how visually impaired sports fans experience live games through groundbreaking tactile technology. OneCourt, Field of Vision, and Touch2See have each developed devices that convert real-time sports action into touch-based feedback, allowing blind spectators to literally feel the game as it unfolds.
The concept emerged after the founders were moved by viral videos showing blind fans having their hands guided across miniature sports fields to understand game play. This inspired them to create scalable solutions that would give visually impaired fans independence in following live sports.
"Knowing what's happening as it's happening, and being able to celebrate with everybody else—that's the magic of it," explains OneCourt CEO Jerred Mace.
While each company's approach differs slightly, all three devices track the ball's position and translate it into tactile movement that users can follow with their fingers. Field of Vision utilizes proprietary cameras and a "language of vibrations" to communicate different game events. Touch2See harnesses professional sports analytics data and vibration-based feedback. OneCourt employs an innovative "pixel-based" system similar to animated braille.
The devices feature interchangeable plates with grooved markings representing different sports fields. They can integrate with audio commentary and operate over WiFi or 5G networks to deliver real-time feedback with minimal latency.
Early adopters are already experiencing the impact. Martin Gordon, an Irish rugby fan who lost his sight over 20 years ago, tested Field of Vision's device at a Six Nations match. "Being able to feel it exactly is incredible," he says. "Now somebody who's never even seen a rugby pitch can really get a feel for the game."
The technology is gaining traction in professional sports. Touch2See was featured at the Olympics and French soccer matches. OneCourt is available at NBA games in Portland and Sacramento. Field of Vision has partnerships with venues in Australia and Ireland.
All three companies are now working to bring their devices into homes, where they expect the technology to reach its widest audience. But the immediate focus remains on expanding stadium availability to give more blind fans access to the full excitement of live sports.
As paralympic athlete Daniele Cassioli noted after trying Touch2See at a soccer match in Italy, these innovations are "life-changing" for visually impaired sports enthusiasts. The technology is helping restore an essential element of fandom that many thought was permanently lost with their sight - the ability to experience every thrilling moment alongside fellow spectators.