Kings take stake in virtual reality leader VOKE founded by Indian American.
By Sujeet Rajan
NEW YORK: Students at Dhirubai Ambani International School in Mumbai, India and children hospitalized at the Kaiser Permanente Women and Children’s Center in Roseville, California, will view the 2015 home opener of the Sacramento Kings, on October 28, from one of the most-sought after seats at Sleep Train Arena – courtside next to Kings Owner and Chairman Vivek Ranadivé.
Make that watching the game in real-time virtual reality, though.
The opportunity for the children in Mumbai, located 8,000 miles away from the NBA opener, and Roseville, is being made possible after the Kings announced a strategic investment in VOKE, a leading virtual-reality innovator and immersive real-time and on-demand media company.
“Around the world, there are fans who may never have the chance to be a part of the spectacle of NBA basketball,” said Ranadivé, in a statement. “By partnering with VOKE, we can share the in-arena excitement in an unprecedented way. Through technology, we’ll connect with emerging fans, find new ones, and provide a truly unique experience.”
VOKE’s media platform utilizes a synchronized multiple point-of-view stereoscopic panoramic camera system that allows fans to be immersed in live action, as well as access multiple seat locations, according to a press release.
A seamless 180 degree view allows viewers to follow the action in every direction. The technology enables mobile devices, computers and virtual reality headsets to utilize the same feed, as well as provide special control in 2D and 3D. Virtual add-ons like scoreboards, advanced player metrics and custom video provides the viewer with more information than ever before.
“The Sacramento Kings are well-known as a leader in bringing technology breakthroughs to the sports industry,” said Dr. S. (Jay) Jayaram, VOKE’s co-founder and CEO, in a statement. “As such, their investment in VOKE is a strong statement. We’ve been working with the Kings to create engaging real-time virtual reality experiences of live basketball games. We are looking forward to delivering an unrivaled immersive experience to Kings fans via VR headsets, mobile phones and tablets.”