After bringing insights through its Robot boxing wearable, PIQ is now joining forces with broadcaster Canal+ to bring the same live stats to viewers during fights.
The move marks the first time the technology will be used in broadcasting, with sensors worn by the fighters able to provide information on the speed, power and type of punches being thrown. The latter will be displayed as a G-force metric, while the retraction time will also be provided.
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PIQ is able to provide the data in real time thanks to a nano-computer that records movements and AI that helps break down the picture.
The pair have indicated the stats will be displayed at "key moments" in the fight, with the next airing with PIQ's data taking place on July 1 — as fights between Mickael Diallo v Bernard Donfack and Arsen Goulamirian v Alexander Kubich take place.
Of course, while this is hinted to be dropping inside a fight's big moments, just when this is actually fed through remains to be seen.
After all, with bouts often swinging in the blink of an eye, having stats running along the bottom of the screen or in a corner graphic and potentially distracting viewers is a challenge to overcome.
Still, that's ignoring the fact that bringing this kind of data in real-time is a big step forward, regardless of the how it's initially used. The next step for PIQ will no doubt be bringing more users to its wearable device and continuing to familiarise the community with the tech by providing insights to a host of broadcasters.
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Conor moved to Wareable Media Group in 2017, initially covering all the latest developments in smartwatches, fitness trackers, and VR. He made a name for himself writing about trying out translation earbuds on a first date and cycling with a wearable airbag, as well as covering the industry’s latest releases.
Following a stint as Reviews Editor at Pocket-lint, Conor returned to Wareable Media Group in 2022 as Editor-at-Large. Conor has become a wearables expert, and helps people get more from their wearable tech, via Wareable's considerable how-to-based guides.
He has also contributed to British GQ, Wired, Metro, The Independent, and The Mirror.