Smartphones are changing the fan experience at live sports events. Their increased use has left ripples on fan engagement.
Over the past few years, smartphones have become ubiquitous in our daily lives. We use them for everything from communication to entertainment, and this includes while attending live sports events. Even though people are attending live sports specifically to watch the game, don’t discount the prevalence of phone use during the game. They have revolutionized the fan experience, with fans being able to participate from the stands in ways that were previously not possible.
Sharing the Experience on Social Media
Of course, we can’t talk about phone use at the game without mentioning social media. One of the most common trends in phone use by fans at live sports events is the sharing of the experience online with your friends and followers. Fans love to capture the moment and share it with their friends and family in real-time. Sharing pictures to Facebook and Instagram, venting about the refs on Twitter, and checking the box score live during timeouts are just a few ways fans are engaging during the game. This trend has created a more interactive experience for fans.
Accessing Game-Related Information
Another trend in phone use by fans at live sports events is the access to game-related information. Fans can use their smartphones to access information related to the game, such as player statistics, scores, and schedules. Some sports organizations have developed their own mobile apps that provide this information, as well as live streaming of the game. This trend allows fans to stay informed about the game they’re attending with up to the second information that can’t always be displayed on in-house screens.
Mobile Ticketing
Another trend in phone use by fans at live sports events is mobile ticketing. Many sports organizations have moved away from traditional paper tickets and now offer mobile ticketing, some going as far as sunsetting paper tickets altogether and requiring mobile tickets. This trend allows fans to enter the stadium using their phone, eliminating the need for physical tickets. It reduces the risk of losing or damaging the paper tickets and also makes lines at the entry quicker and more efficient.
Mass Participation Games and Contests
Another trend in phone use by fans at live sports events is the use of mass participation games that fans can play live via their smartphones. These games are designed to be played during the game and are usually games like Live Trivia, Live Poll, or prediction games. They allow fans to participate in the game in a more active way, and they can compete with other fans for prizes and bragging rights. This trend encourages fan engagement, creates a more interactive experience and adds an extra layer of excitement to the game.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Finally, with the advancement of technology, some sports organizations have started to incorporate virtual reality and augmented reality into their games. This trend allows fans to experience the game in a new way, with immersive features such as 360-degree views and live-action replays. This trend is still in its infancy, but it has the potential to transform the fan experience in ways that we cannot even imagine yet.
Smartphones are Changing the Fan Experience
In conclusion, smartphones have transformed the fan experience at live sports events. With the ability to share experiences, access information, and engage in new ways, fans are more connected to the game than ever before. The use of mass participation games is just one example of how sports organizations are embracing this trend and creating a more interactive experience for fans. It will be exciting to see how technology continues to shape the fan experience in the future.
Want to join the fan engagement revolution at your arena. Schedule a time to talk with our team and we will answer all of your questions and take you on a tour of Duelbox.
