PLDT Inc., Smart, MediaQuest Holdings, Cignal TV, and NTT DATA have joined forces to revolutionize the experience for basketball fans attending the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 in Manila. Introducing Pearl, the Philippines’ first Digital Human, this collaboration aims to provide an entirely new and engaging interaction for sports enthusiasts.
Pearl, a conversational AI Avatar powered by Digital Human technology, will be stationed at special kiosks at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and the Mall of Asia Arena. Equipped with ChatGPT technology, visual and sound sensors, Pearl can communicate with sports fans in both English and Filipino, answering their FIBA-related queries and offering helpful information such as directions to their seats, snack options, and recommended activities in Manila.
This innovative initiative marks the first instance of Digital Human technology being deployed in Asia. Pearl combines various cutting-edge technologies, including speech recognition, machine learning, natural language processing, and conversational AI, allowing her to engage with people authentically, complete with detailed facial expressions.
For basketball enthusiasts wanting real-time updates on the games, Pearl will provide the latest game results, statistics, leaderboards, and upcoming match schedules upon request. Developed by NTT DATA in collaboration with NTT Ltd. and NTT DATA Business Solutions, this Digital Human technology aims to promote Smart Solutions, offering globally-connected experiences to fans.
The NTT Group has previously implemented Smart Solutions in various major sporting events like the Tour de France, IndyCar Series, and Major League Baseball, and now, in partnership with Smart, PLDT Enterprise, MediaQuest, and Cignal, it brings these innovative solutions to the Philippines just in time for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.
NTT DATA Executive Vice President Noriyuki Kaya expressed his excitement about introducing Smart Solutions to the Philippine audience during this global event. He looks forward to future collaborations with the PLDT Group and Mediaquest in further developing innovative solutions.
Alfredo S. Panlilio, President and CEO of PLDT and Smart Communications, and also the President of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), expressed his enthusiasm for bringing next-generation technologies to Filipino basketball fans. He stated that the interactions between the fans and Pearl will offer valuable insights towards enhancing the live stadium experience for future events.
Jane J. Basas, President and CEO of Mediaquest and Cignal, emphasized that Pearl not only enhances the FIBA game experience but also allows fans to catch a glimpse of the emerging digital future. Introducing Smart Solutions in Philippine sports promises to elevate the fan experience to new heights.
With Pearl’s presence at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, basketball enthusiasts and tourists alike can look forward to a remarkable and interactive experience. The deployment of Digital Human technology and Smart Solutions will undoubtedly shape the future of spectator engagement in major sporting events, offering fans unparalleled access to information and an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional watching.
In conclusion, Pearl, the Philippines’ first Digital Human, powered by NTT DATA’s innovative technology, is set to transform the way basketball fans experience the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. With her conversational AI capabilities and wealth of FIBA-related knowledge, Pearl will be a valuable resource for fans, providing real-time updates and recommendations while creating an unforgettable interactive experience. This collaboration between PLDT Inc., Smart, MediaQuest Holdings, Cignal TV, and NTT DATA showcases their commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions and elevating the live sports experience for audiences worldwide.
