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Blind and deaf sports fans will be able to fully experience live events with the help of various devices at stadiums across the United States. Audio description, vibrating vests, and touch tablets are among the tools being used to enhance their viewing experience and allow them to enjoy sports like football, tennis, and Paralympic disciplines. These devices aim to make sports more accessible and enjoyable for all fans, regardless of their abilities.
At the Bercy Arena in Paris, blind fans were able to follow the French Cup basketball finals using audio description technology. This device provided a commentator’s description of the action, allowing blind spectators to fully experience the game. Pierre-Marie Micheli, who is blind, enjoyed experiencing rugby matches through audio description and using touch tablets that provided a tactile experience of the game. Similarly, deaf fans like Khaled Kharraz benefited from vibrating vests that converted sounds into vibrations, allowing them to feel the energy of the game and follow along with the action.
These devices are not yet widely used but are expected to become more prevalent as technology continues to advance. The Paris-2024 Olympic Games will include audio description in six sports and ten Paralympic disciplines across thirteen facilities. Touch tablets will also be available in six event facilities for football, rugby, basketball, and Paralympic ball sports competitions.
Overall, these devices aim to make sports events more accessible and enjoyable for all fans by providing innovative technology and inclusive design solutions for those with disabilities. By doing so, they create a sense of community and shared enjoyment among fans of all backgrounds.