Volumetric Capture Tech Poised to Revolutionize Sports Viewing

Article Summary

Peripheral Labs is pioneering a novel approach to live sports viewing using volumetric capture technology. The company’s system leverages advancements in AI models and computer vision to reconstruct 3D video footage from standard cameras, offering viewers the ability to virtually ‘step inside’ the action. Initially, the technology requires over 100 cameras, but the startup’s design, informed by their experience with self-driving car perception, reduces this to a more manageable 32, drastically lowering costs and operational complexity. This approach directly addresses declining viewership amongst Gen Z by providing a more engaging and interactive viewing experience. Peripheral Labs, founded by Kelvin Cui and Mustafa Khan (both previously involved in driverless car development at the University of Toronto), is targeting leagues and broadcasters with a platform that not only captures 3D video but also incorporates biomechanical data – like player joint movements – for coaches and analysts. Recent seed funding of $3.6 million from Khosla Ventures, alongside participation from Daybreak Capital and Entrepreneurs First, underscores the significant potential of this technology. This competitive advantage is bolstered by the founders’ background in robotics and their understanding of scaling systems from small practice environments to large stadiums, alongside the platform’s capabilities to measure player movements and analyze player flexibility.

Key Points

• Peripheral Labs is developing a cost-effective 3D reconstruction system for live sports viewing.
• The technology leverages AI and robotics perception to reduce the number of cameras needed compared to traditional volumetric capture methods.
• The system incorporates biomechanical data to provide deeper insights for coaches and analysts.