Jio's request to broadcast IPL games in 4K video resolution was granted by the BCCI

Sports18 is planning to broadcast the IPL in 16–17 languages and include tools like "Appointment Viewing" to improve the viewer experience.

Jio's request to broadcast IPL games in 4K video resolution was granted by the BCCI

This year, IPL games will be broadcast by Jio-led Sports18 in 4K video resolution to improve the viewing experience for its viewers.

 

High-Definition (HD) video with a 4K resolution is thought to have four times the resolution of a 1080p HD video. Up until 2022, Hotstar, the IPL's official digital partner, broadcast matches via the HD feed.

 

According to sources, Jio claimed to be broadcasting FIFA matches in 4K, but it wasn't end-to-end. "For Jio, FIFA was a teaching moment. They have been working tirelessly on improving the technological front over the past two months, and are expected to provide a high-quality experience during the IPL, according to a senior media planner.

 

The broadcaster even faced criticism during FIFA because of technical difficulties during the transmission of two games. However, the finals, which drew a sizable audience, brought the situation under control.

 

Industry insiders estimate that Sports18 spent several hundred crores assembling its technology staff for the IPL. It currently has one of the largest technical teams in India, according to a seasoned professional.

 

Additionally, the company is looking at the possibility of providing the feed in 16 to 17 languages, including Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and Odia. "They have emphasized the necessity of making the IPL local in their presentation. Everyone should have access to it through their mobile headset in their preferred language.

 

The internet stream is also likely to include "appointment viewing," which allows viewers to check the scoreboard and other graphics whenever they want to rather than waiting for the broadcaster to do it.

 

"Up until now, we could only see the scorecards, statistics, and graphics during a cricket match when the broadcaster choose to flash them on the screen. The scoreboard will now always be visible to viewers on Sports18 by just clicking an icon, according to a source.

Early this month, Sports18 revealed its decision to stream IPL free on the Jio app, which is expected to be a game-changer for IPL this season. The broadcaster stated that it planned to reach more than 500 million viewers. The app is anticipated to sell its content in 10-second intervals as well as on the basis of impressions as part of its plan to compete directly with TV.