MLB Postseason: NTT, MLB Deliver First ‘Ultra Reality Viewing’ Experience in U.S.

Game 3 of the Astros-Rays ALDS series was broadcast in URV for audience MLB Network HQ

At Game 3 of the Houston Astros-Tampa Bay Rays ALDS at Tropicana Field on Monday, NTT and MLB successfully conducted a proof of concept with NTT’s Ultra Reality Viewing technology (URV) as part of their recently announced multi-year technology agreement making the Japan-based company an official MLB partner in the United States. This marked the first live sports event in the US to feature the real-time, super-high definition surround video technology.

In the ballpark, NTT installed multiple 4K cameras that transmitted high-definition images (12K wide) in real time to a super-wide screen (90.6 in x 469 in) with six-channel surround sound, including original audio source, to a viewing area set up at MLB Network’s studio in Secaucus, NJ. According to NTT, this URV technology created a uniquely transformative sensation that put the remote viewer into the ballpark, creating a life-like atmosphere.

Enterprise partners were invited to this viewing event to increase the awareness for other potential uses of URV experience technology. NTT and MLB will continue to work toward expanding the use of URV technology for new and exciting fan experiences for other events.

URV is NTT’s real-time, super high-definition surround video synthesis technology that combines multiple 4K camera images into a super-wide image, such as 12K, in real time and transmits them synchronously to remote locations. With super high-definition panoramic video that cannot be captured by conventional cameras, synchronized with immersive audio technologies that enable original sounds to be captured and transmitted to a remote location without delay and any loss of quality, audiences can view sports or events content as if they were watching it live in the stadium, on the field or in the theatre. URV, which is based on NTT’s Kirari! R&D technology, has been successfully implemented in Japan to enhance audience viewing and fan experiences.

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