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Lauren Betts, Myles Garrett, Billie Jean King, Ilona Maher, Brandon Marshall, Katie McCabe, Alex Morgan, Oscar Piastri, Gerard Piqué, Nigel Sylvester, Ian Wright OBE and More Confirmed to Attend

NEW YORK, May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Stagwell (NASDAQ: STGW), the challenger network built to transform marketing, today announced an expanded roster of SPORT BEACH 2025 partners as well as an early look at programming for June 16-19, 2025 at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. […]

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NEW YORK, May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Stagwell (NASDAQ: STGW), the challenger network built to transform marketing, today announced an expanded roster of SPORT BEACH 2025 partners as well as an early look at programming for June 16-19, 2025 at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.

New additions to this year’s lineup include college basketball player Lauren Betts, NFL’s Myles Garrett, tennis legend Billie Jean King, rugby star Ilona Maher, former NFL player Brandon Marshall, Arsenal & Republic of Ireland footballer Katie McCabe, 2x World Cup Champion Alex Morgan, F1 racer Oscar Piastri, former professional football player Gerard Piqué, BMX star Nigel Sylvester, and Premier League Hall of Famer Ian Wright OBE. Check out the full roster at sportbeach.com.

Stagwell also revealed a first look at 2025 programming aligned to the five key themes of Athletes as Creators, Culture & Community Reimagined, Global Reach in Overdrive, Resilience & Wellness Redefined, and Tech & Innovation Unleashed.

Newly Announced Athlete Partners

  • Lauren Betts (Basketball) – Lauren is a first-team All-American center for the UCLA women’s basketball team and a projected lottery pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. Once the No. 1 ranked player in the country coming out of high school, she has established herself as one of the premier athletes in all of women’s basketball. Lauren has earned numerous accolades, including first-team All-Big 10 honors and the title of Big 10 Defensive Player of the Year. Beyond basketball, she is dedicated to her community and passionate about leveraging her platform to inspire young athletes.
  • Myles Garrett (Football) – Myles is an American football defensive end for the Cleveland Browns and the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He played college football at Texas A&M, where he received unanimous All-American honors in 2016, and was selected first overall by the Browns in the 2017 NFL draft. Garrett has been named to five Pro Bowls, three first-team All-Pros, and is the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
  • Billie Jean King (Tennis) – Billie Jean King was the year-end #1 tennis player in the world six times in her career and won 39 Grand Slam titles and 3 World TeamTennis championships. She founded the Women’s Sports Foundation and the Women’s Tennis Association and was the first female athlete to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the first individual woman athlete to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. She founded the Billie Jean King Foundation and is part of the ownership groups of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Angel City FC and on the Advisory Board of the Professional Women’s Hockey League. A New York Times bestselling author, her memoir, All In, was released in 2021 and released in paperback in 2023.
  • Ilona Maher (Rugby) – Ilona Maher is a Team USA Rugby Sevens Bronze Medalist and two-time Olympian, having represented the United States in Paris 2024 and Tokyo 2020. Ilona is a viral sensation across social media with over 8.5 million followers for sharing her authentic and witty journey as a professional female athlete to help grow the game of rugby and promote body appreciation. Ilona has also broken into the entertainment world, as the Dancing with the Stars Season 33 Runner Up and launching the Wave Original podcast, House of Maher, which she co-hosts with her two sisters. Her authenticity, humor, and important message has also led her to partner with several iconic brands, most notably – Maybelline, which she is known for sporting on her lip both on and off the rugby pitch.
  • Brandon Marshall (Football) – Brandon is a former NFL star and founder of I Am Athlete and House of Athlete. Brandon is now focusing his career as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist. He is also known for his advocacy work, particularly his support for mental health awareness and resources.
  • Katie McCabe (Soccer) – Katie McCabe is an Irish professional footballer known for her versatility, leadership, and skill on the pitch. She plays as a left-back for Arsenal and captains the Republic of Ireland national team. Alongside her Arsenal Women teammates, Katie was involved in Dirt Is Good’s Every Stain campaign from the beginning to help encourage girls’ participation in sport. Katie continues to inspire with her commitment both on and off the field, representing a new era of football leadership.
  • Alex Morgan (Soccer) – Two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion, Olympic Gold Medalist, UEFA Women’s Champions League Champion, and NWSL Champion, Alex Morgan is a proven winner at all levels. Businesswoman, author, social media phenom, marketing icon – she is all this and more, proof that Alex’s ability to inspire and excite fans stretches far beyond the pitch. Alex is the leading founder of TOGETHXR, a lifestyle and new media company with a focus on youth and equality storytelling. In 2023, Alex launched the Alex Morgan Foundation to help girls and women find confident paths forward in sport and in life. As a mom to Charlie and Enzo, Alex is tackling motherhood along with her recent retirement from professional soccer. As she turns her attention to growing and managing her business, she remains an inspiration to so many on how to embody strength, leadership, and grace.
  • Oscar Piastri (F1) – McLaren Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri is one of the most decorated young talents in motorsport history. The 2021 Formula 2 Champion, 2020 Formula 3 Champion, and 2019 Formula Renault Eurocup Champion, Piastri is the first driver to win all three feeder series titles consecutively on his path to Formula 1. In his rookie F1 season, he made headlines by leading a race at Spa—the first rookie to do so in over a decade—and earning a front-row qualifying spot at Suzuka, a feat not achieved by a rookie since 2010. He capped the season with a podium finish at the Japanese Grand Prix, becoming the first rookie on an F1 podium since 2017. A three-time Autosport Rookie of the Year and two-time FIA Rookie of the Year, Piastri continues Australia’s proud F1 legacy and recently secured a multi-year contract extension with McLaren.
  • Gerard Piqué (Soccer) – Gerard Piqué is a former professional football player and entrepreneur, known for his success with FC Barcelona, Manchester United, and the Spanish national team. A 2010 FIFA World Cup winner and 2012 European Champion, Gerard also won four UEFA Champions League titles. After retiring, he founded Kosmos, a sports and media holding company, and created the Kings League – a revolutionary football competition that combines entertainment and sport. Gerard’s projects reflect his passion for innovation and sport, extending his influence beyond the pitch as a key figure in transforming the football experience for fans around the world.
  • Nigel Sylvester (BMX) – Nigel is an American professional BMX athlete, creative, entrepreneur, filmmaker, and philanthropist. Nigel’s career has extended beyond traditional BMX biking through his progressive riding style, one-of-a-kind artistic expression, and innovative content creation which has accumulated over 100 million views including his GO series. These distinctive characteristics have catapulted Sylvester to the forefront of the sports world. While a sought-out professional athlete and the first BMX athlete to sign to Michael Jordan’s coveted Jordan Brand roster, Sylvester’s creative vision has also been tapped over the years to partner with global brands including Nike, EA Sports, Mercedes, Levi’s, Louis Vuitton, PlayStation, Moncler, Specialized Bikes, Rimowa, New Era, Hyperice and SmartWater, pushing the boundaries of sport and art.
  • Ian Wright OBE (Soccer) – Premier League Hall of Famer and former England international, Ian Wright is Arsenal’s all-time second-top goal scorer, Premier League Golden Boot winner, and Crystal Palace Player of the Century. Now a much-loved pundit, host of podcast Wrighty’s House and co-host of women’s football show Crossways, Ian is a leading football media voice. He is determined to make all sides and every level of football as good as they can be, in every community around the world.

Newly Announced 2025 Program Host

  • TJ Adeshola – TJ Adeshola is an internationally recognized media executive at the intersection of tech, sport, and culture. He currently serves as an Operating Partner at Arctos Partners, a leading sports private investment firm, where he advises global franchises on digital fan engagement, commercialization, and innovation. Previously, TJ led Twitter’s Global Media Partnerships business, driving strategic initiatives with the world’s most influential media brands across sports, gaming, entertainment, and news. A trusted voice in the industry, TJ has appeared on Good Morning America, ESPN, CNBC, and more. He’s been honored by the American Advertising Federation’s Hall of Achievement, named to Adweek’s “Young Influentials” list, and recognized by Sports Business Journal, Ad Age, and Black Enterprise 40 Under 40.

Newly Announced Brand and Media Partners

  • Adobe is changing the world through personalized digital experiences. Adobe empowers everyone, everywhere to imagine, create, and bring any digital experience to life. From creators and students to small businesses, global enterprises, and nonprofit organizations — customers choose Adobe products to ideate, collaborate, be more productive, drive business growth and build remarkable experiences. At Stagwell’s SPORT BEACH, Adobe invites you to take part in the Creative Types ‘Shape the Future’ quiz to discover more about your creative personality.
  • Dirt Is Good (DIG) is Unilever’s global master brand platform, uniting a portfolio of leading laundry detergent brands—including OMO, Persil, Surf Excel, Breeze, Rinso, Ala, and Skip—under a shared, purpose-driven mission: to champion the idea that dirt is not the enemy, but a natural part of living, growing, and getting stuck in. Operating in over 60 markets and present in half a billion households, Dirt Is Good is a €4.3 billion business and Unilever’s third-largest brand. It is also the most chosen home care brand in the world, reflecting its deep resonance with families across cultures and continents. For more information about Dirt Is Good and our brands please visit www.persil.com
  • DoubleVerify (“DV”) (NYSE: DV) is the industry’s leading media effectiveness platform that leverages AI to drive superior outcomes for global brands. By powering media efficiency and performance, DV strengthens the online advertising ecosystem, preserving the fair value exchange between buyers and sellers of digital media.
  • e.l.f. Beauty (NYSE: ELF) is fueled by a belief that anything is e.l.f.ing possible. We are a different kind of company that disrupts norms, shapes culture and connects communities, committed to positivity, inclusivity and accessibility. Our mission is clear: to make the best of beauty accessible to every eye, lip and face. Our brands, e.l.f. Cosmetics, e.l.f. SKIN, Keys Soulcare, Well People and NATURIUM are led by purpose, driven by results and elevated by our superpowers. e.l.f. Beauty offers e.l.f. clean and vegan products, all double-certified by Leaping Bunny and PETA as cruelty free and we proudly stand as the first beauty company with Fair Trade Certified™ facilities. A kind heart is at the center of our ethos: We donate 2% of net profits to organizations that make positive impacts. Learn more at www.elfbeauty.com
  • Fortune‘s mission is to change the world by making business better. We achieve that by providing trusted information, telling great stories, and building world-class communities. We measure performance by rigorous benchmarks, and we hold companies accountable. Our goal is to make Fortune a force for good through its second century and beyond. Get in touch: https://fortune.com/advertising/.
  • InMobi is a global consumer technology company transforming how people discover and engage with content through AI. It is the parent company of Glance, which delivers AI-powered mobile experiences to over 300 million users across India, Indonesia, Japan, and US. Its next-gen platform, Glance AI, turns device screens into personalized hubs for content, shopping, fashion, and entertainment—powered by generative AI. InMobi Advertising is a global leader in mobile marketing, offering end-to-end solutions that help brands drive ROI and app developers monetize effectively. Trusted by marketers and publishers worldwide, InMobi connects businesses to the audiences that matter.
  • Jeff Hamilton is a well-known celebrity fashion designer and the creator of iconic leather jackets that have become a symbol of popular culture. He is best known for his work with the NBA, NFL and other leagues designing championship jackets for teams and individual players like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, etc. His designs, which often feature hand-cut leather appliqués and embroidery, have been worn by a wide range of celebrities, athletes, and world leaders.
  • LOVB, founded in 2020, League One Volleyball (LOVB, pronounced “love”) is reimagining the future of volleyball. The only professional league in the United States with a youth-to-pro ecosystem, LOVB is the #1 American youth volleyball business, and its pro league features some of the very best players in the world including Olympic medalists, NCAA champions and global superstars. For more information on LOVB, its clubs, and its professional teams in Atlanta, Austin, Houston, Madison, Omaha, and Salt Lake, please visit www.lovb.com or on social channels like Instagram.
  • NFL Players Inc. is the for-profit marketing and licensing arm of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), the union that represents professional football players in the NFL. Founded in 1994, NFL Players Inc. manages the group rights of more than 2,000 active players, connecting brands to the authenticity, reach and cultural influence of NFL athletes. It supports over 150 partners – including licensees, sponsors, and media platforms – across e-commerce, retail, digital and direct-to-consumer channels. NFL Players Inc. drives growth and generates player revenue through group licensing, player activations and brand collaborations that bring fans closer to the game. Backed by the strength and legacy of the NFLPA, which has protected the health, safety and financial futures of its members since 1956, NFL Players Inc. ensures that players remain at the center of the business of football. Learn more at nflpa.com/players.
  • NGLmitú is the leading digital media and entertainment company for reaching US Latinos. Its top ComScore rated digital media network reaches over 30 million unique users a month, ranking in the top 20 of all media companies delivering US Latinos in digital. Consumer-facing brands we are mitú, Somos mitú, FIERCE, crema, and Hispanic Kitchen have a combined reach of 15 million followers across social media. NGLmitú super serves the largest growth segment of the U.S. Latino market, those who are English-first or bilingual and digital-first. NGLmitú is a division of CoDigital Media Group, a multinational conglomerate founded in 2006 by Jason Peterson, with a mission to connect consumers to joy through content, community, and commerce. For more information, visit nglmitu.com.
  • The National Hockey League (NHL), founded in 1917, consists of 32 Member Clubs. Each team roster reflects the League’s international makeup with players from more than 20 countries represented, all vying for the most cherished and historic trophy in professional sports – the Stanley Cup. Every year, the NHL entertains more than 670 million fans in-arena and through its partners on national television and radio; more than 191 million followers – league, team and player accounts combined – across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube; and more than 100 million fans online at NHL.com.
  • The National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA), established in 1967, is a labour organization whose members are the players in the National Hockey League. The NHLPA works on behalf of the players in varied disciplines such as labour relations, product licensing, marketing, international hockey and community relations, all in furtherance of its efforts to promote its members and the game of hockey. In 1999, the NHLPA Goals & Dreams fund was launched as a way for the players to give something back to the game they love. Over the past 25 years, tens of thousands of deserving children in 40 countries have benefited from the players’ donations of hockey equipment. NHLPA Goals & Dreams has donated more than $26 million to grassroots hockey programs, making it the largest program of its kind. For more information on the NHLPA, please visit www.nhlpa.com.
  • Nexxen empowers advertisers, agencies, publishers and broadcasters around the world to utilize data and advanced TV in the ways that are most meaningful to them. Our flexible and unified technology stack comprises a demand-side platform (“DSP”) and supply-side platform (“SSP”), with the Nexxen Data Platform at its core. With streaming in our DNA, Nexxen’s robust capabilities span discovery, planning, activation, monetization, measurement and optimization – available individually or in combination – all designed to enable our partners to achieve their goals, no matter how far-reaching or hyper niche they may be. Nexxen is headquartered in Israel and maintains offices throughout the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia-Pacific, and is traded on Nasdaq (NEXN). For more information, visit www.nexxen.com.
  • Overtime empowers the next generation of athletes and fans across digital platforms by building disruptive new sports leagues and developing and distributing original sports content. Overtime owns and operates OTE and Overtime Select in basketball, OT7 in football, and OTX in boxing while producing over 150 pieces of original sports content weekly for its 115MM+ global followers. The company is a key partner to marquee sports leagues and rights holders worldwide, including the NFL, NWSL, ATP Tour and NBC Sports for the Olympic Games. Overtime’s business model is driven by sponsorships, e-commerce, licensing and media rights.
  • Page Six is a world leader in celebrity and entertainment news. As a daily must-read for those who want to stay in the know, Page Six features breaking news and the inside scoop on the latest top stories reaching audiences across all platforms including print, digital, podcasting, TV, video, and social. The Post Digital Network is comprised of the flagship NYPost.com, PageSix.com, including Page Six Style, and Decider.com, covering streaming television and movies. The New York Post and the New York Post Digital Network are owned by News Corp (Nasdaq: NWS, NWSA; ASX: NWS, NWSLV). Page Six and the New York Post will be on the ground at Cannes Lions again this June, with several reporters and photographers covering all of the action. We’ll be producing our annual “Page Six at Cannes” special daily edition of the New York Post, and conducting additional interviews at SPORT BEACH.
  • PayPal has been revolutionizing commerce globally for more than 25 years. Creating innovative experiences that make moving money, selling, and shopping simple, personalized, and secure, PayPal empowers consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. For more information, visit https://www.paypal.com and https://about.pypl.com/.
  • Sephora – A leader in prestige omni-retail, Sephora’s mission is to create a welcoming environment for all, while operating over 3,200 stores in 35 countries worldwide, with an expanding base of over 500 stores across the Americas, and a world-class ecommerce site. Guided by its longstanding company values, Sephora continues to build a community where diversity is expected, self-expression is honored, all are welcomed, and you are included.
  • Snap Inc. is a technology company. We believe the camera presents the greatest opportunity to improve the way people live and communicate. We contribute to human progress by empowering people to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together. The Company’s three core products are Snapchat, a visual messaging app that enhances your relationships with friends, family, and the world; Lens Studio, an augmented reality platform that powers AR across Snapchat and other services; and its AR glasses, Spectacles. For more information, visit snap.com.
  • Strava is the app for active people. With over 150 million athletes in more than 185 countries, it’s more than tracking workouts—it’s where people make progress together, from new habits to new personal bests. No matter your sport or how you track it, Strava’s got you covered. Find your crew, crush your goals, and make every effort count. Strava for Business helps brands connect with a highly engaged global community through Challenges and Sponsored Segments that create movement-driven experiences, inspire action, build loyalty, and drive real-world results. You can be an interruptive ad for them on another platform, or their source of motivation on Strava. For more information, visit business.strava.com.
  • TransUnion‘s suite of identity-powered marketing solutions guides businesses with advanced data-driven insights and analytical tools grounded in a 360-degree view of the consumer. Trusted by some of the most accomplished marketers, agencies, and media companies around the globe to understand, reach, and engage, with current and future customers and precisely measure marketing’s impact.
  • Unrivaled – Unrivaled is a professional women’s basketball league innovating the women’s professional sports landscape with a groundbreaking model centered on investing in its athletes. Co-Founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled is player-owned, providing participating players equity opportunities for a vested interest in the league’s success. Launched in January 2025, Unrivaled features the current top women’s basketball stars in the world across six clubs for a 3-on-3, compressed full court style of play. The league concluded its inaugural season in March after two months of non-stop action and a revolutionary 1 on 1 Tournament presented by Sprite, with games three nights a week airing on TNT, truTV and Max.
  • Vacation Inc – Imagine a sunscreen that takes leisure as seriously as it takes protection. Where the best in modern skincare science meets a sensorial experience that is designed to transport you to paradise. Introducing, returning partner, Vacation® – “Excessively Good” and “Leisure-Enhancing” sunscreen for those who demand the best from life.
  • Wilson Sporting Goods Co. is the world’s leading manufacturer of high-performance sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories. The Company brings more than a century of innovation and heritage to the world of sport – celebrating iconic moments made possible by Wilson across Racquet Sports, Baseball, Softball, American Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer and Golf. Wilson’s partnerships portfolio is unmatched, serving as the Official Ball partner of the NFL, NBA, WNBA, US Open, Roland-Garros, AVP, NCAA March Madness, and more.

Previously announced SPORT BEACH brand partners include: Ad Results Media (ARM), The Athletic, Business Insider, Channel Factory, The Chicago Bulls, Clio Sports, Diageo, Epidemic Sound, Fanatics, La Fete Wine Company, LG Ad Solutions, Meta, Microsoft Advertising, Movember, NBCUniversal, New York Life Insurance Company, Nielsen, Official AI, Peloton, Premion, Qualcomm Technologies Inc., Scripps Sports, STAPLE, TripleLift, VII(N) The Seventh Estate and Zillow Group Inc.

Stagwell agencies 72andSunny, Allison Worldwide, Anomaly, ARound, Assembly, Code and Theory, Colle McVoy, CPB, Crispin, Doner, Forsman & Bodenfors, GALE, Goodstuff, The Harris Poll, HUNTER, INK, Jemini, Locaria, Movers+Shakers, Multiview, Redscout, Stagwell Marketing Cloud, TEAM, Team Epiphany, Tinsel, and Vitro will also have an expanded presence at SPORT BEACH this year.

For the full roster of leaders, innovators, and cultural influencers joining SPORT BEACH 2025, visit sportbeach.com. For more information on Cannes Lions, including the Awards and the Festival, please visit www.canneslions.com.

Stagwell invites brands, athletes, sports leagues, media platforms and other interested parties to reach out to [email protected] to get involved.

About Stagwell
Stagwell is the challenger holding company built to transform marketing. We deliver scaled creative performance for the world’s most ambitious brands, connecting culture-moving creativity with leading-edge technology to harmonize the art and science of marketing. Led by entrepreneurs, our specialists in 45+ countries are unified under a single purpose: to drive effectiveness and improve business results for our clients. Join us at www.stagwellglobal.com.    

Contact
Kara Gelber
[email protected] 

SOURCE Stagwell Inc.





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Is this the end of the road for connected fitness equipment?

When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: JAXJOX Once hailed as the future of home workouts, connected fitness equipment is facing a serious identity crisis, and in some cases, a full-blown shutdown. The latest casualty? JaxJox, the smart home fitness brand that promised a […]

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When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

 JAXJOX DumbellConnect.

Credit: JAXJOX

Once hailed as the future of home workouts, connected fitness equipment is facing a serious identity crisis, and in some cases, a full-blown shutdown.

The latest casualty? JaxJox, the smart home fitness brand that promised a revolution in strength training with its adjustable dumbbells, kettlebells, and sleek app interface. But that slick promise now rings hollow: the company appears to have gone dark, its servers offline, its customer support non-existent.

Owners report their expensive smart weights have lost nearly all functionality, a costly reminder of what happens when your fitness hardware relies on an app that simply stops working.

This isn’t an isolated case. Just days ago, Johnson Health Tech issued a massive (voluntary) recall of 3.84 million Bowflex adjustable dumbbells, citing a serious risk of injury. Over 100 users have already reported being hurt, some with broken bones and concussions.

The recall spans nearly two decades of products sold under Bowflex’s former owner, Nautilus Inc., which itself filed for bankruptcy in 2024 and sold off the brand. Now under new ownership, Bowflex is trying to win back consumer trust, but the damage, much like the dumbbells, might already be done.

So, what’s going on? Why are so many smart fitness brands falling apart just a few years after their pandemic-era peak?

The great connected fitness unravelling

The pandemic created the perfect storm for connected fitness. Gyms were closed, people were stuck at home, and suddenly that pricey piece of smart equipment seemed not just justifiable, but essential. Peloton soared to a $50 billion valuation. Tonal raised hundreds of millions. JaxJox, Hydrow, and others raced to keep up.

Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape has shifted dramatically. Gyms are open, supply chains are back to normal, and consumers are no longer willing to commit to expensive hardware plus subscription combos.

Even Peloton, once the poster child of the movement, is shedding staff, outsourcing manufacturing, and repositioning itself as a content company, not a bike brand.

Tonal Smart Home Gym

Credit: Tonal

Tonal nearly ran out of cash in 2023 before a last-minute funding round saved it, but only after multiple layoffs and store closures. Hydrow, one of the best rowing machine brands, is still afloat and doing well, but increasingly squeezed by more affordable, more entertaining competitors like Aviron.

Meanwhile, the elephant in the weight room is trust. JaxJox users have learned the hard way that if a company goes under, their “connected” gear quickly becomes disconnected for good.

Not all doom and dumbbells

Still, it’s not all bad news. Some companies are adapting – even thriving.

Apple and Garmin are perfect examples. Fitness is just one part of their larger ecosystems, and their devices work with or without a subscription.

The Apple Watch remains one of the most popular smartwatches globally (although trends aren’t rosy), bolstered by regular feature updates and Fitness+ content.

Garmin Venu X1

Credit: Garmin

Garmin watches, meanwhile, cater to endurance athletes and outdoor users with long battery life, offline maps, and metrics that don’t vanish if you cancel your membership. Again, the company did burn itself with the Connect+ launch, but it might turn out to be useful for upcoming wearables.

Lululemon, after a rocky stint with the Mirror smart gym, is now teaming up with Peloton to offer content across platforms, a sign that the future might lie in partnerships and portability, not proprietary gear.

Even WHOOP, known for its wearable health band and performance coaching, has pivoted wisely. Its app and coaching tools remain its main draw, and the company has made progress in offline use, health integrations, and even insurance partnerships.

Not to mention, the latest Whoop MG and Whoop 5.0, as well as the new features announced at the same time as the latest hardware, have been generally well-received.

What happens next?

The golden era of “Netflix for fitness equipment” is over. In its place, we’re seeing a shift back to fundamentals: reliable equipment that works offline, open ecosystems, and apps that enhance the experience without being the experience.

Consumers are savvier now. They want gear that lasts, workouts that don’t disappear if a server goes offline, and fitness tech that doesn’t turn into a paperweight when the funding dries up.

Smart fitness isn’t dead, but it is maturing. The brands that survive this transition will be the ones that respect that truth.



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WatchOS 26 Beta 1 Out Now: Top Health, Fitness Features

Apple has rolled out the first developer beta of watchOS 26, offering a preview of new capabilities coming to its smartwatch ecosystem. The update focuses on boosting performance, expanding health and fitness tools, improving user interface functionality, and enabling deeper personalization. The interface in watchOS 26 Beta 1 has undergone backend refinements aimed at smoother […]

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Apple has rolled out the first developer beta of watchOS 26, offering a preview of new capabilities coming to its smartwatch ecosystem. The update focuses on boosting performance, expanding health and fitness tools, improving user interface functionality, and enabling deeper personalization.

The interface in watchOS 26 Beta 1 has undergone backend refinements aimed at smoother screen transitions and more fluid gestures. App interactions are faster, and key actions like checking alerts or launching apps are optimized to reduce input delays.

Apple continues to advance its health monitoring tools in this beta. New metrics include heart rate variability tracking and improved blood oxygen measurements. Sleep analysis now offers more granular breakdowns of sleep stages. These changes are designed to improve the accuracy and depth of health data available to users.

For those focused on physical activity, watchOS 26 adds features like elevation-aware hiking and configurable interval training modes. GPS accuracy has also been refined for activities such as running and cycling. Post-workout data is more detailed, with the Activity app providing expanded summaries.

watchOS 26 Beta 1 delivers enhanced app responsiveness. System-level changes improve app launch speed and interaction consistency. Battery consumption is better managed through optimized background processes, contributing to longer usability between charges.

Users can choose from new watch face designs and complications. These additions allow for greater control over on-screen information. The settings layout has also been streamlined for quicker access to frequently adjusted preferences.

A built-in task manager debuts in watchOS 26, giving users the ability to manage daily to-do lists from their wrist. Calendar functionality has been upgraded, and messaging tools now offer faster dictation and improved input accuracy. These enhancements support more efficient day-to-day interactions.

As with all early software previews, this beta release may include minor bugs and incomplete features. Developers and early adopters are advised to proceed with caution as Apple continues to refine the software.

watchOS 26 Beta 1 lays the groundwork for a more functional and personalized smartwatch experience. The emphasis on seamless interaction, reliable tracking, and expanded customization suggests that Apple is aiming to deliver a more adaptable and intelligent wearable platform when the full version is released later this year.



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Google, Scale AI plan to split after Meta deal

SAN FRANCISCO, California — Alphabet’s Google, the largest customer of Scale AI, plans to cut ties with Scale after news broke that rival Meta is taking a 49-percent stake in the artificial intelligence (AI) data-labeling startup, five sources familiar with the matter told Reuters. Google had planned to pay Scale AI about $200 million this year […]

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SAN FRANCISCO, California — Alphabet’s Google, the largest customer of Scale AI, plans to cut ties with Scale after news broke that rival Meta is taking a 49-percent stake in the artificial intelligence (AI) data-labeling startup, five sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Google had planned to pay Scale AI about $200 million this year for the human-labeled training data that is crucial for developing technology, including the sophisticated AI models that power Gemini, its ChatGPT competitor, one of the sources said.

The search giant already held conversations with several of Scale AI’s rivals this week as it seeks to shift away much of that workload, sources added.

Scale’s loss of significant business comes as Meta takes a big stake in the company, valuing it at $29 billion. Scale was worth $14 billion before the deal.

Scale AI intends to keep its business running while its CEO, Alexandr Wang, along with a few employees, move over to Meta. Since its core business is concentrated around a few customers, it could suffer greatly if it loses key customers like Google.

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In a statement, a Scale AI spokesman said its business, which spans work with major companies and governments, remains strong, as it is committed to protecting customer data. The company declined to comment on specifics with Google.

Scale AI raked in $870 million in revenue in 2024, and Google spent some $150 million on Scale AI’s services last year, sources said.

Other major tech companies that are customers of Scale’s, including Microsoft, are also backing away. Elon Musk’s xAI is also looking to exit, one of the sources said. OpenAI decided to pull back from Scale several months ago, according to sources familiar with the matter, though it spends far less money than Google.

Companies that compete with Meta in developing cutting-edge AI models are concerned that doing business with Scale could expose their research priorities and road map to a rival, five sources said. By contracting with Scale AI, customers often share proprietary data as well as prototype products for which Scale’s workers are providing data-labeling services.

With Meta now taking a 49-percent stake, AI companies are concerned that one of their chief rivals could gain knowledge about their business strategy and technical blueprints.

The bulk of Scale AI’s revenue comes from charging generative AI model makers for providing access to a network of human trainers with specialized knowledge. The humans annotate complex datasets that are used to “post-train” AI models, and as AI models have become smarter, the demand for the sophisticated human-provided examples has surged.

Scale also does data-labeling for enterprises like self-driving car companies and the US government, which are likely to stay, according to the sources. But its biggest money-maker is in partnering with generative AI model makers, the sources said.

Google had already sought to diversify its data service providers for more than a year, three of the sources said. But Meta’s moves this week have led Google to seek to move off Scale AI on all its key contracts, the sources added. Because of the way data-labeling contracts are structured, that process could happen quickly, two sources said.

“The Meta-Scale deal marks a turning point,” said Jonathan Siddharth, CEO of Turing, a Scale AI competitor.

Labelbox, another competitor, will “probably generate hundreds of millions of new revenue” by the end of the year from customers fleeing Scale, its CEO, Manu Sharma, told Reuters.

Handshake, a competitor focusing on building a network of PhDs and experts, saw a surge of workload from top AI labs that compete with Meta.

“Our demand has tripled overnight after the news,” said Garrett Lord, CEO at Handshake.

Many AI labs now want to hire in-house data-labelers, which allows their data to remain secure, said Brendan Foody, CEO of Mercor, a startup that in addition to competing directly with Scale AI also builds technology around being able to recruit and vet candidates in an automated way, enabling AI labs to scale up their data labeling operations quickly.

The Meta deal will be a boon for Scale AI’s investors including Accel and Index Ventures, as well as its current and former employees.

Meta is fighting the perception that it may have fallen behind in the AI race after its initial set of Llama 4 large language models released in April fell short of performance expectations.



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Kurt Busch Sparks Emotion, Calls for Old-School NASCAR Revival Amid Tech Era

Kurt Busch Demands a Return to NASCAR’s Gritty Roots, Igniting a War Against Technology NASCAR, once a sport that packed grandstands with roaring fans, has seen a shift towards screen-based viewership in recent years. The introduction of high-definition broadcasts, in-car cameras, and advanced technology has transformed the way audiences engage with races. However, this evolution […]

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Kurt Busch Demands a Return to NASCAR’s Gritty Roots, Igniting a War Against Technology

NASCAR, once a sport that packed grandstands with roaring fans, has seen a shift towards screen-based viewership in recent years. The introduction of high-definition broadcasts, in-car cameras, and advanced technology has transformed the way audiences engage with races. However, this evolution has not been without its critics, with veteran driver Kurt Busch leading the charge for a return to NASCAR’s “old-school” charm.

In a recent statement on PRN Live, Busch emphasized the importance of the live fan experience at NASCAR racetracks, highlighting the unique atmosphere and energy that cannot be replicated through screens. Despite the positive aspects that technology has brought to the sport, Busch believes that it has diluted the raw and authentic feel of NASCAR’s roots.

While some embrace the technological advancements, such as the Burn Bar introduced by Prime Video, which provides real-time fuel burn data during races, others, including Busch, express concerns that these innovations are steering NASCAR away from its traditional, blue-collar fan base. The Burn Bar, a game-changing tool that offers insights into race strategies, has divided fans between those craving data-driven analysis and those yearning for the pure thrill of racing.

Busch’s call for an “old-school” NASCAR revival has struck a chord with core fans who miss the visceral experience of being trackside, feeling the thunderous rumble of the cars as they speed by. The tension between embracing technology and preserving the sport’s heritage is palpable, with debates raging on social media about the direction NASCAR should take.

While some, like former champion Jeff Gordon, see the potential benefits of leveraging technology to enhance the fan experience, Busch’s stance underscores the importance of staying true to NASCAR’s origins. As the sport grapples with balancing tradition and innovation, the upcoming races, including the one in Mexico City streamed on Prime Video, will serve as litmus tests for fans’ reception to these changes.

In a sport where speed and adrenaline reign supreme, Kurt Busch’s battle cry for an “old-school” revival is a reminder that sometimes, the best way forward is to look back at where it all began. NASCAR stands at a crossroads, torn between embracing the future and honoring its past, and only time will tell which path it ultimately chooses to follow.



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Telehealth positive example of technology in health care – Shaw Local

Technology has revolutionized mental health care, making it more accessible, affordable and efficient for patients. Telehealth innovation enables providers to offer highly personalized, proactive, and scalable mental health care in ways that weren’t possible a decade ago. I’ve been a therapist for 12 years, and like many of my colleagues, I had to adjust my […]

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Technology has revolutionized mental health care, making it more accessible, affordable and efficient for patients. Telehealth innovation enables providers to offer highly personalized, proactive, and scalable mental health care in ways that weren’t possible a decade ago.

I’ve been a therapist for 12 years, and like many of my colleagues, I had to adjust my practice drastically in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, I was resistant to embrace virtual health care, but I quickly saw the advantages it offered to both my clients and my practice. Teletherapy platforms facilitate secure virtual sessions between therapists and clients, enhancing effectiveness while minimizing accessibility barriers, such as long commutes and child care accommodations. This means more people seek care on their own terms, eliminating the stigma that has long been associated with mental healthcare.

Beyond telehealth, technology continues to transform the mental healthcare space. AI-powered language translation helps foster meaningful client-provider interactions, while wearable technology and mood-tracking apps provide valuable data insights that help clients identify patterns and providers offer real-time treatment options.

It’s important to look at the positive impact of technology and innovation on our world, and improved access to mental health care is one of the clearest examples. In just the past 10 years, America has led the way in health care innovation that has reshaped the health care industry. Imagine what’s to come in the next decade.

I hope lawmakers from Springfield to Washington can see the value of America’s tech leadership and prioritize policies that support continued innovation and improved client outcomes.

Danielle Beardsley, LCPC, CADC, ATR

Barrington



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watchOS 26 Beta 1: Top 15 Features You Need to Know

Apple has unveiled the first beta of watchOS 26, offering a preview of the next evolution for the Apple Watch. This update introduces 15 notable features, emphasizing improvements in the user interface, advanced health and fitness tracking, app performance, and customization. While still in its early stages, this beta hints at a more refined and […]

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Advanced health tracking metrics introduced in watchOS 26 Beta 1

Apple has unveiled the first beta of watchOS 26, offering a preview of the next evolution for the Apple Watch. This update introduces 15 notable features, emphasizing improvements in the user interface, advanced health and fitness tracking, app performance, and customization. While still in its early stages, this beta hints at a more refined and versatile Apple Watch experience. The video below from Zollotech gives us more details on the new watchOS 26 beta.1

Refined User Interface Enhancements

The user interface in watchOS 26 Beta 1 has been thoughtfully redesigned to deliver a smoother and more intuitive experience. Navigation has been optimized for faster and more efficient transitions between screens, making sure that interactions feel seamless. You’ll notice improved responsiveness when swiping, tapping, or scrolling, making tasks like checking notifications or launching apps more effortless. These updates aim to enhance usability, making sure the Apple Watch remains a practical and user-friendly device.

Advanced Health Tracking Features

Health tracking continues to be a core focus of the Apple Watch, and watchOS 26 Beta 1 introduces several new features to elevate its capabilities. The update includes additional metrics to monitor critical health indicators, such as:

  • Heart rate variability, offering insights into your cardiovascular health
  • Blood oxygen levels, providing a clearer picture of your respiratory efficiency
  • Sleep patterns, with detailed analysis of sleep stages

The enhanced sleep tracking feature now delivers actionable insights, helping you optimize your rest and recovery. These updates empower users to make more informed decisions about their overall health and well-being, making the Apple Watch an even more valuable tool for personal wellness.

Enhanced Fitness Tracking for Active Lifestyles

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the new workout modes and tracking improvements introduced in watchOS 26 Beta 1. The update includes:

  • Hiking with elevation tracking, ideal for outdoor adventurers
  • Customizable interval training, allowing you to tailor workouts to your goals

Additionally, GPS accuracy has been significantly improved, making sure that outdoor activities such as running, cycling, or hiking are tracked with greater precision. The Activity app now provides more comprehensive post-workout summaries, offering a clearer and more detailed view of your performance and progress. These enhancements make the Apple Watch an indispensable companion for achieving fitness goals.

Improved App Performance and Stability

Apple has prioritized app performance and reliability in watchOS 26 Beta 1. Apps now launch faster, and interactions feel smoother, minimizing any delays that could disrupt your experience. Background processes have been optimized to enhance battery efficiency, making sure that your Apple Watch remains dependable throughout the day, even during intensive use. These improvements contribute to a more seamless and enjoyable user experience, reinforcing the Apple Watch’s role as a reliable daily tool.

Expanded Customization Options

Personalization takes a significant step forward in watchOS 26 Beta 1. The update introduces new watch face designs and additional complications, allowing you to display the information that matters most to you. Whether you prioritize fitness metrics, calendar events, or weather updates, these new options make it easier to tailor your watch face to your needs. The settings menu has also been reorganized for greater clarity, allowing you to adjust preferences more efficiently. These updates ensure that your Apple Watch feels uniquely yours, reflecting your individual style and priorities.

New Productivity and Communication Tools

watchOS 26 Beta 1 introduces tools designed to enhance productivity and streamline communication. A new task manager allows you to organize and track your to-do lists directly from your wrist, while improved calendar integration helps you stay on top of your schedule. Communication tools have also been upgraded, with enhanced messaging and call-handling capabilities. For instance, dictation accuracy has been improved, making it easier to send messages quickly and efficiently. These features aim to make the Apple Watch an even more integral part of your daily workflow.

What to Expect from the Beta Experience

As with any beta release, watchOS 26 Beta 1 is a work in progress. While the new features are promising, users may encounter occasional bugs or inconsistencies. These issues are expected to be addressed in subsequent beta updates, leading to a polished final release. For those eager to explore the latest advancements, the beta offers an exciting glimpse into the future of the Apple Watch, even as it continues to evolve.

Elevating the Apple Watch Experience

watchOS 26 Beta 1 showcases a range of updates designed to enhance the functionality and personalization of the Apple Watch. From a more intuitive user interface to advanced health and fitness tracking, improved app performance, and expanded customization options, this update aims to make the Apple Watch even more versatile and indispensable. Whether you’re focused on productivity, communication, or personal wellness, these features highlight the potential of the Apple Watch to seamlessly integrate into and elevate your daily life.

Enhance your knowledge on watchOS 26 Beta 1 by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject.

Source & Image Credit: zollotech

Filed Under: Apple, Gadgets News, Top News





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