Consumers today expect broadcast content to be available whenever, and wherever they want. Broadcasters are under increasing pressure to create and disseminate content in real-time and on-demand across an ever-growing number of platforms and formats. If they don’t, their competitors will.

In this environment, downtime is not an option, and reliable broadcast operations are a must. This article will explore the impact of broadcast outages and the resulting downtime and explain what to look for in a technology partner to prevent it. 

The Apple Watch is pretty accurate — at least for certain metrics.

A new University of Mississippi meta-analysis of 56 studies finds the Apple Watch delivers fairly accurate data for heart rate and step counts — but shows a much wider margin of error when it comes to calories burned.

In the year 2025, wearable tech is almost startlingly common. If you walk into any gym in the United States, chances are you’re going to see wrists adorned with some kind of fitness tracker or smartwatch.

And it makes sense, too. Whether you’re concerned about your health or just looking to dial in your workouts, wearing an Apple Watch — or any other fitness tracker — seems like an ideal way to do it.

But that begs the question — just how accurate are health trackers like the Apple Watch? That’s the exact question that University of Mississippi researchers set out to answer.

The Apple Watch knows how much you move, not how much you burn

The Ole Miss study analyzed data from 56 studies comparing the Apple Watch data to clinical reference tools. Researchers took factors like age, existing health conditions, device age, and activity into account.

And, as it turns out, the Apple Watch is, well, fairly accurate.

If you’re using yours to track your heart rate or step count, they’re quite accurate. The study found mean absolute percent errors, a standard measure of accuracy, of 4.43% for heart rate and 8.17% for step counts.

Energy, expenditure, on the other hand, was notably less accurate. The study showed that when it came to tracking calories burned, the Apple Watch was inaccurate nearly 28% of the time.

The energy expenditure inaccuracy was observed across all types of users and activities tested, including walking, running, cycling, and mixed-intensity workouts.

The Apple Watch remains a useful tool, not a diagnostic device

So you may be wondering if this means you should throw your Apple Watch into the trash. Obviously, it doesn’t.

University of Mississippi professor Minsoo Kang, who headed the study, still thinks these trackers have a place.

“These devices are great for keeping track of habits and staying motivated, but do not take every number as 100% truth, especially the calories,” he told Eureka Alert. “Think of it as a helpful guide, not a diagnostic tool. It is useful but not perfect.”

While they’re not perfect now, that doesn’t mean they’re not improving over time, either. Newer models of Apple Watch appear to be significantly more accurate than previous iterations.

“While we cannot say every update is a big leap forward, there is a noticeable trend of gradual improvements over time,” Doctoral student Ju-Pil Choe said. “It shows that Apple is refining the technology over time.”

Kang remains optimistic about the future of wearable tech. He hopes that the study can help users make informed decisions about purchasing wearable tech and that it could help inspire fitness tech creators to reexamine where devices fall short.

“By showing where the weaknesses are, we can help developers get real feedback,” he says “They know what needs to be fixed, they can design better sensors or algorithms.”

“Our findings can guide improvements and help make these devices more useful for both everyday users and health care providers.”

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• The Fitbit Charge 6 is normally priced at $160.
• This device helps minimize third-party distractions and notifications that other smartwatches may cause.
• Many forms of data are captured, like steps, sleep, and heart rate, to provide a comprehensive view of your daily activity. 

The Fitbit Charge 6 is currently on sale for $120 at Amazon. This deal applies to all three color options.

Smartwatches need to be charged at least every other day, and millions don’t want another device loaded with third-party apps and constant distractions on their wrist. The Fitbit Charge 6 offers a powerful wearable in a sleek form factor with a battery life that only requires a top-up once a week.

Also: The best smartwatches you can buy

With Google owning Fitbit, I see more Google integration in Fitbit devices. The Charge 6 includes support for playback controls of Google Music, Google Maps prompts on the tracker, and Google Wallet payment support. These features are provided in addition to the useful Fitbit functions, including detailed sleep tracking, EDA scans, Daily Readiness score, ECG measurements, step tracking, and an integrated GPS receiver for detailed outdoor tracking.

I wore a silver aluminum Fitbit Charge 6 with a porcelain band for a few weeks of testing, but the Charge 6 is also available in Black for $160. 

Looking at the hardware, Fitbit provides a lovely 26 x 21.8 mm AMOLED touchscreen color display. It is made with Corning Gorilla Glass, which looks superb and responds flawlessly to swipes and taps. The aluminum case surrounds the display and extends to the back heart rate sensor with nice curves and appealing aesthetics. The tracker is water resistant to 50m, so you can wear it 24/7 without worry.

The heart rate sensor on the back has greatly improved. Fitbit states that it is 60% more accurate during vigorous activities than older Fitbit devices. The sensor also supports ECG and EDA measurements to help detect heart rate irregularities and monitor stress.

Also: This midrange Android wearable outlasted my Galaxy Watch Ultra – and it’s on sale

The Fitbit Charge 6 also supports sharing your heart rate readings with some supported gym equipment, including treadmills, rowing machines, and bikes. Check out this Fitbit support site to see if this functionality supports your equipment. While the Fitbit Charge 6 is not listed on the official list, I tested it with my Hydrow rowing machine, which connected in seconds. With improved accuracy during activities and lots of movement, this is a nice capability if you don’t own an HR chest strap.

There’s a haptic button on the left side of the Charge 6. With this model, there is a designated target area to help you improve your accuracy in hitting it, and it is better than the no-button design that we saw on the Charge 5. I’m still more of a fan of a physical button, but I understand that for construction and water resistance, it is preferred to use a haptic button.

The Fitbit Charge 6 has an infinity silicone band, but there are plenty of other options, including sports bands, Horween leather bands, woven bands, hook/loop bands, and vegan leather bands, ranging from $30 to $50. Bands from the Charge 5 continue to work on the Charge 6, so if you want to upgrade after a couple of years, the Charge 6 is worth considering.

The software on the watch is easy to navigate, with swipes and taps providing access to key data and utilities. Google Maps works in combination with the app on your connected phone, so turns and other key information are presented on the Charge 6 while your phone remains in your pack. YouTube Music playback controls are supported for YouTube Premium subscribers, so you can store your phone away while exercising and still have control of your music.

Also: Finally, a budget smartwatch that’s just as durable as my Garmin (and it’s on sale)

Google Wallet works to support payments right from your wrist, but entering the PIN by scrolling up and down one digit at a time is a bit of a pain. Some work on making this easier is needed, or I will never use Google Wallet on the device.

Unlike a smartwatch and some past Fitbit devices, the Charge 6 does not have third-party apps available. However, Key Google, Fitbit, and basic clock utilities are provided on the watch and in the Fitbit app, so you can manage whether or not the apps appear on the Charge 6 as you navigate around the tracker. You can also customize nearly 30 watch faces.

The Charge 6 has an integrated GPS receiver, so you can run, walk, hike, and exercise outside without your phone. I tested this out for running and walking with an Apple Watch Ultra 2 on my other wrist and was very pleased with the accuracy of the GPS on the Charge 6. The Charge 6 supports GPS and GLONASS, while other watches typically support at least five global navigation satellite systems, so it will never be as accurate as dedicated GPS sports watches in challenging environments.

Also: Finally, I found an OLED sports watch that looks good and won’t break the bank

Google provides six months of free Fitbit Premium service with a Charge 6 purchase. Fitbit Premium is required for the Daily Readiness Score and other advanced features in the Fitbit application.

Compared to the Charge 5, I am very pleased to see the return of the floor’s climbed metric, improved heart rate sensor performance, side haptic button, and Google goodies (Wallet, Maps, and YouTube Music). The Charge 6 is also $20 less than the Charge 5’s launch price. The Fitbit Charge 6 is much better to sleep with than my larger smartwatches. Using the Charge 6 has me considering whether I need a full-size watch mounted on my wrist all the time.

ZDNET’s buying advice

While smartwatches are popular and often heavily promoted, having another device on your body that needs your attention may not be best for you and your mental health. 

Google offers the Fitbit Charge 6 as a device that captures key health and wellness data comfortably while minimizing the distractions of third-party apps and constant notifications. Sleeping with it on your wrist is very comfortable, and the data captured can be used to improve your health and lifestyle. 

Introduction

The global esports streaming platforms market is poised for significant growth, expected to reach USD 38.8 billion by 2034, up from USD 2.5 billion in 2024, growing at a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

This rapid expansion is driven by the increasing popularity of esports, the growing number of online viewers, and the emergence of new streaming technologies that enhance user engagement. The rise in the adoption of esports by both professional and casual players, as well as the growing investments in streaming platforms, are key contributors to this growth trajectory.

How Growth is Impacting the Economy

The growth of the esports streaming platforms market is having a profound impact on the global economy. The rise in esports viewership has opened new avenues for digital advertising, sponsorships, and content creation, which in turn drives economic activity in the entertainment and media sectors. Increased consumer engagement with esports platforms is fueling demand for high-quality streaming services, technological advancements in broadcasting, and associated industries like gaming hardware and cloud services.

Furthermore, the growing esports industry is creating job opportunities in content production, event management, and digital marketing, contributing to the broader digital economy. As global esports revenues continue to climb, the market also brings new investment opportunities, attracting venture capital and expanding digital infrastructure.

➤ Buy report here @ https://market.us/purchase-report/?report_id=149930

Impact on Global Businesses (Rising Costs & Supply Chain Shifts + Sector-Specific Impacts)

The rapid growth of the esports streaming market is shifting global business landscapes. Businesses in the entertainment and technology sectors are experiencing rising operational costs due to increased competition and the need to invest heavily in infrastructure to meet growing demand for high-quality streams.

The market’s demand for improved streaming quality and innovative technologies is prompting companies to invest in enhanced servers, network capacities, and cloud services, leading to a shift in supply chain dynamics. Esports streaming platforms are also under pressure to innovate continuously, driving higher costs in content creation, partnerships, and event organization. Moreover, businesses that rely on esports for marketing and brand positioning are being impacted by changes in consumer preferences and digital engagement.

Strategies for Businesses

To capitalize on the growth of esports streaming, businesses should prioritize strategic partnerships with esports organizations, content creators, and tech companies to expand their reach. Investing in technology to improve streaming quality, enhance user experiences, and integrate interactive features will help platforms stay competitive.

Additionally, monetizing esports content through diversified revenue streams such as subscriptions, advertising, sponsorships, and merchandise sales is key. Platforms should also focus on targeting global audiences by offering multilingual content and localized experiences to enhance viewer engagement and reach new markets. By staying at the forefront of technological innovations and leveraging social media for audience building, businesses can secure a prominent position in this rapidly growing market.

Key Takeaways

• The esports streaming market is set to grow at a CAGR of 31.5%.
• North America currently holds a dominant market share, capturing over 33.4% of the revenue.
• Businesses must invest in infrastructure and technology to keep up with increasing demand.
• Esports platforms are diversifying revenue streams through advertising, sponsorships, and subscriptions.
• Strategic partnerships with key players in the esports ecosystem are essential for growth.

➤ Request sample here @ https://market.us/report/esports-streaming-platforms-market/free-sample/

Analyst Viewpoint (Present + Future Positive View)

The esports streaming platforms market is experiencing remarkable growth, with the current demand for high-quality content and improved user engagement driving strong market performance. Looking ahead, the outlook remains exceptionally positive as the global esports audience expands and streaming technologies continue to advance. The convergence of esports with traditional sports and media will provide ample opportunities for businesses to tap into new markets, foster innovation, and create lasting consumer engagement. As the sector matures, esports streaming platforms are poised to become central to the global entertainment landscape.

Regional Analysis

North America leads the esports streaming market, accounting for over 33.4% of the revenue in 2024, valued at USD 0.8 billion. The region benefits from strong infrastructure, high levels of internet penetration, and significant investments in gaming and digital entertainment. Europe is also witnessing rapid growth, with a rising number of esports events, tournaments, and streaming platforms attracting significant viewership. Asia-Pacific, particularly countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, are major esports hubs, contributing to the region’s growth. Other regions, including Latin America and the Middle East, are emerging as important markets for esports streaming due to increasing mobile gaming adoption and internet access expansion.

➤ Discover More Trending Research

Business Opportunities

The explosive growth of esports streaming presents numerous business opportunities. Companies can tap into the market by offering specialized streaming services tailored to esports events, providing high-quality broadcasting technology, and creating immersive viewing experiences using virtual and augmented reality.

Moreover, expanding content offerings through localized channels and regional partnerships will help businesses reach a wider global audience. Digital advertising and sponsorship opportunities are another avenue for revenue generation, especially as esports continues to attract a younger, tech-savvy audience. Additionally, companies can explore esports-related merchandise, gaming peripherals, and event management services to further diversify revenue streams.

Key Segmentation

Platform

• OTT Platforms – 40%
• Traditional Broadcasting – 30%
• Social Media Platforms – 30%

End-User

• Viewers – 70%
• Content Creators – 20%
• Advertisers – 10%

Revenue Model

• Subscription-Based – 50%
• Advertising-Based – 30%
• Pay-Per-View – 20%

Key Player Analysis

Leading players in the esports streaming platforms market are focusing on expanding their service offerings through collaborations with gaming companies, content creators, and technology providers. These platforms are investing in cutting-edge streaming technology, interactive features, and user-friendly interfaces to enhance viewer engagement.

Additionally, the rise in esports events and tournaments is fostering growth in sponsorships, while the increasing trend of mobile esports viewing is prompting companies to develop mobile-optimized platforms. By offering global content and investing in localized experiences, these players are expanding their market presence and capturing new audiences across diverse regions.

• Tencent Holding Limited
• Nintendo of America Inc.
• Valve Corporation
• Activision Blizzard, Inc.
• Electronic Arts Inc.
• Gameloft SE
• Modern Times Group (MTG)
• Gfinity plc
• Allied Esports
• Take-Two Interactive
• Huya
• Fragbite Group
• Others

Recent Developments

• In January 2025, a major esports streaming platform launched a new cloud-based solution to improve streaming quality for global events.
• In March 2025, a streaming service integrated AI-based features for personalized content recommendations to enhance viewer engagement.
• In April 2025, an esports streaming company secured a multi-million-dollar deal with a gaming brand for exclusive tournament broadcasting rights.
• In May 2025, a platform expanded into Latin America, offering region-specific content to cater to local esports fans.
• In June 2025, a major esports league partnered with a streaming service to offer enhanced interactive features and real-time stats.

Conclusion

The esports streaming platforms market is poised for significant growth, driven by an expanding global audience and advancements in streaming technology. Businesses that invest in innovative content, strategic partnerships, and global expansion will be well-positioned to capitalize on this booming industry. As esports continues to evolve, platforms that offer immersive, personalized experiences will lead the charge in shaping the future of entertainment.

Discuss your needs with our analyst

Please share your requirements with more details so our analyst can check if they can solve your problem(s)

iFIT’s content deal with the well-known boutique fitness and wellness franchisor brings classes from the top-performing Club Pilates and fast-growing YogaSix to its platform

iFIT, whose portfolio includes fitness equipment brands NordicTrack, ProForm and Freemotion, is expanding its digital offerings with studio-quality content from Club Pilates and YogaSix through a new partnership with Xponential Fitness.

The move gives iFIT’s more than six million members access to Pilates and yoga classes from two of Xponential’s most prominent brands, advancing its mission to provide more holistic, accessible wellness options. Notably, Pilates appears to be an area of interest for the fitness tech leader, having recently acquired Reform RX, a high-end reformer brand known for its commercial and at-home equipment.

“We’re incredibly excited to bring the Club Pilates and YogaSix experiences to our athletes,” iFIT chief subscription officer Jeremy McCarty said. “As a leader in connected fitness, we’re constantly evolving to meet the needs of our athletes. With this partnership, our athletes now get access to a broader range of fitness content—all included as part of their iFIT membership.”

To promote the collaboration, iFIT is launching a new challenge in which eligible members who complete the program will receive an in-studio Club Pilates intro class pass and be entered for a chance to win a one-year membership to either Club Pilates or YogaSix.

“This partnership with iFIT, a pioneer in connected fitness, allows us to bring our world-class content to a wider audience than ever before,” Xponential‘s EVP of strategic partnerships Steve Pankowski said. “By leveraging iFIT’s innovative platform and expansive global reach, we’re proud to introduce the transformative experiences of Club Pilates and YogaSix to millions of members around the world in a truly immersive, digital-first way.”

See Also

The move follows iFIT’s beta launch of its AI Coach to 19 countries, providing real-time, personalized training plans that adapt to users’ goals, routines and performance data. iFIT is also taking a swing with golf fitness, as seen with its new partnership with Arcis Golf, which operates 70 private, resort and public courses across the U.S. The deal brings game-enhancing content on iFIT-enabled equipment and mobile devices, including golf-specific workouts and performance training.