BENGALURU, India, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — European College of Sport and Exercise Physicians (ECOSEP) and Tata Elxsi have announced a strategic partnership that aims to revolutionise the field of sports and exercise medicine through combining the research excellence and clinical expertise of ECOSEP with Tata Elxsi’s AI- and machine learning–driven healthcare solutions and technology capabilities.

The partnership will focus on applying artificial intelligence technologies in areas such as advanced diagnostic tools, personalised treatment plans, predictive analytics for injury prevention, and real-time monitoring of athletes’ physical conditions.

This innovative collaboration was initiated by Dr. Pakravan, Vice Chair of ECOSEP, and facilitated by Dr. Malliaropoulos, General Secretary.  Speaking on behalf of ECOSEP, Prof. Nicola Maffulli, President, stated: “These are exciting times for how technology and medical science can be brought together to transform personalised care in sports. The long-term vision of Tata Elxsi marries with the aim of ECOSEP to develop and maintain 360° care for athletes and physically active individuals. With the power of Tata Elxsi, ECOSEP shall develop comprehensive packages of care which will help to optimise performance and health. This is a unique opportunity for mutual collaboration, marrying disciplines only apparently different, and allowing close interaction of professionals.”

Anup SS, Practice Head – AI and Machine Learning at Tata Elxsi, added: “This collaboration with ECOSEP represents an exciting opportunity to apply AI in ways that directly impact athlete health and performance. By combining clinical insight with advanced data science, we aim to co-create intelligent tools that support early diagnosis, enable real-time decision-making, and personalise care for every athlete. Together, we’re paving the way for a new era in sports medicine—one that is smarter, faster, and more human-centric.”

The collaboration serves as a stepping stone for future interdisciplinary partnerships aimed at expanding the use of AI in sports and musculoskeletal medicine, and both organisations are committed to advancing the field through research, clinical trials, and the development of AI-driven tools that offer athletes and healthcare providers ground-breaking solutions to achieve optimal outcomes.

Tata Elxsi will join the 9th ECOSEP Congress in Düsseldorf in November 2025 to engage with the clinical community, share early insights, and explore opportunities for collaborative research and innovation.

About Tata Elxsi

Tata Elxsi is a global design and technology services company headquartered in Bangalore. It addresses the healthcare, automotive, broadcast, and communications consumer electronics industries. This is supported by a network of design studios, development centres, and offices worldwide. Tata Elxsi’s Healthcare & Life Sciences practice is ISO 13485 certified and collaborates with prominent medical device and pharmaceutical OEMs, as well as technology companies. With a comprehensive services and solutions portfolio, Tata Elxsi adds value at every stage of the customer’s product development lifecycle. Recognised as a leader in technology consulting, new product design, development, verification & validation, as well as regulatory compliance services, Tata Elxsi is a trusted name in the industry.

For more information, visit www.tataelxsi.com

About ECOSEP

European College of Sports and Exercise Physicians (ECOSEP) is a non-profit scientific medical society dedicated to Sports Medicine and Sports Physicians in Europe, with extensive international links and collaborations with other similar specialist societies across the world. The mission of the College is to advance competencies of sports physicians and promote highest standards of specialist care through providing continuing education, research, collaboration with other sports medicine organizations, promoting physical activity and population health, and serving as a source of information to the public. The membership and extensive international reach of ECOSEP puts the College in a unique position to achieve these goals and make an impact on current practice as well as future of the Sport and Exercise Medicine specialty.

For more information and also to learn more about our highly popular biennial congresses please visit: https://ecosep.eu/

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/742257/Tata_Elxsi_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Tata Elxsi

HONG KONG, May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (“NetDragon” or the “Company”; Hong Kong Stock Code: 0777), a global leader in building internet communities, is pleased to announce its participation in the 8th Digital China Summit, recently held in Fuzhou, Fujian Province. As a participant for the eighth consecutive year, NetDragon showcased its latest advancements under its core strategies of “AI + Gaming” and “AI + Education.” By responding to the “Digital China” strategy, NetDragon continues to leverage AI to empower the gaming, cultural tourism, and education industries, contributing to the high-quality development of the digital economy.

At the summit, NetDragon demonstrated the integration of technology and culture through innovative digital cultural-tourism projects. Among the highlights was the “Fantasy Ride Wuyi•Nine-Bend Roaming” VR horse-riding simulator, which utilizes cutting-edge digital scanning, drone technology, 3D modeling, and Unreal Engine technology to recreate the iconic landscapes of Wuyi Mountain, including Nine-Bend Stream and Dawang Peak. This immersive VR experience allows visitors to explore the scenic beauty of the ancient Tea Route. This project is also part of the “Digital Shanhai: Reimagining Fujian Tourism through Games” initiative, co-launched with Xinhua News and Information Center and other partners, to promote Fujian’s tourism through gamification. Additionally, NetDragon introduced “Fubao,” an AI-powered digital character representing Fujian’s “Fu (Fortune)” culture. Fubao, along with the Company’s virtual CEO Tang Yu, made their debut as “AI tourism ambassadors,” engaging attendees in real-time Q&A about Fujian’s tourism attractions and unique culture. This demonstration underscores NetDragon’s expertise in AI-driven content generation and gamified interactive experiences, creating value through the synergy of gaming and cultural tourism.

In the education sector, NetDragon unveiled its vision for future learning with the intelligent education service institution EDA and the self-learning tool “Future Lab,” reinforcing its vision of a personalized, global learning ecosystem. EDA leverages advanced AI technologies to deliver customized learning experiences, spanning across the full spectrum of lifelong learning. “Future Lab,” as part of the EDA ecosystem, aims to provide immersive learning experiences for middle and high school students in subjects such as math, physics, and chemistry. NetDragon is also advancing the development of “interactive educational games” that prioritize learner-driven engagement and immersive learning, redefining traditional teaching methodologies, and enriching EDA with high-quality content.

In recent years, NetDragon has advanced its strategy of integrating education and industry by expanding its vocational education efforts internationally and nurturing eSports talent. During the summit, NetDragon co-hosted a China–Thailand collegiate eSports friendship match with Fuzhou Software Technology Vocational College (FSTVC), providing a platform for cultural exchange while demonstrating NetDragon’s innovative approach to exporting vocational education services. Through its industry-education integration model and joint programs, FSTVC is exploring new revenue streams. Notably, NetDragon’s vocational education project in Thailand was included in the “Thousand Sails Going Global” initiative in 2024, led by China’s Ministry of Commerce together with five other ministries, marking a significant milestone in the Company’s global industry-education integration efforts.

In collaboration with Rokid, NetDragon also showcased its AI + AR innovations at the summit. By integrating “Fubao” into Rokid’s AR glasses, attendees were able to explore virtual experiences of Wuyi Mountain, digital art galleries, and polar molecular structures. Rokid, a key strategic investment project of NetDragon, specializes in developing AR hardware and software ecosystems. NetDragon is building an “AI + AR” content ecosystem, leveraging AR applications across gaming, education, and tourism to create immersive digital experiences.

As part of its ongoing commitment to the “Digital China” initiative, NetDragon continues to expand its “Digital Smart+” innovation approach, promoting the integration of digital technologies across the economic, cultural, social, and ecological development. Looking ahead, NetDragon is committed to working with global partners in education, cultural tourism, and digital creativity to drive further growth in the digital economy and contribute to the development of new digital economic advantages.

About NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited 

NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) is a global leader in building internet communities with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users, including previous establishments of China’s first online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China’s most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless.  

Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known online game developers in China with a history of successful game titles including Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved, Conquer Online and Under Oath. In the past 10 years, NetDragon has also achieved success with its online education business both domestically and globally, and its overseas education business entity, currently a U.S.-listed subsidiary named Mynd.ai, is a global leader in interactive technology and its award-winning interactive displays and software can be found in more than 1 million learning and training spaces across 126 countries. 

For investor enquiries, please contact:
NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
Ms. Maggie ZhouSenior Director of Investor Relations
Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] 
Website: ir.netdragon.com   

SOURCE NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited

With the TATA IPL turning 18 this season, JioStar is looking to take things to the next level. The tournament, now at a crucial phase, features more than 170 experts. It is being broadcast across 25+ feeds in 12 languages, reaching fans via both linear TV and digital platforms.

Medianews4u.com caught up with Prashant Khanna, Head – Production Services, Studios & Production Tech – Sports, JioStar.

How does technology help build an emotional connection in sports content?

Technology is the invisible infrastructure of the fan experience. It allows us to scale emotions—turning a match into a cultural moment. Like air, it surrounds everything we do without drawing attention to itself, yet it powers every aspect of the experience.

Tell us about the R&D behind innovations like MaxView and HeroCam.

We approach innovation from a fan-first perspective. With MaxView, we reimagined how cricket could be consumed vertically on mobile. We conducted eye-tracking studies to understand user attention zones, then rebuilt our graphics and camera strategies accordingly. The result was an immersive, one-to-one experience—where it feels like the player is performing just for you.

Fans can now simply swipe up while watching a match to catch all the key moments in short-form clips—just keep swiping to skim through the action. A single tap brings you back to the live game instantly. Want more control over how you watch? Swipe left to explore multiple camera angles of the live match, making the viewing experience more dynamic and personalized than ever before.

How did you manage the scale-up for JioHotstar ahead of the IPL launch?

We treated the merger as an opportunity, not a constraint. Between November and March, we delivered the ICC Champions Trophy while simultaneously preparing for the IPL.

We brought together the best of both teams to scale from 12–14 feeds to over 25, including VR, MaxView, sign language, kids’ content, and hangout feeds. It was ambitious but achievable—thanks to shared experience and visionary leadership.

What’s the strategic intent behind expanding into feeds like kids’ or sign language?

We’re building experiences for every member of the family. One match now serves multiple audiences—kids, data geeks, regional fans, casual viewers. From interactive IPs like Motu Patlu to analytical and entertainment-led commentary, our goal is to personalize the game without changing the game itself. The sign language feed, for example, was created to make the sport more inclusive for our fans with determination.

Will these innovations be extended to non-cricket properties?

Absolutely. We’re working to democratize technology across sports. Our partnership with IICT and StarLab enables us to scale features like sign language and interactive kids’ feeds to formats like kabaddi, football, and tier-two cricket.

What went into making PKL more modern and relevant?

We transitioned kabaddi from ‘mud to mat’ by building visual storytelling around its natural strengths. It’s fast, unpredictable, and hero-driven. Our camera setup is designed to capture every angle of this intensity, ensuring fans never miss a moment.

What was your production strategy for the Olympics?

We used digital to solve Olympic complexity. Fans could watch multiple events simultaneously, easily track Indian athletes, and explore niche sports like fencing or judo. It was about accessibility and designing a smart UI to guide diverse audiences.

What are your production priorities for the year ahead?

We’re focused on deepening fan-centric innovation. StarLab will serve as an R&D accelerator, helping us evolve through partnerships with startups and tech giants. Our goal is to study what worked, amplify it, and build the next big leap—across all sports, not just cricket.

Will your innovation efforts include non-cricket sports like the Premier League?

Yes. For the Premier League, we’re already running remote commentary in Bangla and Malayalam. Our aim is segmented delivery—serving hyper-local, hyper-relevant content to fans wherever they are.

How is AI being used across your production pipeline?

AI plays a role at every stage—from robotic cameras during capture to generating real-time highlights and multilingual voice cloning.

For example, Steve Smith speaking in Hindi is powered by AI. It helps us deliver more inclusive content without compromising quality or speed.

How are you innovating around advertising within sports broadcasts?

While contractual rights limit on-field integrations, digital gives us more flexibility. AdTech enables segmented, contextual targeting.

A kids’ stream shows kid-friendly ads; a tennis fan might see premium lifestyle brands. We match content, audience, and advertiser to create value for all.

Is there a priority between digital and linear broadcast?

We’re platform-agnostic. If a fan is on TV, we meet them there. If they’re on mobile or OTT, we deliver accordingly. Our responsibility is to serve fans—not chase formats.

What’s JioStar’s role at IICT?

At JioStar, we’re thrilled to support the Indian Institute of Creative Technology’s (IICT) mission to build a global center of excellence for media innovation.

The IICT launch at WAVES 2025 reflects a broader movement to position India as a global creative powerhouse. Through StarLab, we’re helping co-develop future-ready skills, tools, and platforms that will empower the next generation of creators and storytellers.

 Is AI helping manage costs?

Cost isn’t the primary filter—fan experience is. If a technology enhances the viewer experience, we invest in it. AI does help with efficiency, but that’s a byproduct, not the driver.

 How will sport tech help scale emerging sports like eSports, padel, or pickleball?

Technology is lowering the entry barrier. We can now broadcast games using just mobile phones and basic internet.

That means emerging sports don’t need massive budgets to reach fans—they just need the right tech stack.

Are you investing in sport-tech startups?

Through StarLab, yes. We’re incubating, hosting hackathons, and forging strategic partnerships to integrate disruptive technologies into our ecosystem. Startups are a rich source of next-gen ideas.

How crucial is deep analytics to storytelling in sports?

Incredibly crucial. Predictive analytics allows us to craft narratives in advance—not just react to the game. It turns data into drama, helping fans feel smarter without making the content feel technical.

What are the learnings for JioStar from events like the Super Bowl and EPL?

JioStar is on par with global benchmarks like the Super Bowl and EPL, thanks to precision planning, cutting-edge tech, immersive fan engagement, robust infrastructure, omnichannel delivery, hyper-local storytelling, and a collaborative innovation mindset.

Report Overview

The global sports app market is undergoing a robust transformation, with its size projected to reach approximately USD 13.1 billion by 2034, rising from USD 4.77 billion in 2024. This promising growth reflects a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.6% between 2025 and 2034.

In 2024, North America remained the leading regional contributor, accounting for more than 36% of the global market share, with revenue generation of around USD 1.71 billion. Within this region, the United States alone was valued at approximately USD 1.62 billion, and the market is forecasted to advance at a CAGR of 8.4% over the coming decade.

Key factors propelling this market include the rising focus on health and wellness, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning for personalized workout plans, and the growing popularity of live sports streaming and real-time score tracking. The demand for sports apps is further bolstered by the increasing use of wearable fitness technology, which allows for real-time performance monitoring and enhanced user engagement.

Sports apps provide several benefits, including personalized fitness plans, real-time game updates, and community interaction. These features help users manage health goals, stay updated on their favorite teams, and connect with others. By offering expert advice and structured programs, these apps democratize fitness and sports knowledge, making it accessible to a wider audience.

The intersection of sports and technology offers opportunities for innovation, including virtual reality, gamification, and social media integration to boost engagement. Expanding into underserved markets and developing niche apps can drive growth, while collaborations with sports organizations and influencers can enhance reach and credibility.

Developers and companies are undertaking various initiatives to enhance the functionality and appeal of sports apps. These efforts include advanced performance analytics, multilingual support, and strong data privacy. There’s also a focus on creating inclusive platforms for users of all abilities and fitness levels, fostering a more equitable sports environment.

As reported by Market.us, The global Esports market is poised for substantial expansion, with its value projected to reach approximately USD 16.7 billion by 2033, up sharply from USD 2.3 billion in 2023. This growth reflects a strong CAGR of 21.9% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2033, driven by the increasing global acceptance of competitive gaming, rising investments from sponsors and media, and the growing popularity of esports as mainstream entertainment.

The sports app market is poised for continued expansion, fueled by technological advancements and increasing global interest in health and fitness. Strategic partnerships, R&D investment, and user feedback are key to sustaining growth. As the market evolves, sports apps are set to become essential tools in shaping the future of sports consumption and participation in the digital age.

Key Takeaways

• The Global Sports App Market size is projected to reach USD 13.1 Billion by 2034, growing from USD 4.77 Billion in 2024, at a CAGR of 10.60% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
• In 2024, the Apple iOS Store segment held a dominant market position, accounting for more than 58% of the global sports app market share.
• In 2024, North America held a dominant market position, with over 36% of the global sports app market share, generating approximately USD 1.71 billion in revenue.
• The U.S. Sports App market was valued at USD 1.62 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4%, driven by the increasing popularity of mobile platforms for sports content.

Analysts’ Viewpoint

Investment opportunities in the sports app market are abundant, particularly in areas focusing on AI integration, wearable technology, and immersive user experiences. The market’s growth potential is attracting significant venture capital, with investments in sports startups reaching $880 million in 2024, highlighting the sector’s appeal to investors.

Businesses operating in the sports app market can reap numerous benefits, including increased user engagement, diversified revenue streams through subscription models and in-app purchases, and enhanced brand loyalty. The ability to offer personalized and interactive experiences positions these businesses to capitalize on the growing consumer demand for digital fitness solutions.

The regulatory environment for sports apps, particularly those involving betting functionalities, is becoming increasingly stringent. Compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations is mandatory, ensuring secure and responsible usage. Additionally, data protection laws require apps to safeguard user information, emphasizing the importance of privacy and security in app development.

Business Benefits

Sports apps streamline communication and administrative tasks within sports organizations. Coaches and team members can coordinate schedules, share updates, and manage logistics seamlessly through the app. According to the Mobile Sports Apps Survey, user satisfaction soars when social features are in play, 65% of active users say they enjoy the app more when they can connect and interact with peers directly within it.

In a saturated market, having a dedicated sports app sets an organization apart from competitors. It demonstrates a commitment to innovation and meeting fan expectations in the digital age. This technological edge can attract new users and retain existing ones, solidifying the organization’s position in the industry.

According to the MoldStud article, Sports apps that integrate live score updates, gamification, and social sharing see significant increases in user activity. Incorporating gamified elements can lead to up to a 30% increase in user participation. This ongoing engagement builds emotional bonds and loyalty through personalized and immersive experiences.

Impact Of AI

• Personalized Fan Experiences: AI allows sports apps to personalize content, offering tailored clips and narratives based on user preferences. This strategy targets younger audiences who prefer streaming and customized experiences.
• Enhanced Athlete Performance and Injury Prevention: AI analyzes data from wearables and other sources to monitor athletes’ physical conditions. This analysis helps in optimizing training programs and preventing injuries.
• Strategic Game Planning: AI helps coaches create effective game strategies by analyzing large datasets. For example, an AI system can recommend optimal player positioning during corner kicks.
• Automated Content Creation:AI automates sports content creation, such as game recaps and highlight reels. It can automatically generate game summaries from box scores, streamlining content production for college sports.
• Enhanced Fantasy Sports Engagement: AI enhances fantasy sports platforms by providing real-time analytics and predictions. Deep learning models analyze player performance data to offer insights, helping users make informed decisions in fantasy leagues.

U.S. Sports App Market

In 2024, the U.S. Sports App market reached a valuation of USD 1.62 billion, reflecting the increasing popularity of mobile platforms as key channels for engaging with sports content. Growth is fueled by digital transformation in sports and entertainment, as consumers increasingly use mobile apps for live scores, fantasy sports, stats, tickets, merchandise, and fan engagement.

The market is projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.4% during the forecast period, indicating a robust and steady demand trajectory. Momentum is driven by smartphone growth, fast internet, and demand for mobile sports updates and streaming. Fantasy leagues, betting, and gamified features boost engagement, while leagues invest in apps for direct fan interaction and exclusive content.

Moreover, the growth of the U.S. Sports App market is being supported by collaborations between tech developers, media companies, and sports organizations. These partnerships have introduced advanced mobile features like AR stadium tours and voice assistants, transforming sports apps from simple scoreboards into all-in-one digital fan companions reshaping how Americans engage with sports.

In 2024, North America held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 36% share of the global Sports App market and generating approximately USD 1.71 billion in revenue. This leadership is largely attributed to the region’s deeply rooted sports culture, widespread smartphone adoption, and the increasing reliance on digital platforms for real-time sports engagement.

North America’s sports app dominance is fueled by strong consumer demand for premium content and the rapid growth of in-app betting, enabled by legal reforms. Industry leaders like ESPN and FanDuel are redefining fan engagement through integrated data, betting, and tech-driven features like AI content, AR visuals, and voice updates.

Another major factor contributing to North America’s lead is the highly developed digital infrastructure and robust investments in sports tech innovation. The presence of top-tier mobile app developers, advanced analytics providers, and a growing ecosystem of startups focused on sports engagement have fostered a favorable environment for continuous app evolution.

North America’s technological maturity, consumer readiness, and strong support from sports leagues maintain its leadership in the global sports app market. The region is expected to retain its dominance in the coming years, driven by 5G connectivity and the rise of cross-platform media consumption, which will further enhance mobile sports interactions.

Platform Analysis

In 2024, Apple iOS Store segment held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 58% share in the global sports app market. This leadership can be attributed to the high concentration of premium users on the iOS ecosystem, who are more inclined to spend on app subscriptions, fitness plans, and in-app purchases.

A major strength of the Apple iOS Store is its seamless integration with Apple’s hardware ecosystem, particularly the Apple Watch and HealthKit. This allows iOS sports apps to offer effective fitness tracking, performance monitoring, and real-time health insights, with smooth syncing across iPhone, Apple Watch, and other devices for enhanced workout logging, step tracking, and heart rate analysis.

Moreover, iOS users are typically more engaged in wellness and fitness activities, with a higher likelihood of adopting personalized workout apps, live sports streaming platforms, and gamified training apps. This behavior provides a fertile ground for sports app developers targeting a health-conscious and tech-savvy audience.

Additionally, Apple continues to invest in developer tools, subscription monetization models, and health-focused innovations that further support the growth of sports applications. With the launch of new APIs and features related to augmented reality, fitness tracking, and biometric data, iOS apps can continue to differentiate themselves and offer immersive experiences.

Key Market Segments

By Platform

• Apple iOS Store
• Google Play Store

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Singapore
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Driver

Rising Smartphone Penetration and Digital Engagement

The global rise of smartphones has significantly boosted the adoption of sports apps, especially in North America. As mobile device use becomes more widespread, sports fans increasingly turn to apps for real-time updates, live streaming, fitness tracking, and interactive features.

High-speed internet and advanced mobile technologies have further improved the user experience, driving higher app downloads and engagement. The rise of esports and virtual sports has expanded sports apps to attract gamers and non-traditional sports fans.

Additionally, digital payment systems have simplified in-app transactions, boosting user retention. The growing smartphone penetration, along with advances in mobile technology and digital payments, has fueled the sports app market’s growth, a trend expected to continue as technology evolves and user preferences shift towards more interactive experiences.

Restraint

Data Privacy Concerns and Regulatory Challenges

The growth of the sports app market faces challenges from data privacy concerns. Users and regulators are wary of personal data collection, with incidents of breaches and unauthorized sharing eroding trust. The increasing use of biometric data through wearables adds further privacy risks, prompting regulators to call for stronger data protection measures.

Navigating overlapping privacy laws, like HIPAA and state regulations, complicates compliance for app developers. Non-compliance can lead to legal issues and harm brand reputation. In conclusion, data privacy concerns and regulatory challenges are key restraints on the sports app market, making transparent data practices and strong security measures essential for maintaining user trust and growth.

Opportunity

Integration with Wearable Technology

The integration of sports apps with wearable technology presents significant market growth opportunities. Wearables like fitness trackers and smartwatches enable real-time data collection, enhancing user engagement with features such as heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and personalized workout plans. This integration improves user experience and provides valuable data for ongoing app enhancement.

The fusion of fitness apps, wearables, and AI is creating a more connected and personalized wellness experience. This synergy enables innovative features like biometric nutrition plans and virtual fitness communities, broadening the scope of sports apps. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of wearable technology with sports apps is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the market, driving innovation and enhancing user engagement.

Challenge

User Retention and Engagement

Despite a growing user base, sports app developers face challenges in user retention and engagement. High churn rates suggest users abandon apps quickly, often due to factors like lack of engaging content, poor user experience, and aggressive monetization. To retain users, apps must offer immersive, personalized experiences and consistently fresh content.

To address retention challenges, some apps have introduced loyalty programs and gamification, like CBS Sports, which has optimized user acquisition channels to boost retention. These strategies enhance engagement by offering incentives and a sense of achievement. However, implementing such tactics demands significant resources, ongoing innovation, and careful balance between personalization and privacy to ensure user comfort.

Emerging Trends

Several key trends are shaping the development of sports apps, with AI playing a central role. It is being integrated to provide personalized content, real-time statistics, and predictive analytics, offering users tailored updates and insights. These features enhance engagement and satisfaction by delivering detailed performance metrics and game predictions, enriching fans’ understanding of the sport.

Sports apps are increasingly compatible with wearable devices, allowing users to track their fitness metrics and receive health insights. This integration supports users in monitoring their physical activities, setting goals, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, thereby extending the app’s utility beyond mere entertainment.

Gamified elements, such as leaderboards, achievements, and fantasy leagues, are being incorporated to boost user engagement. These features encourage regular interaction with the app, fostering a sense of competition and community among users.

Key Player Analysis

NBC Universal stands out as a key player in the sports app market, primarily due to its robust media portfolio, including the Olympic Games, NFL, and Premier League broadcasts. Their sports app, Peacock, allows users to access live sports events, exclusive content, and on-demand features. NBC’s established reputation in broadcasting, combined with its powerful streaming platform, makes it a formidable force.

Warner Media, now part of the newly formed Warner Bros. Discovery, has made significant strides in sports streaming with its platform, Max. Warner Media holds exclusive broadcasting rights to major leagues like the NBA, MLB, and NCAA. Their sports app offers live broadcasts, replays, and original content, leveraging strong league relationships and global reach to attract a wide user base.

PENN Entertainment has recently become a major player in sports streaming, largely thanks to its acquisition of Barstool Sports. PENN integrates sports betting with live streaming through its app, creating a unique offering. With partnerships with major sports leagues, it taps into the growing demand for interactive experiences, positioning itself as a distinct player in the market.

Top Key Players in the Market

• NBC Universal
• Warner Media
• PENN Entertainment
• ESPN
• Viacom18 (JioCinema)
• Sky UK
• SuperSport
• LiveScore
• beIN SPORTS
• DAZN
• Fubo TV
• Others

Top Opportunities for Players

• Personalized User Experiences Through AI: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is enabling sports apps to offer tailored content, enhancing user engagement. By analyzing user behavior and preferences, apps can provide customized notifications, content recommendations, and interactive features. This personalization fosters deeper user involvement and loyalty.
• Integration of Wearable Technology: The adoption of wearable devices is transforming how users interact with sports apps. Integration with wearables allows for real-time health and performance tracking, offering users insights into their physical activities. This synergy between hardware and software enhances the utility and appeal of sports applications.
• Expansion into Emerging Markets: Emerging economies are witnessing a surge in smartphone penetration and internet accessibility, creating fertile ground for sports app growth. Localized content and language support can help apps resonate with diverse user bases, tapping into previously underrepresented markets.
• Diversification into E-sports and Fantasy Leagues: The rising popularity of e-sports and fantasy sports leagues offers avenues for sports apps to diversify their offerings. By incorporating features that cater to these segments, apps can attract a broader audience and create additional revenue streams through in-app purchases and advertising.
• Enhanced Fan Engagement Through Interactive Features: Interactive elements such as live polls, quizzes, and social sharing options are becoming integral to sports apps. These features not only increase user engagement during live events but also foster a sense of community among users, encouraging repeat usage and brand loyalty.

Recent Developments

• In February 2024, ESPN, FOX, and Warner Bros. Discovery announced plans to form a joint venture to launch a new streaming sports service in the U.S. This service is scheduled to debut in the fall of 2024 and will be available directly to consumers via a new app.
• In December 2024, DAZN announced the acquisition of Foxtel Group, a leading Australian sports and entertainment media company, for $3.4 billion. This deal aims to leverage DAZN’s global scale and technology to enhance Foxtel’s offerings.

Report Scope

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Ink’d Stores has carved out a niche as an agile, customer-focused provider of corporate swag, promotional products, and apparel. But the road to success wasn’t a straight path, especially for Jay Sapovits, the visionary president of Ink’d, whose entrepreneurial spirit and ability to pivot have defined his career.

Sapovits’ background is anything but conventional. From radio host to private jet sales executive to real estate entrepreneur in St. Barths, he has always thrived in dynamic environments. His latest success, Ink’d Stores, came out of a failed fitness brand, proving that failure is just another step toward innovation.

A Business Pivot That Paid Off

In 2012, Sapovits was at the helm of a fitness business that focused on sports-branded workout gear—a concept that seemed like a guaranteed success. With major deals secured with Fanatics, Amazon, and Kohl’s, the company had momentum. But retail sell-through rates lagged, leaving products sitting on shelves for far too long.

A pivotal moment came in Las Vegas at the PPAI trade show, where a chance encounter with Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing technology sparked a new vision. Instead of fitness gear, why not focus on what people actually buy in volume—customized apparel and promotional products? From that insight, Ink’d Stores was born.

The Northeast’s One-Stop Custom Merchandise Solution

Since its inception, Ink’d Stores has grown into a multimillion-dollar operation that serves companies of all sizes, including those in the rising cannabis industry. With a Boston-based headquarters and production facility, the company specializes in:

• Branded merchandise and promotional swag
• Custom web stores for companies
• On-demand printing for events and businesses
• Corporate welcome kits and gift boxes

Ink’d Stores offers an all-in-one, risk-free model, meaning businesses can set up custom merch shops with no upfront costs or monthly fees—a game-changer for cannabis startups and multi-state operators (MSOs) that want low-barrier access to quality branding materials.

Supporting the Cannabis Industry in the Northeast

With cannabis legalization sweeping the Northeast, companies in the industry are prioritizing branding and marketing to differentiate themselves in an increasingly crowded market. Ink’d Stores is now a valuable partner to many brands, providing custom-branded merchandise that helps dispensaries, cultivators, and ancillary businesses establish their corporate identity.

From dispensary staff uniforms to limited-edition swag drops, Ink’d has worked with cannabis businesses to create high-quality, customized merchandise that builds brand loyalty. According to Sapovitz, the company’s fast turnaround times and creative in-house design team make it an attractive choice for cannabis brands that need both quality and efficiency.

Also Read: Exploring The Science of Bigger Buds with Big Mike of Advanced Nutrients

Innovation, Adaptation, and the Future of Ink’d Stores

Sapovits’ forward-thinking approach doesn’t stop at custom merchandise. In 2021, Ink’d became one of the first custom swag companies to accept cryptocurrency payments, a reflection of Sapovits’ belief in blockchain technology’s future role in commerce.

As Ink’d Stores celebrates its ninth anniversary, it’s clear that its success is rooted in innovation, adaptability, and satisfaction. Whether serving Northeast cannabis brands or major corporate clients, Ink’d has positioned itself as a leader in the branded merchandise space—proof that the right pivot can turn failure into a multimillion-dollar success story.

HONG KONG, May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (“NetDragon” or the “Company”; Hong Kong Stock Code: 0777), a global leader in building internet communities, is pleased to announce its participation in the 8th Digital China Summit, recently held in Fuzhou, Fujian Province. As a participant for the eighth consecutive year, NetDragon showcased its latest advancements under its core strategies of “AI + Gaming” and “AI + Education.” By responding to the “Digital China” strategy, NetDragon continues to leverage AI to empower the gaming, cultural tourism, and education industries, contributing to the high-quality development of the digital economy.

At the summit, NetDragon demonstrated the integration of technology and culture through innovative digital cultural-tourism projects. Among the highlights was the “Fantasy Ride Wuyi•Nine-Bend Roaming” VR horse-riding simulator, which utilizes cutting-edge digital scanning, drone technology, 3D modeling, and Unreal Engine technology to recreate the iconic landscapes of Wuyi Mountain, including Nine-Bend Stream and Dawang Peak. This immersive VR experience allows visitors to explore the scenic beauty of the ancient Tea Route. This project is also part of the “Digital Shanhai: Reimagining Fujian Tourism through Games” initiative, co-launched with Xinhua News and Information Center and other partners, to promote Fujian’s tourism through gamification. Additionally, NetDragon introduced “Fubao,” an AI-powered digital character representing Fujian’s “Fu (Fortune)” culture. Fubao, along with the Company’s virtual CEO Tang Yu, made their debut as “AI tourism ambassadors,” engaging attendees in real-time Q&A about Fujian’s tourism attractions and unique culture. This demonstration underscores NetDragon’s expertise in AI-driven content generation and gamified interactive experiences, creating value through the synergy of gaming and cultural tourism.

In the education sector, NetDragon unveiled its vision for future learning with the intelligent education service institution EDA and the self-learning tool “Future Lab,” reinforcing its vision of a personalized, global learning ecosystem. EDA leverages advanced AI technologies to deliver customized learning experiences, spanning across the full spectrum of lifelong learning. “Future Lab,” as part of the EDA ecosystem, aims to provide immersive learning experiences for middle and high school students in subjects such as math, physics, and chemistry. NetDragon is also advancing the development of “interactive educational games” that prioritize learner-driven engagement and immersive learning, redefining traditional teaching methodologies, and enriching EDA with high-quality content.

In recent years, NetDragon has advanced its strategy of integrating education and industry by expanding its vocational education efforts internationally and nurturing eSports talent. During the summit, NetDragon co-hosted a China–Thailand collegiate eSports friendship match with Fuzhou Software Technology Vocational College (FSTVC), providing a platform for cultural exchange while demonstrating NetDragon’s innovative approach to exporting vocational education services. Through its industry-education integration model and joint programs, FSTVC is exploring new revenue streams. Notably, NetDragon’s vocational education project in Thailand was included in the “Thousand Sails Going Global” initiative in 2024, led by China’s Ministry of Commerce together with five other ministries, marking a significant milestone in the Company’s global industry-education integration efforts.

In collaboration with Rokid, NetDragon also showcased its AI + AR innovations at the summit. By integrating “Fubao” into Rokid’s AR glasses, attendees were able to explore virtual experiences of Wuyi Mountain, digital art galleries, and polar molecular structures. Rokid, a key strategic investment project of NetDragon, specializes in developing AR hardware and software ecosystems. NetDragon is building an “AI + AR” content ecosystem, leveraging AR applications across gaming, education, and tourism to create immersive digital experiences.

As part of its ongoing commitment to the “Digital China” initiative, NetDragon continues to expand its “Digital Smart+” innovation approach, promoting the integration of digital technologies across the economic, cultural, social, and ecological development. Looking ahead, NetDragon is committed to working with global partners in education, cultural tourism, and digital creativity to drive further growth in the digital economy and contribute to the development of new digital economic advantages.

About NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited 

NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) is a global leader in building internet communities with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users, including previous establishments of China’s first online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China’s most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless.  

Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known online game developers in China with a history of successful game titles including Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved, Conquer Online and Under Oath. In the past 10 years, NetDragon has also achieved success with its online education business both domestically and globally, and its overseas education business entity, currently a U.S.-listed subsidiary named Mynd.ai, is a global leader in interactive technology and its award-winning interactive displays and software can be found in more than 1 million learning and training spaces across 126 countries. 

For investor enquiries, please contact:
NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
Ms. Maggie ZhouSenior Director of Investor Relations
Email: maggiezhou@nd.com.hk/ ir@netdragon.com 
Website: ir.netdragon.com   

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SOURCE NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited