Technology at the 2014 Winter Olympics

Technology at the 2014 Winter Olympics

Several technology companies are partnering to modernize the 2014 Winter Olympic Games and increase security surrounding the event.

ATOS Origin states that Sochi games will be the most “digitally enabled” of all winter Olympic games. The company, an international IT firm, is the official informational technology partner of the Winter Olympic Games. ATOS will coordinate all the technology needed to provide athletes, viewers, and spectators with a functional experience.

Adobe is partnering with NBC to broadcast the Olympics over the Internet. NBC subscribers will be able to view the Olympics online, through the Adobe Prime service or the NBC Sports Live Extra app.

In Sochi, Avaya, the official network equipment supplier of the 2014 Winter Games, has elevated security surrounding network equipment at the Olympic stadium. The company has built a network to support more than 40,000 athletes, reporters, and organizers of the event. For enhanced security, the company has created five distinct networks targeted towards different participants in the event. The company will not provide Wi-Fi access for spectators.

For viewers following the Olympics at home, Microsoft is helping provide HD video streaming of the Olympics through the Azure service. BBC has also released a free mobile app to help users keep track of statistics and medal winners on a smartphone or tablet. Among other platforms, the app is available on the iOS, Android, and Windows app stores.