Disney+ Hotstar has announced an array of comprehensive upgrades for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 that will start from October 5th.
The platform, in collaboration with International Cricket Council (ICC), also recently added MaxView – a technological innovation that will allow cricket fans to watch the game in vertical mode (9X14 portrait view).
Key features available for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 include:
MaxView for non-stop Cricketing action on the move
For the very first time in the history of streaming Cricket worldwide, Disney+ Hotstar in collaboration with the ICC, is presenting users with the option to stream their matches on the go in vertical mode.
This feature facilitates a one-handed viewing experience, aligning with the way most users consume content. MaxView will be a brand new, bespoke opt-in feature. Other surrounding features, such as the Live feed tab, Scorecard tab, will also be made available in vertical mode, along with vertical ad formats.
Designed specifically for mobile phone consumption, the ICC TV-produced feed reimagines how Live Cricket can be delivered in a vertical format. Some production techniques adopted include single player frames (which bring the user closer to their favourite player) and split view (providing unique perspectives on the same screen). The graphics used for this format are also designed to enable bespoke narrative storytelling made exclusively tailored to vertical video.
Optimized Data Saving for Quality Streaming
Understanding the sensitivities around data consumption, Disney+ Hotstar has optimized its video delivery to ensure high-quality streaming with minimal data usage. This improvement ensures that all users can enjoy the excitement of live cricket without worrying about excessive data charges.
AI Based video clarity enhancements
A new filter at the backend will improve the viewing experience for the users on their mobile devices in the event that there are hazy weather conditions on the ground.
Always-On Cricket Scorecard Pill for Uninterrupted Action
This feature allows users to keep track of live cricketing action while enjoying other content on the platform, and to be kept up-to-date when an important event happens in the game.
Live feed tab for a Deeper Understanding
A unique cricket commentator experience by enhancing viewers’ understanding and enjoyment of the game. Integrated with contextual information such as player stats and match updates, this feature provides an in-depth view of the action unfolding on the field.
Seamless Content Discovery
As part of its continuous commitment to innovation, the new content discovery feature called the Coming Soon tray allows users to set reminders for upcoming content.
Furthermore, the platform will segregate free and paid content in separate trays by providing Free Callouts on the homepage trays, making content discovery easier for free users.
During ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, the platform will also introduce “free badges” which will help the non-subscribed customers to easily discover and enjoy tons of content available to them for free along with some newer tray formats.
The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, played in India, starts on 5th October. Disney+ Hotstar offers ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup LIVE, Exclusive and Free on Mobile. The tournament will also be broadcast LIVE on the Star Sports Network.
Commenting on these features, Sajith Sivanandan – Head, Disney+ Hotstar, said:
Disney+ Hotstar has pioneered the market in providing unmatched live sports experiences. Our progression is deeply influenced by fan behavior, and we continuously adapt by introducing technological innovations to enhance the viewing experience, especially for users on the go. Our dedicated efforts have been channeled into building a robust product infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted viewing even amidst the anticipated high user volume.