NHL Referees Using Apple Watches to Monitor the Games

Apple and the National Hockey League (NHL) have introduced a new system where on-ice officials utilize Apple Watches equipped with specialized software to enhance game monitoring and officiating (via Yahoo!).

A referee wears an Apple Watch during an NHL game. (Image: Getty Images) 

The NHL Watch Comms app, developed in partnership with Presidio, is at the heart of this technological advancement. This custom application delivers critical game data directly to referees’ wrists, including the game clock and countdowns to the end of periods.

One of the standout features is the haptic feedback system, which provides vibrations to alert officials of key events, such as the imminent expiration of a penalty. This tactile system ensures that referees can stay informed without diverting their eyes from the play.

“Providing officials with the game clock on their wrist reduces the need to look up at the scoreboard, allowing them to focus more on the ice and the players,” explained Andres de Corral, Vice President of Digital Services at Presidio. The haptic alerts are particularly beneficial, signaling referees when a player is about to exit the penalty box.

To maintain uniformity, each NHL referee is issued a league-approved Apple Watch, ensuring that all officials have access to the same technology during games. These devices are configured exclusively with the NHL Watch Comms app, eliminating potential distractions from other applications or notifications.

This collaboration with the NHL is a significant addition to Apple’s growing involvement in professional sports. Beyond hockey, Apple has established partnerships across various leagues:

• Major League Baseball (MLB): Apple’s “Friday Night Baseball” offers exclusive live broadcasts of MLB games, providing fans with access to marquee matchups each week.
• Major League Soccer (MLS): Through a substantial $2.5 billion deal, Apple secured the rights to stream MLS games, aiming to enhance the viewing experience and broaden the league’s reach.
• World Surf League (WSL): Surfers are equipped with Apple Watches that display real-time wave data and scores, integrating technology into the sport to improve performance and spectator engagement.

Additionally, Apple has introduced the Apple Sports app, a free application designed to provide sports fans with real-time scores, statistics, and personalized content. This app covers a wide range of leagues, including the NFL, NBA, and Premier League

For Apple, these ventures serve multiple strategic purposes. Integrating its products into professional sports settings showcases their durability and functionality under demanding conditions, appealing to both consumers and professionals.

For sports leagues, partnering with a tech giant like Apple enhances their technological capabilities, offering improved tools for players, coaches, and officials, and enriching the overall fan experience.