The Australian Open has sparked mixed reactions among fans by using AI to sidestep broadcast restrictions and stream live matches on YouTube with the tournament's tennis players appearing as Nintendo Mii-like cartoon avatars. This video includes ACM-produced voiceover powered by AI.
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00:00Fancy a game of Wii Sports Tennis, anyone?
00:08The Australian Open seems keen.
00:10It's using AI to stream live matches on YouTube, with players appearing as freaky cartoon avatars.
00:26The risky move is aimed at sidestepping streaming and broadcast restrictions for viewers.
00:31With Channel 9 prioritising the big-name matches for TV, tennis fans wanting more options have
00:36been left with two choices – pay $27 a month for the nine-owned Stan Sport or watch these
00:42animated recreations on YouTube.
00:44The AI-animated broadcast mirrors the real match, with all broadcasts live to watch on
00:49the Australian Open YouTube channel.
00:51But it's not without its critics.
00:53Fans have compared the bizarre visuals to the Nintendo Wii Sports video game.
00:58And just like a game, the tech might need a patch or two to iron out some bugs.