ESPN Enlists Artificial Intelligence Platform to Analyze Programming

The network will use Veritone’s AI to monitor radio, television and podcasts.

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A view of the logo during ESPN The Party on February 5, 2016 in San Francisco, California. (Robin Marchant/Getty Images for ESPN)

In advance of the spring launch of its new paid direct-to-consumer streaming service, ESPN has renewed its relationship with a firm that provides analysis using artificial intelligence.

ESPN Radio has been using Veritone’s aiWARE platform to analyze its sports talk programming and live event coverage since 2016 and, under the terms of the new deal, the AI platform will start to be used to monitor the network’s television and podcasts as well.

“The aiWARE platform seamlessly and automatically transforms ESPN’s media with AI in near real time, with enhanced ad and content tracking, comprehensive analytics, faster content extension and smarter media management,” according to a press release.

The move comes as ESPN prepares to launch the ESPN+ streaming service – which will offer live sporting events, original content and on-demand programming – for $4.99 per month.

Interestingly enough, California-based Veritone also counts Fox Sports among its clients.

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