The USGA will make it easier to keep up with the action at the 116th U.S. Open – even if you aren’t at Oakmont Country Club. The enhanced U.S. Open Mobile App will use new technology to boost fan enjoyment, from groupings and starting times to details about Oakmont’s storied history with the USGA.
With support from technology provider IBM, the app will be your “digital caddie,” featuring a live interactive map that can be customized via advanced search and GPS functionality. The locator feature provides fans with the capability to find their favorite players on the course, as well as points of interest and amenities such as grandstands, concessions, restrooms, merchandise and Wi-Fi zones. The Mobile App features three new tools to create a memorable spectator experience:
- Locator creates a live map of the championship. Using ball-location data and satellite imagery, Locator allows users to find players on the course, see upcoming players on any hole, and display players nearby.
- Playcaster is a first-of-its-kind technology that lets golf fans scroll forward or backward in time to predict where a player will be on the course later in the day, or to see players’ past shot locations.
· Beacon Technology allows the USGA to enhance the on-site experience by delivering relevant, location-based alerts to fans that have downloaded the U.S. Open App and enabled their phones’ Bluetooth and notification settings. Those opted in may receive notifications about exclusive events, merchandise offers and memorable moments in Oakmont’s history.
“The U.S. Open Mobile App makes it easy for spectators at Oakmont to see and do everything they want,” said Amanda Weiner, assistant director of digital media for the USGA. “But when you are at home, the app helps you, find the group you want to watch, take care of your errands in time and then settle in to watch the action on Fox, FS1 or online.”
To personalize your U.S. Open experience at Oakmont, download the U.S. Open App, join the USGA Wi-Fi network and enable your Bluetooth and notification settings both on your smartphone and in the app – then enjoy the U.S. Open like you never have before!
David Chmiel is manager of member content for the USGA. Contact him at dchmiel@usga.org.