The National Hockey League (NHL) and Apple have partnered to equip on-ice officials with Apple Watches running a special application called NHL Watch Comms. This app allows referees to view the game clock, receive haptic alerts for penalty box departures and period endings, and access data from the NHL's Oasis system via haptic feedback.
The main goal of this technology is to enhance situational awareness for officials, allowing them to stay focused on the game while efficiently tracking game clock, player movements, and penalty situations without constantly looking at the scoreboard.
Officials can choose between the Apple Watch Ultra or Series models, depending on personal preferences and the need for wrist guards. However, these watches are provided specifically for game use, ensuring a uniform experience for all officials.
This is not the first technological collaboration between Apple and the NHL. They have a history of using Apple devices (iPads, Macs) for game video delivery, and Apple has also collaborated with other leagues, such as the World Surf League, in providing real-time information to participants.