No details have been offered on how many more years the NFL deal will continue for. However, Microsoft has now been supplying Surface devices to the organization since 2013. This makes it one of Microsoft’s longest hardware partnerships. “Since 2013, Microsoft has helped transform the NFL through technology around our game. Microsoft Surface has quickly become an authentic tool to the game of football and is vital during all NFL games for coaches, players, and NFL officials.,” said Renie Anderson, Chief Revenue Officer and Executive Vice President of NFL Partnerships. “And now by working together to integrate Microsoft Teams across the League, together we aim to improve on communications and collaboration in a modern way.” Microsoft says the extension will now include Microsoft Teams, allowing franchises to use the workplace chat tool for collaboration. Whiteboard integration will allow coaches to create digital diagrams and plays.
Adoption
According to Redmond, the Surface collaboration with the NFL has helped the league transform how instant replays are handed and in-game management. Microsoft says over 2,000 devices have been given to teams in the league. Furthermore, 170 Windows Servers have been placed in 35 stadiums around the world. “NFL teams are already starting to take advantage of Microsoft Teams in their day-to-day work. For example, the Miami Dolphins used the platform to plan Super Bowl LIV at Hard Rock Stadium. The New York Jets use Microsoft Teams across their football and business operations, including the NFL Draft process. And Super Bowl Champions Kansas City Chiefs’ scouting staff uses Microsoft Teams to coordinate with the club’s on-the-road scouts.”
