In a groundbreaking night for sports and accessibility, a University of Alabama exhibition basketball game became the first in the U.S. to feature new tactile technology for visually impaired fans. The game, held at Boutwell Auditorium, saw the debut of the Touch2See tablet, a device that allows users to “feel” the on-court action in real-time. Students from the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind (AIDB) were among the first to experience this life-changing innovation.
A Historic Night for Sports and Accessibility
The matchup between the University of Alabama and Wake Forest was historic for several reasons. It marked the first time basketball was played at the historic Boutwell Auditorium in over 45 years, drawing a sellout crowd excited to see the No. 2 ranked Alabama team.
Beyond the game itself, the event represented a major step forward for inclusivity in live sports. For many years, visually impaired fans have had limited ways to engage with the fast-paced action of a live game. Friday night changed that, introducing a solution that could reshape the fan experience for an entire community. The event was a perfect blend of honoring sports history while pioneering a more inclusive future.
How Touch2See Brings the Game to Life
The Touch2See tablet provides a tactile map of the basketball court, allowing users to follow the game through touch. A moving cursor on the tablet tracks the ball’s position, and different vibrations signal key actions, giving a true sense of the game’s flow and intensity. The technology translates live game data into a physical experience.
This innovative device works by:
- Providing a textured layout of the court so users can feel boundaries and key areas.
- Using a vibrating cursor that moves across the tablet to represent the ball’s movement.
- Changing the intensity and type of vibration to indicate passes, shots, and dunks.
For students like Kayla Weathers of AIDB, the experience was transformative. “Sports to me weren’t really an accessible experience,” she said. “But now, this technology changes everything.” She noted how feeling the rapid vibrations helped her finally understand the true speed of the game.
A Global Innovation Arrives in Alabama
Developed by the French company Touch2See, this technology has already been used at major international events, including the Rugby World Cup. Its U.S. debut was made possible by a partnership between Touch2See and KultureCity, an Alabama-based nonprofit dedicated to creating sensory-inclusive and accessible experiences.
The collaboration brought this cutting-edge technology from Europe to the heart of the South. Emmanuel Joawn, Touch2See’s U.S. sales manager, described watching fans use the device as an “emotional experience.” “Watching visually impaired fans be able to follow a game live—it’s powerful,” he said.
| Organization | Role in the Event | Home Base |
|---|---|---|
| Touch2See | Technology Developer | France |
| KultureCity | U.S. Non-Profit Partner | Alabama, USA |
| University of Alabama | Exhibition Game Host | Alabama, USA |
What’s Next for This Game-Changing Technology?
While the debut was a massive success, the Touch2See tablets are not yet available for individual purchase. The company’s model focuses on partnering with sports teams, leagues, and venues to invest in the technology, making it an amenity for their fans.
The company has ambitious plans for the future. The next goal is to adapt the technology for other major American sports, such as baseball and football. This successful trial in Alabama serves as a powerful proof of concept for expansion across the country.
Joy Palmer of KultureCity emphasized the broader impact of such innovations. “It’s about being part of something bigger, something communal,” she explained. Technology like Touch2See is breaking down long-standing barriers, allowing more people than ever to share in the excitement of live sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Touch2See tablet?
The Touch2See tablet is a device designed for visually impaired individuals. It uses a tactile surface and vibrations to provide a real-time representation of a live sports game, allowing users to follow the action through touch.
How does the technology work?
The tablet receives live data from the game. It features a textured map of the court or field, and a vibrating cursor moves to show the ball’s location. The vibrations change in intensity to signal different actions like passing, shooting, or scoring.
Where has this technology been used before?
Before its U.S. debut in Alabama, Touch2See technology was used at major international sporting events, including the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the Paris Paralympics.
Can I buy a Touch2See tablet for personal use?
Currently, the tablets are not available for individuals to purchase. The company partners directly with sports venues and teams, who then provide the devices to fans during games.
Are there plans to expand this technology to other sports?
Yes, Touch2See is actively working to adapt its technology for other popular American sports. Their goal is to bring this accessible experience to baseball, football, and more in the near future.
