It was announced last right before the Games in Rio started that Google lifted its game for the 2016 Summer Olympics, by delivering a range of updates that serve the purpose of ensuring users have the most up-to-date and fluent experience possible when searching for Olympic content.
Whether you are looking for live updates, medal tallies, athlete profiles or event schedules, Google is providing it. Google announced that they would be tuning up their Search, YouTube, Trends and Google Maps platforms to suit those who wish to receive the most relevant and up-to-date information in over 30 countries around the world.
While all this content will be available online, users of the Google app will also be eligible to receive automatic updates on top events and medal winners.
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Naturally, YouTube will hold a major presence in the Rio Games, which has partnered with broadcasters in 60 countries including BBC, América Móvil, and NHK. Google says that due to these partnerships, Search will be tightening its relationship with YouTube, providing links to live events and highlight packages wherever possible.
Google is also promoting 15 YouTube stars as tour guides in Rio, who are providing their own personal take of the experience in and around the Games. Additionally, Google has also finished a project that will enhance the Google Maps experience, detailing everything from the favelas and the local businesses around Rio, to the stadiums and the city’s iconic landmarks.
Google has not put any limitations on what fans can search, watch or find through their engine, and has used tools like YouTube and Maps to give those who weren’t lucky enough to travel over, the ultimate fan experience.
As for the fans in Rio for this historic event, they haven’t missed out, as Google looks to eliminate the use of traditional paperback guides. Perhaps one of the most impressive features for fans attending the Games involves the fine detail that Google Maps is presenting. Small businesses feature in the app for those looking to duck into a restaurant or get a haircut, and it will be almost impossible to get lost with the mapping of the favelas and stadiums.