NFL quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Drew Brees, in partnership with Microsoft, are changing how fans connect with their favorite stars when it comes to obtaining autographs.
Over the past week, Microsoft unveiled the ‘Social Autograph’, a new way for athletes to digitally sign an autograph with the Microsoft Surface pen and Windows inking technology. Fans can then share the piece of sports memorabilia in real-time on social media.
On Conan O’Brien’s show Tuesday night, Wilson signed the first ‘Social Autograph’ with the late night host and posted it to Twitter shortly thereafter.
Had a blast stopping by @ConanOBrien today. Hooked him up with the first ever Social Autograph on a @Surface #MicrosoftNFL pic.twitter.com/IweAhy8VOu
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) February 1, 2017
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“Our goal was to use Windows 10 inking technology on a Surface to completely reinvent and reimagine the traditional autograph in a way that only Microsoft can,” Jeff Tran, Director of Sports and Alliances for Microsoft said in a statement. “These Microsoft Social Autographs give fans an all-new kind of digital memorabilia that’s more personal, shareable and will live forever.”
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Following Wilson, Brees — another Microsoft spokesperson — digitally signed a few autographs for fans at the NFL Experience in Houston, site of Super Bowl LI on Sunday between the New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons.
Great meeting the @grojeane family today. Check out this new type of autograph #CreatedOnSurface! #MicrosoftNFL pic.twitter.com/dvWROOjS4R
— Drew Brees (@drewbrees) February 3, 2017
Detroit Lions legendary running back Barry Sanders also joined the signing frenzy on Friday while New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks participated in the digital experience on Saturday.
Few things are as smooth as the legendary @BarrySanders. Just his running style, and his autograph #CreatedOnSurface using @Windows Ink. pic.twitter.com/h5yRsHQb75
— Surface (@surface) February 4, 2017
How this new digital autograph impacts the traditional signature on a jersey, ball, hat or card — if at all — remains to be seen. For now, though, it’s a one-off unique initiative that’s worth keeping an eye on as the digital era continues to evolve.