Alibaba Cloud Powers Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics with AI-Driven Broadcasting Revolution
Alibaba Cloud is set to elevate the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics with cutting-edge cloud and AI technologies, continuing its long-standing partnership with the International Olympic Committee and Olympic Broadcasting Services. Building on successes from Tokyo 2020, Beijing 2022, and Paris 2024, this collaboration introduces smarter broadcasting solutions that promise more immersive viewing experiences for global audiences. Advanced AI tools, powered by Alibaba’s Qwen large language model, mark the first use of LLM technology at the Olympics, while cloud infrastructure streamlines operations across complex winter venues.
A standout innovation is the upgraded Real-Time 360º Replay system, which uses AI algorithms to separate athletes from snowy or icy backgrounds, enabling three-dimensional reconstructions of key moments in just 15-20 seconds for live broadcasts. Deployed across 17 sports including ice hockey, figure skating, and ski jumping, the platform adds Spacetime Slices to show multiple phases of movement in one composite image, helping viewers analyze technique in detail. Enhanced features build on the BulletTime effects from previous Games, delivering fluid camera movements and stroboscopic visuals that bring dynamic action closer to fans.
The partnership also transforms content management with the Automatic Media Description System and an upgraded Sports AI archiving solution, both driven by Qwen. These tools automatically tag assets, generate descriptions, and support natural-language searches, making vast Olympic archives instantly accessible. Cloud-based broadcasting expands further, supporting numerous ultra-high-definition feeds and digital assets through platforms like OBS Content+, ensuring efficient distribution worldwide.
