DAZN has announced the purchase of the Tel Aviv-based video streaming specialist Texel.
The company’s 50 employees will now form the basis of a new innovation hub, DAZN X, which will operate across DAZN’s core markets.
The agreement is not just about the people, but also the proprietary technology Texel has created, particularly around the fan experience. DAZN X will focus on developing interactive and engaging content layers for fans as part of DAZN’s sports streaming service.
Shay Segev, DAZN Co-CEO, said: “We are here to revolutionise the sports viewing experience by making it more exciting, more sociable and engaging. Our acquisition of Texel and the launch of DAZN X significantly accelerates our strategy and positions us as the world’s leading sports innovator.”
DAZN subscribers will soon be able to talk, share, shop and play with their friends and communities while live streaming premium sports content.
Guy Zisman, CTO and co-founder of Texel, said, “DAZN subscribers can look forward to enjoying a seamless multi-screen socialized experience, delivered by our powerful proprietary cloud-based engagement technology.”
Broadcasters including BT Sport – which DAZN is reportedly interested in purchasing – are introducing interactivity to enhance the viewer experience. However, innovations such as ‘multiple’ camera angles and fan commentaries have long since disappeared from digital platforms such as Sky.
