Microsoft Surface Pro Hits NFL Sidelines

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 debuted in late June 2014 to excellent reviews. Both thinner (.53 inches to .36 inches) and lighter (1.98 pounds to 1.76 pounds) than its predecessor, the Surface Pro 3 still manages to have a larger display at 12 inches than the Surface Pro 2’s 10.6-inch screen, with a higher resolution as well. Add to that a new kickstand that allows for high maneuverability and the Surface Pro 3 has replaced the need for both a laptop and tablet in one swoop.

Last year, Microsoft released its NFL app for Xbox One and Windows 8 later in the NFL season This year the app is ready for the start of the schedule, but Bill Gates and company still have another ace up their sleeve. After bringing the NFL to viewers through their tablet, Microsoft is bringing their tablet to the NFL.

Now, with the Surface Pro on the sidelines, NFL quarterbacks and coaches alike will be looking at pre-play images via Surface Pro with the new Sideline Viewing System. Teams will receive 25 Surface tablets each week to access full-color photos of each play with the ability to zoom, move, bookmark and draw on the images. Delivered over a wireless, secure system, this process will be about five times faster than the printed out, black and white images used previously. The Sideline Viewing System hopes to increase competiveness between teams and allow for quicker changes to in-game strategies.

While teams are able to use traditional means, there is no doubt this could be the start of a new digital age for professional sports.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 ranges from $775 to $999.