*BALTIMORE RAVENS FIRST NFL TEAM TO LAUNCH AUGMENTED REALITY FACE PAINTING WITH FACEWARE INTERACTIVE
Ravens also name Faceware Interactive Official Augmented Reality Provider
The Baltimore Ravens, in partnership with Faceware Interactive and Image Metrics technology, have developed a photo real, virtual, face painting experience that seamlessly integrates into the team's mobile app (powered by YINZCAM). This experience, along with other new, in-stadium, augmented reality activations for the 2017 and 2018 seasons, is aimed at increasing fan engagement and excitement.
With over a dozen face paint looks to choose from, fans will be able to express their Ravens pride like never before. And, each look is shareable on social media and messaging platforms.
Later in the 2017 season, fans will also have access to the "Fan Mirror," a full size, moveable, face recognition mirror located on RavensWalk, the M&T Bank Stadium concourse, or at special events. And finally, in 2018, in-stadium cameras will use facial recognition of fans in the stands and project face paint on them to the RavensVision boards.
The three, new augmented reality fan experiences expand upon the Ravens' existing three-phase, $120 million self-funded stadium improvement project that will enhance the fan experience at M&T Bank Stadium. That program also includes two, 4K ultra-high definition video displays, the introduction of SKYCAM into the game experience and the 2018 reveal of four new 4K, ultra-high definition corner video displays.
"We we want attending a game to be an amazing experience for our fans. We want to create lifelong memories. Our face paint executions are not only a cool way for our fans to show their team spirit, but they create those great memories," said Senior Vice President of Ravens Media Michelle Andres.
"It brings us great pleasure to bring our technology into the sports world," said Peter Busch, Vice President of Business Development for Faceware Interactive. "Ravens fans will get to share their pride unlike any fan has ever done before, and to be a part of that is special."
The Ravens have a three-year partnership with Faceware Interactive as the first-ever official Augmented Reality Provider of the club -- the first of its kind in professional sports.
Access to this new feature is available for both iOS and Android devices and requires fans to download the Ravens mobile app or to update to the most current version. (Android update expected late Friday afternoon.)
About the Baltimore Ravens
Entering their 22nd year of existence, the two-time Super Bowl Champion Baltimore Ravens have earned a playoff berth in six of the past nine seasons. Since head coach John Harbaugh's arrival in 2008, Baltimore has posted the NFL's fourth-most total victories (95), won the league's second-most playoff games (10), advanced to an impressive three AFC Championship contests, and in 2012, captured the World Championship in Super Bowl XLVII. The Ravens, who also won Super Bowl XXXV during the 2000 campaign, have made the playoffs in seven of the past 11 seasons – producing three AFC North Division titles during this time (2006, 2011 and 2012).
About Faceware
Faceware Technologies is the most innovative and experienced facial motion capture technology provider in the world, and has become the gold-standard for facial motion capture and animation tools. Faceware's hardware and software represent complete solutions for the interactive entertainment, film, video game, television, and commercial markets for clients such as Microsoft, 2K Sports, Electronic Arts, Sega, Sony, and more. Faceware Interactive is a division of Faceware Technologies, with a focus on bringing interactive experiences to companies across multiple industries.
About Image Metrics
Image Metrics is a world leader in facial analysis and detection software. Through patented algorithms, Image Metrics created its own platform to enable augmented reality experiences for the world's most innovative brands. Their patented technology detects even the most nuanced facial expressions and was part of L'Oreal's Make Up Genius and Nissan's DieHard Fan applications. Image Metrics licenses its technology to its sister company, Faceware Technologies. More information can be found at image-metrics.com.
