SBS AND OPTUS LAUNCH OFFICIAL 2018 FIFA WORLD CUP APP AND FIRST EVER WORLD CUP VIRTUAL REALITY APP

 SBS and Optus, the exclusive Australian broadcasters of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™, have launched the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ app, alongside the first ever FIFA World Cup™ Virtual Reality (VR) app for the world’s most watched sports tournament.

Both of the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018™ apps have been developed jointly by Optus Sport and SBS, working closely with FIFA, and are now available to download in preparation for tournament kick off on 14 June.

The apps give Australians free access to 25 matches live and on demand in HD with multi-lingual commentary to both SBS and Optus Sport users, with the remaining 39 games available exclusively to Optus Sport Premium subscribers for $15 per month or at no extra cost on eligible Optus plans.

2018 FIFA World Cup™ App
The 2018 FIFA World Cup™ app will be a one-stop shop offering matches live and on-demand* as well as breaking news alerts, expert analysis and opinion, video highlights, live scores, statistics, fixtures, group standings, and team information.

Users can access an exclusive Full HD MatchCast experience which provides five different pitch angles, including a Cable Cam and new mosaic stream and allows users to follow teams and players for an even closer look.

Users can also access multi-angle content from over 35 cameras surrounding the pitch to watch replays and highlights from every angle including super slow motion options. Users can personalise their experience by choosing their favourite team and also watch short-form videos produced by Optus Sport, SBS and FIFA. Note, Optus Sport Premium subscription required to access Optus Sport’s short-form videos.

FIFA World Cup™ VR App
The virtual reality (VR) app will offer Australians a FIFA World Cup™ first, enabling fans to enter their own VIP stadium suite and watch live matches** in immersive virtual reality.

The app incorporates dedicated VR match content created at the venues, inviting viewers to experience the action from various positions inside the stadium, change between camera angles during live matches, re-watch games and interact with data and statistics.

For the first time, users can watch matches with 180 degree and 210 degree super wide angle views. A 360 degree video will be available on-demand once matches conclude.

SBS Director of Sport Ken Shipp said: “FIFA World Cup Russia 2018™ is set to be the most connected World Cup ever and with the addition of these two custom-built apps, developed with our partners at Optus Sport and FIFA, football fans will be able to immerse themselves in the world game like never before.

“With over 30 years in the business of football, SBS is proud to continue embracing new technologies to give Australia’s diverse communities more ways to come together and experience the passion and emotion of the biggest sporting event on Earth.”

Optus Head of TV and Content, Corin Dimopoulos said, “We are pleased to add a significantly new dimension to our broadcast of all 64 matches of the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ and provide a greater user experience.

“Fans will be able to choose a wide range of views, from being in the stands, walking out onto the field with the players, standing in the tunnel or being in a position behind the goals.”

“The virtual reality app adds more detail and interaction for viewers and typifies the way Optus uses technology to enhance and expand the way we broadcast live sport.”

Both apps are available to download on iOS and Android for mobile and tablets through the Apple Store and Google Play. Additionally, the Russia 2018™ VR app is supported by Samsung GearVR and will be available through the Oculus Store.

To find out more about Optus Sport please visit http://sport.optus.com.au/FIFA

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Optus Media Contact
Tara White
(02) 8082 7850
media@optus.com.au

SBS Media contact:
Jackie Holt, Communications Specialist
0447 245 330
Jackie.holt@sbs.com.au

*Accessibility for matches depends on subscription. SBS’s 25 matches (live and on demand) as well as highlights from all games, SBS news and match centre will be available free for Australians. Users will require an Optus Sport Premium subscription to access the remaining 39 matches in full (live and on demand), Optus Sport news and extended highlights at $15 per month or at no extra cost on eligible Optus plans.

**Accessibility within the VR app will depend on subscription options. VR for SBS’s 25 matches will be accessible free for all Australians. Users will require an Optus Sport Premium subscription to access VR for the remaining 39 matches.