By Wang Yunna, People’s Daily
China’s 15th National Games, jointly hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, have become a prominent showcase of cutting-edge technologies, reflecting the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s solid research capabilities, robust industrial base, and vibrant innovation ecosystem.
From the torch relay to event operations, technology has been integral to the games. Humanoid robots, autonomous vehicles, and low-altitude aircraft added a futuristic dimension to the relay, while a cloud-based intelligent management platform enabled precise scheduling within venues. Autonomous shuttling services further enhanced mobility, offering athletes and spectators a seamless, tech-enabled experience. The strong technological presence both on and off the field has vividly demonstrated the potential of integrating sports with science and technology.
From data-driven training and intelligent equipment to innovations in athlete health protection and event management, science and technology are redefining competitiveness and driving transformation across the sports sector. During the Games, more than 130 cutting-edge products powered by AI, big data, cloud computing, and other advanced technologies were showcased, exemplifying how innovation can enhance athletic performance and event delivery.
Innovation has also played a pivotal role in promoting greener, low-carbon operations at the Games. In the Guangdong competition zone, over 90 percent of venues were renovated from existing facilities and upgraded with energy-saving materials, smart lighting systems, and other sustainable technologies.
Digital solutions have enhanced both infrastructure and user experience. A dedicated mini-program helps spectators navigate large venues and locate their seats, while a cloud-based viewing platform allows audiences to select camera angles, track athlete performance, access analytics, and share livestreams, delivering a more immersive and interactive experience.
As audiences increasingly expect higher-quality, more interactive services, advanced technologies are reshaping how sports are consumed and unlocking new avenues for the commercialization of sporting events.
While technology serves as a powerful enabler for sports, sports in turn act as a driver and showcase for innovation. Sporting events offer real-world testing grounds for new technologies, accelerating their visibility, validation, and adoption. Competitive sports thus not only benefit from innovation but also stimulate ongoing research and development across industries.
In a highlight of the Games’ technological advancements, the men’s road cycling race traversed Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, with athletes crossing regional borders six times without stopping for documentation or security checks. This was made possible by a frictionless cross-boundary clearance system powered by the BeiDou Satellite Navigation System, radio-frequency identification technology, and AI algorithms. Successfully tested in real competition, the system provides valuable experience for enhancing clearance efficiency and supporting deeper integration across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Beyond the competition, the Games have left a lasting technological legacy. Digital human volunteers, fluent in multiple languages and available 24/7, provided intelligent, real-time intelligent interactive services for athletes, volunteers, and spectators, significantly boosting service responsiveness. The 15th National Games has not only served as a high-profile demonstration of emerging technologies but also created fertile ground for their commercialization and integration into everyday life.
By harnessing the momentum of this landmark event, the Greater Bay Area has opened new frontiers for development and innovation. This edition of the National Games stands as a testament to the achievements of China’s sports modernization and the evolving innovation landscape in one of the country’s most dynamic regions.
By harnessing the momentum of this landmark event, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area has opened new frontiers for development and innovation. This edition of the National Games stands as a testament to the achievements of China’s sports modernization and the evolving innovation landscape in one of the country’s most dynamic regions.
