UBS Arena Makes AI Technology Partnership

UBS Arena and the New York Islanders have partnered with engineering platform Viam, who will become the official AI technology partnership of the arena and hockey club.

As part of a multi-year agreement, Viam’s software will be integrated into the arena and surrounding areas, with examples including to help route fans to the most efficient markets/concessions and restrooms and optimize driving patterns for cars and shuttle services. 

Viam also becomes the official helmet partner of the Islanders, with the company’s logo 

prominently displayed on the team’s helmets for home and away games, starting Oct. 25. 

“Viam is at the forefront of helping organizations manage the transformative change that comes with AI,” said Dan Griffis, president of global partnerships at Oak View Group, developer of UBS Arena. “Their commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with our own, and we look forward to not only creating new experiences for Islanders fans and all of our guests at UBS Arena, but also making a dent in the sports and entertainment universe with a unique and transformational use of AI.”

Viam was launched in 2020 by Eliot Horowitz, former co-founder and CTO of publicly traded database giant MongoDB. In addition to sports and entertainment, Viam’s clients include companies in robotics, food and beverage, climate tech, marine and industrial manufacturing.

“Our partnership with UBS Arena and the New York Islanders demonstrates Viam’s ability to translate opportunities around AI and data into meaningful physical applications,” Horowitz said in the announcement. “We’re excited to work together to set the bar for how sports and entertainment venues integrate AI and help enhance the incredible experience provided to anyone visiting the arena.”

Going forward, Viam will also partner with Oak View Group, parent company of Pollstar and VenuesNow, to integrate its technology into the fan experience at other venues in the OVG portfolio, driving increased efficiencies, supporting sustainability initiatives, and helping to scale revenue.

“Our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for our guests at UBS Arena is unwavering,” said John Collins, Operating Partner, New York Islanders. “With Viam’s technology, we are confident in our ability to take that commitment to new levels, ensuring that UBS Arena can integrate AI in smart ways and continue as a state-of-the-art destination for years to come.”