A groundbreaking device is helping blind and low-vision fans experience the thrill of live sports at Portland Trail Blazers games. Developed by Seattle-based OneCourt, the tactile display transforms real-time game data into touchable vibrations that mimic player movement across the court. For 11-year-old Hank Vogel, who has a degenerative eye condition, the technology made watching a basketball game feel interactive for the first time.
Using a raised court outline and vibration-based feedback, the device allows users to “feel” the action, while an audio feed provides play-by-play context. This season, the Blazers became the first NBA team to offer the device at games, with five units available to borrow through a partnership with Ticketmaster. Experts say innovations like this can boost social participation and quality of life for visually impaired fans. OneCourt hopes to eventually offer the tech for home use at an accessible price.