Voice experience (VX) and digital design agency VERSA has developed the official All Blacks Skill for Amazon Alexa to give fans a winning edge when following the team.
VERSA worked with Amazon to create the voice experience for New Zealand Rugby (NZR) to connect the All Blacks to a global audience of more than 800 million rugby followers.
“As a proud Kiwi, I’m personally thrilled to be working with the All Blacks to develop this VX that leverages the possibilities of AI and voice technology to connect brands and fans in more meaningful ways," says Kath Blackham, CEO VERSA.
"The All Blacks Skill is set to be an exciting addition to the Rugby World Cup this year."
The All Blacks Skill will give fans exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to the All Blacks’ camp, including game previews and recaps.
NZR chief commercial officer Richard Thomas says the new Skill will help to create a "rich digital experience" that will connect fans from around the world.
“Just as the All Blacks are dedicated to bringing the highest level of skill onto the playing field, New Zealand Rugby is committed to bringing ground-breaking innovations to our millions of fans off the field too," Thomas says.
Fans will be able to hear or watch on multi-modal Alexa devices the team perform the Haka and learn the meaning behind the legendary war dance.
“Alexa, ask All Blacks for the latest news” will allow users to hear the latest from the All Blacks camp, while fans can also compete for a place on the global leader board in a weekly All Blacks quiz.
“We're delighted to see New Zealand Rugby innovate around fan engagement with Alexa," says Kate Burleigh, country manager, Alexa Skills Australia and New Zealand.
"The All Blacks Alexa Skill has some fantastic content for fans and its launch is perfectly timed ahead of their campaign in Japan."
The All Blacks Skill has launched in New Zealand, Australia, USA, UK and Canada.
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