NHL Referees Get Real-Time Alerts from Apple Watches for Smoother Gameplay

The National Hockey League (NHL) is adopting the Apple Watch to enhance officiating during games, particularly in outdoor settings like the Stadium Series. The NHL Watch Comms App provides real-time haptic alerts for key game events such as period countdowns and power play endings, allowing referees to keep their focus on the ice rather than the clock. This technology leverages 25 data points from the NHL's OASIS feed, which includes player positioning and puck movement. The app ensures officials receive timely notifications even in areas with poor connectivity through cellular backup. Over 90% of on-ice officials are already using the Apple Watch, and future enhancements may include detection of high sticks and alerts for blocked goal line views.