According to Sportsmedia.com, Microsoft has renewed its technology partnership with the NFL. As part of the renewal, NFL teams and referees will continue to use Surface tablets for video replays through the end of the 2018-2019 season (via MSPoweruser.)
It’s not clear how much the new deal is worth, but Microsoft previously inked a five-year partnership worth $400 million back in 2013. Yusuf Mehdi, corporate vice president at Microsoft commented on the renewal of the partnership.
We’re excited to help the NFL change the game with Surface devices being used by players and coaches on the sidelines to make more informed decisions, referees using Surface for instant replay to enhance the speed of the game, and teams using Microsoft products in their business and football operations. We look forward to continuing the partnership next season.
The NFL and Microsoft partnership had ups and downs over the past few years. There was a fair share of controversy when NFL coach Bill Belichick dismissed the use of the Surface tablets on the field, but Microsoft followed up to back up the partnership, saying it is a “fan and player favorite.” Consumers, though, have seen many cool things from the partnership, such as an NFL themed Surface ads, Surface experiences at the Superbowl, and Surface themed Type Covers.
