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V1 Sports, creator of well-regarded swing analysis software, has just updated its V1 Game mobile app, endowing it with artificial intelligence shot tracking as well as virtual coach and virtual caddie functions.
Essentially, this app enables golfers to turn their smartphones or Apple watches into a GPS rangefinder with auto-shot detection. Through the use of sensors in those devices, A.I. technology adds a course management element to the equation by using information gathered during past rounds to make club and shot recommendations – and remind players of where they tend to miss in certain situations.
Data captured during games also is used in the compilation of post-round stats such as putts, greens and fairways in regulation, strokes gained, club distances and shot patterns, as well as the things individual players should practice.
“V1 Game does not lie to you,” said Chris McGinley, the company’s chief revenue officer. “It shows you where you have been hitting your shots, where you have been missing and how you can score better.”
Another benefit, McGinley pointed out, is that golfers do not need to install hardware in their clubs.
“Your Apple watch or your smartphone does all the work,” he said, adding that the smartphone is most effective when it is on a player’s person. Another attribute of the app: It makes it possible for golfers to share the data it accumulates with their coaches or golf professionals.
V1 Game is available in four packages, the first being free and including basic GPS functions and shot tracking. As for the one with the most features, and the highest price tag ($11.99 a month or $119.99 a year), it is called Eagle and also provides auto-shot detection, strokes gained data, DIY stats, virtual coach and virtual caddie.