Sports Technology & Communications News from Around the World

The redesigned official website of the 112th U.S. Open Championship - usopen.com- is now available for U.S. Open fans. Powered by IBM's (News - Alert) cloud computing platform, the redesigned website offers exceptional functionality and new features to entertain, inform and engage fans.  Usopen.com will be covering golf's toughest test, which will be played at The Olympic Club in San Francisco, June 14-17.

According to a press release, features offered in the new usopen.com include live high-definition (HD) video streaming, real time scoring, interactive PlayTracker and access to Web and mobile applications, ultimately bringing fans closer to our national championship than ever before - wherever and whenever they want. With these features fans around the world can experience each hole at The Olympic Club just like the world's best golfers.

"We set out to create a multi-functional, easy-to-use website that will provide the outstanding digital experience that fans of the U.S. Open have come to expect," said Sarah Hirshland, senior managing director, business affairs for the USGA. "With superb photography and video, compelling articles and enhanced interactivity,usopen.com extends beyond the desktop to bring the championship experience to the user."

"We're collaborating with the USGA to connect fans to the U.S. Open, no matter where they are located," said Rick Singer, vice president of Client Executive Marketing for IBM, the official Information Technology partner of the USGA. "Our goal is to help golf fans feel like they're on the course and part of the action in every round - from the first tee shot to the last putt on the 18th hole."

The official 2012 U.S. Open mobile application for Android (News - Alert) and iOS devices will be available for download from June 1. Like usopen.com, the mobile app's tablet-friendly design will allow fans on the go to access live video, photos, real-time scoring and tweets on Android, iPhone and tablet devices. In addition, they can stream radio and utilize social media to interact with ESPN (News - Alert) Radio analysts.