Robotic Cameras Expand Olympic Visual Reach The Associated Press deployed robotic and remote‑controlled cameras throughout the Milan‑Cortina 2026 Winter Games, delivering striking images from venues previously inaccessible to traditional crews [1]. These systems captured dynamic moments in speed skating, figure skating, ice hockey, curling and short‑track, enriching the visual narrative for global audiences [1]. The technology complements existing broadcast feeds, offering novel angles that enhance storytelling [2].

AP Team Installed Remote Systems Across Venues three‑person robotics team spent weeks before the Games installing and testing camera rigs at distant locations, including a goal‑level placement at the hockey arena where photographers physically crawled to fine‑tune the view [1]. The remote setups recorded high‑resolution footage transmitted live to Olympic Broadcasting Services, ensuring seamless integration with standard broadcast pipelines [1]. This marks AP’s first large‑scale operation across such widely spread Olympic sites [1].

Jordan Cowan Introduces First On‑Ice Camera Operation Former U.S. ice dancer Jordan Cowan became the inaugural on‑ice camera operator in Olympic figure‑skating history, gliding backward in a tuxedo to capture post‑program moments missed by overhead rigs [2]. He filmed Ilia Malinin’s emotional reactions after the team‑event gold win and a later free‑skate mishap, delivering the footage to national rights holders via Olympic Broadcasting Services [2]. Cowan’s lightweight gimbal rig, custom‑designed for stability and wireless transmission, allows him to stay invisible while anticipating skaters’ moves [2].

New Techniques Promise Broader Broadcast Perspectives Both AP’s robotic deployments and Cowan’s on‑ice rig represent a shift toward immersive, athlete‑level coverage, expanding the range of angles available to broadcasters [1][2]. The combined innovations aim to deliver richer, more engaging content for viewers worldwide, while maintaining safety and minimal disruption to athletes [2]. These advancements set a precedent for future Games, where remote and on‑person technologies will likely become standard practice [1][2].