Bradford City: New mobile application launched as part of EFL partnership with intechnologyWiFi
Bradford City have become the first club to benefit from the EFL's partnership with intechnologyWiFi with their new mobile app now available for download.
The landmark deal between the EFL and intechnologyWiFi will see clubs provided with official mobile applications and stadium WiFi networks across the EFL portfolio. Both services are being provided to the club at no cost.
Bradford's new official mobile app is available to download now via www.officialbradfordcityapp.com.
The new app will give Bantams fans a one-stop, 24/7, 365-days-a-year 'digital match-day experience', allowing them to read the latest news, interact on social media, check commentary and results, place a bet live, in-play on the latest action (facilitated by Sky Bet) and share content with fellow fans, wherever they are.
The app also provides a range of new revenue streams for the club, such as through digital advertising for sponsors and the provision of the betting platform.
Thanks to a revenue share agreement in place with the EFL's league sponsor, Sky Bet, every bet placed by fans will see the club take a share.
Work has started to install the WiFi network at the Northern Commercials Stadium, allowing fans to use the app in the stadium without data charges or slow connection speeds.
The stadium WiFi network will 'power' the mobile application within the stadium on match-days, allowing fans to use the app at the ground, even when congested 3G or 4G traffic usually makes it impossible.
intechnologyWiFi is able to call upon state-of-the-art equipment in the design of WiFi networks equipped for the significant burden of thousands of users at the same time. The company also possesses the in-house expertise in network planning and design, backhaul and infrastructure implementation to ensure the stadium WiFi solution is best in class, achieving optimum coverage and capacity.
Shaun Harvey, Chief Executive of the EFL, said: "EFL Digital's ground breaking deal with intechnologyWiFi represents a significant opportunity for clubs like Bradford City to engage and connect with fans in a way that they have not been able to do previously, and with zero additional investment.
"Instant access to exciting and unique content will improve fans' digital experience on match days and non-match days and the introduction of new profitable revenue streams will ensure that clubs will receive a direct financial benefit."
Michael Shackleton, Commercial Manager at Bradford City, said: "The football club is excited to bring the mobile app to all City supporters. The club sees this as a major step forward as we look to engage with our supporters through this really dynamic digital platform. The app, coupled with the stadium WiFi, will give added match day experience. It's the ideal destination for all current information about Bradford City."
Natalie Duffield, CEO at intechnologyWiFi, added: "Bradford City fans are set to enjoy a revolution to their match-day experience, whether inside or outside the stadium, through the power of our innovative mobile application and stadium WiFi network solution.
"What's more, by using the app and placing bets on their team, Bantams fans will be actively making money for their club. It's a win–win all round!
"intechnologyWiFi is truly breaking the mould for the delivery of stadium connectivity and mobile content to clubs. At no cost, we provide a WiFi technical solution within the stadium – installed and managed end-to end – allied to a world-class, club-branded mobile app, with content curated by experts around the clock."
Edwin Martin, Head of Customer Engagement, Sky Bet, said: "The launch of this app marks an exciting change for City fans and we are thrilled to be working with the EFL and intechnologyWiFi to be part of it.
"As well as revolutionising the betting experience for match-going fans, this landmark partnership will also see us pass on a share of revenue back to clubs. This goes to the heart of what we aim to achieve as a brand and as a sponsor of the EFL, which is to make betting better for football fans."