Winter Olympics spotlight immersive AI tech from Alibaba

Cloud broadcasting, AI replays and sustainability tools aim to modernise Winter Olympic operations and reduce environmental impact.
Alibaba has unveiled Wonder on Ice, an AI-powered Olympic showcase blending cloud computing, virtual retail and immersive fan engagement at Milano Cortina 2026.

Alibaba Group has launched ‘Wonder on Ice,’ an interactive AI showcase at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, blending AI and cloud computing to enhance fan engagement. The installation sits in Milan’s Piazza del Castello, set against the historic Castello Sforzesco.

Designed as an immersive space, the showcase highlights AI-powered virtual retail and interactive Olympic experiences. Visitors enter a snow-globe-inspired pavilion where AI guides them through tailored content based on their individual interests.

The opening featured IOC President Kirsty Coventry and Alibaba Chairman Joe Tsai, underscoring a focus on accessibility, sustainability, and global connectivity. The activation also unveiled AIGC Championship winners, with AI-generated winter sports artworks displayed throughout the Games.

Alibaba’s broader Olympic technology programme includes cloud-based broadcasting, AI-driven 360-degree replays, and sustainability systems for energy and carbon optimisation, powered by its Qwen AI models.

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