Endless Surf and Flowstate are uniting to merge artificial intelligence (AI), computer vision, and programmable wave technology, creating a revolutionary system that transforms how surfers experience their sessions.
The wave pool sector is evolving, reshaping our interaction with surfing.
This strategic alliance aims to enhance the technological framework for surf park operators while offering a more individualized experience for surfers.
The partnership fuses Endless Surf‘s adaptable wave technology with Flowstate’s AI-driven computer vision, automated video, and analytics platform.
Flowstate will seamlessly integrate with Endless Surf’s current software suite, which includes Surf Concierge, Swell Studio, and Wave Doctor.
This technology will also be implemented in upcoming Endless Surf lagoons, aiding in camera placement and optimizing media capture.
However, the partnership extends beyond just video capabilities.
They are set to develop innovative applications focusing on personalized wave delivery, immersive media experiences, coaching and skill progression, as well as operational analytics.
The Mixtape: Tailored Waves for Every Surfer
The inaugural product from this collaboration is named The Mixtape.
In development for almost two years, this system addresses a common challenge in surf parks: varying skill levels among friends and family who wish to ride different types of waves.
Rather than forcing everyone into a single wave type, The Mixtape empowers each surfer to select their desired waves prior to entering the water.
Flowstate’s computer vision technology tracks individual surfers in real time as they navigate the lineup.
This data connects to Endless Surf’s Swell Studio software, which manages the characteristics of the waves produced.
The outcome is a shared session where each surfer can experience a different wave type.
For instance, an advanced surfer might receive a high-performance wave, while a less experienced companion could enjoy an intermediate wave.
Another group member might opt for a slower, more manageable wave.
All surfers remain together in the same session.
No wearables, RFID tags, or manual controls are necessary. Surfers simply paddle into position, and the system takes care of the rest.
Customized Waves in a Collective Session
Traditionally, surf park sessions have been organized by broad categories like skill level and wave type.
The Mixtape shifts the emphasis from the group to the individual. What’s the process? Before paddling out, surfers select the waves they wish to ride.
Flowstate’s computer vision recognizes them as they approach the takeoff zone, while Endless Surf modifies the wave characteristics accordingly.
This combination of real-time surfer identification and programmable wave generation makes the system feasible.
“The Mixtape merges the two most advanced technologies in their respective domains, enhancing the already unique Endless Surf experience with a more personalized touch,” stated Paul Chutter, president of Endless Surf.
“Surfers can enjoy long rides with friends and family while each receiving the wave they desire, and operators gain a completely new session product to offer their guests,” Chutter added.
“After nearly two years of development, The Mixtape is the first demonstration of what we can achieve by integrating these technologies.”
Flowstate CEO Luke Wallace noted that the technology addresses a common limitation faced when surfing with friends and family.
“Surfing with friends or family typically requires everyone to want the same type of wave, or you end up in separate sessions,” Wallace explained.
“The Mixtape changes that dynamic.”
According to Wallace, surfers choose their preferred waves, Flowstate identifies them as they paddle into position, and Endless Surf delivers the corresponding wave.
“No tapping in, no wearables, and no RFID required,” he emphasized. “The entire process occurs seamlessly in the background, wave after wave.”
Expanding Beyond Wave Selection
The partnership is not confined to personalized waves.
Flowstate’s integration with Endless Surf is also anticipated to facilitate automated multi-angle video capture.
Endless Surf lagoons boast multiple surfing zones and clear sightlines, providing opportunities for cameras to capture rides from various angles.
The companies are also developing AI-driven coaching and progression tools that could assist surfers in analyzing their performance and tracking their improvement.
For surf park operators, this technology could offer an additional layer of intelligence by linking surfing, guest, and operational data.
This could help operators understand how different areas of a lagoon are utilized, how guests interact with the facility, and how sessions perform.
The Mixtape is the first product to emerge from the Endless Surf-Flowstate collaboration.
More broadly, this partnership signifies a growing trend towards technology that transcends mere wave generation.
AI, computer vision, automated media, and data analytics are increasingly becoming integral to the surf park experience, both in the water and behind the scenes.