RunSignup’s new Photo Integration feature – soon to be available in the RaceDay Mobile Timing App– was recently put to the test by Tony Sapp, from Negative Split Productions. Tony tried out the Version 5 Beta version of the Mobile Timing App, which introduces real-time photo capture integration with bib tagging and participant results. The free app is for timers to use as a scoring backup and for timing smaller or remote events where RFID technology isn’t feasible.
Real-Time Photo Capture Integration
RunSignup’s Mobile Timing App Version 5 introduces a game-changing feature: real-time photo capture integration. This new capability allows race timers to capture photos directly within the app, instantly auto-tag bibs, and post images in real-time to participants’ results pages and the event’s photo gallery. Previously, event organizers had to manually upload photos for auto-tagging—a step now completely bypassed, making the process seamless and immediate.
Testing at Texas 10 Sienna
Tony put the new features to the test at Texas 10 Sienna, setting up three different phones to capture race moments at different points:
- Pixel 9XL Pro (his personal phone): Used to take photos of the start, various race site moments, and the awards ceremony.
- Pixel 7a: Positioned at the 10-mile split point to capture mid-race photos.
- OnePlus N200: Set up just before the finish line to capture final approach images.
He specifically chose the OnePlus N200, an ultra-budget phone costing under $100 on Amazon, to evaluate the app’s performance on lower-end hardware. Tony also purposely gave volunteers limited instructions to see how they responded. He simply instructe them to take photos whenever they saw a participant.
Key Findings
Tony is highly impressed with the app’s performance, specifically noting:
- Instantaneous Uploads: Photos uploaded almost immediately, ensuring quick accessibility.
- Real-Time Bib Tagging: The automatic bib tagging feature worked nearly instantaneously, accurately linking runners with their results.
- High Photo Quality: Even images from the budget-friendly OnePlus N200 were surprisingly clear and effective for bib recognition.
Example Photos
Next Steps and Future Applications
Building on the success of this test, Tony is now coordinating with his photography team to deploy the technology at the upcoming Houston Kids Tri. He also plans to explore innovative applications, such as displaying live race photos on a large screen at event sites.
The insights gained from Tony and other timers testing Version 5 are helping refine the app’s functionality, ensuring it becomes an essential tool for race timers and event organizers.
Exciting News: The new photo capture integration feature will be available for all timers—moving out of beta—next week! Stay tuned for further updates.