The current headlines show the dynamism of the Winter Olympics: on the one hand, records are being broken, while on the other, the IOC is already considering structural adjustments such as earlier competition dates to counter the effects of rising temperatures – one of many indications of how strongly external factors, particularly climatic and technological ones, will influence winter sports in the future.

Safety-critical automation in the alpine environment

Against this backdrop, AI-based systems are gaining strategic importance. What is being tested today in infrastructure and training could shape the entire operation of winter sports destinations tomorrow. One highly acclaimed example is the autonomous cable car system AURO from the Austrian company Doppelmayr, which uses sensor fusion, image processing, and AI-supported decision-making logic to enable largely driverless lift operation. While AURO CLD is revolutionizing the autonomous operation of the exit area of chairlifts, according to the Austrians, AURO Assist focuses on the entry area. Using AI-supported image recognition and state-of-the-art camera technology, the seating position of passengers is monitored and the system is stopped in potentially dangerous situations. Such solutions show that safety-critical automation in the alpine environment is already industrially manageable – a prerequisite for more advanced applications such as robotic ski instructors or autonomous training assistants.

Winter sports outside traditional ski resorts

At the same time, AI is spreading throughout the entire winter sports value chain. Data-driven snowmaking control, intelligent slope preparation, and dynamic visitor guidance optimize operating costs and resource utilization. On the training side, wearables with pressure and motion analysis enable personalized real-time feedback, while AI-supported video and 3D motion analysis objectively evaluate technical parameters and make training processes scalable. Mixed reality simulations additionally shift learning to digital spaces outside of traditional ski resorts.

New business models for the industry

This is giving rise to new business models for industrial decision-makers. Hardware providers are developing robust sensor and robotics platforms for extreme environmental conditions, while software companies are monetizing data analysis, coaching algorithms, and platform services. At the same time, competition is shifting from isolated products to integrated experience ecosystems in which infrastructure, training, equipment, and digital services are networked.

Social acceptance and economic integration put to the test

Regulatory issues such as liability, safety, and data protection remain central. Autonomous systems in open ski areas require certified collision avoidance, redundant sensor technology, and clear operating standards. However, experience with automated cable cars shows that high levels of safety are technically achievable. Therefore, social acceptance and economic integration will be more decisive than feasibility.

Addressing structural challenges in winter tourism

Economically, AI-supported solutions could help address the structural challenges of winter sports, primarily the shortage of skilled workers, rising costs, and climate-related uncertainties that are increasing pressure on tourist facilities. Automated training and operating models create additional sources of revenue, extend the usage times of existing infrastructure, and enable data-based services independent of snow conditions or season.

The Olympic Games as a showcase for technological change

The current Olympic Games are thus not only a major sporting event, but also a showcase for technological change. It is no bold prediction to say that robotics and AI will develop from experimental add-ons to potential core technologies for winter sports. The industry can derive a clear strategic imperative from this: expertise in safety-critical autonomy, biomechanical data analysis, and platform-based business models will determine who shapes the next stage of development in an increasingly digitalized sports and tourism industry.