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Smart Golf Balls are Here

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A little over a month ago, I wrote an article that discussed the future of golf in 2018.  One of the things that piqued a lot of interest was OnCore’s Genius smartball.

Basically, the Genius will provide golfers with the same data you can get from a Trackman: (1) GPS location within 1-foot accuracy; (2) shot velocity (off the tee and average); (3) carry flight within 1 foot; (4) degree of draw or fade; (5) spin rate (back, side, front); (6) angle of descent; (7) height apex; and (8) roll distance.

The only hitch is the projected pricing: $50 for a 2-pack.

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Well, it looks like OnCore isn’t the only player in town.  Coachlabs, maker of the DuoTrac sensor system, recently released the GEN i1 smart ball.

Similar to the Genius, the GEN i1 ball contains a nine-axis sensor that can detect: (1) the ball’s initial direction; (2) impact force; (3) speed; and (4) rotation.  But then you pair the ball with the GEN i1 putter sensor, and you’re also be provided with: (1) the putter’s face angle; (2) tempo; (3) forward stroke; and (4) back stroke.

Use Bluetooth and pair the ball and putter sensor with the GEN i1 smart phone app and you’ve basically got a putting coach that will suggest some drills (e.g., long distance putting, short distance putting, and putting straight) and pointers to help you improve with the flat stick.

And if you happen to get board with all the practice, there’s also a few game modes you can entertain yourself with.

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But there’s a catch.

First, the GEN i1 can only be used for putting.  Second, the GEN i1 is also $120.  For one ball.

Suddenly, the OnCore Genius looks very affordable.

That said, a GEN i2 ball is currently under development that will focus on full-swing and all non-putting shot data, including direction, spin rate, distance, and speed.  In addition, a GEN i3 ball is also under development that is intended for indoor use and could be used as a self-contained golf simulator that wouldn’t require any additional launch monitor or clubhead sensors.

While it’s still early, the GEN i3 certainly has my attention.

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There’s no question that amateur golfers are craving an affordable Trackman/Foresight simulator option.  Clearly, the GEN i1, i2, and i3 are all going to shake up that market-segment that’s largely occupied by SkyTrak’s simulators.

Add in OnCore’s Genius, which is more geared at being a gamer ball as opposed to a training device, and it’s very clear that the next big thing in golf-tech is going to be the smart ball.

At this point, it’s probably just a matter of time until we the OEMs start developing their own offerings.


Cover Image Via Instagram

Ever since golf became a competitive outlet, nothing brings Eric more joy than a well struck 4 iron. And despite living in NYC, Eric makes it a priority to work on his game and fitness during the week, along with a round or two over the weekend. Fortunately, he’s got a very understanding fiancé who (for the time being) accepts him and his obsession. Follow Eric on IG @hozel_rocket.

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