Product Description

For all the stat-keeping virtues of Babolat Play, there are a couple of limitations to the technology. For one thing, it's expensive. $350 for a racquet is steep, especially for players that require multiple frames. And while the AeroPro and Pure Drive are extremely popular options, and having Play embedded in the handle keeps the specs identical to the standard versions-something external stats devices don't do-the racquets are still not for everyone. Babolat POP solves both those problems. The performance wearable does many of the same things of the Babolat Play frames, but in a less expensive ($90) and universal package. Available this fall, POP is a lightweight wristband containing a data collecting sensor that is compatible with any frame and pairs with an Android or iOS device. The stats won't be quite as accurate or refined as with Play frames-since it's on the player's wrist and not the frame impact location will not be available-but type of shot-including volleys, which is new to Play-spin, power, session time, and longest rally are some of the numbers it will record. Besides analyzing playing data, the other notable feature of POP is the challenges that can be issued between users. Through the app a POP player can propose a stroke contest to a fellow wearer, and based on performance metrics, the app will determine a winner. So say I make a 25 serve challenge (it could be any number of serves) to a frequent playing partner, which he accepts, the next time we both play-independently or with each other-the app will determine which of our 25 serves won the challenge. The purpose of the friendly competition-besides enjoyment-is to spur tennis participation and interaction between members of the Babolat connected community; it started with the Play frames, and by creating a more affordable, easy to use device with no allegiance to brand or model, the company is doubling down on the concept. Not only can players more readily get their playing stats, but they