Every four years, athletes are tested in their skills as the world comes together to celebrate the Olympic Games. Over the years, the level of attention and care given to fulfilling every material comfort and need of athletes to allow them to be at the peak of performance when time comes has been incorporated into the logistics of the event. For the supporters, its a whole different story, and this year with the games being held in Rio de Janeiro, there is even a language barrier that tourists would have to overcome.
Even as far back as the Sydney Olympics the logistics and movement of the massive influx of people was a nightmare for organisers. This year, however, things are a bit different. With the world connected through smartphones, there are countless apps available to make your life as a tourist easier.
The Olympics
This is the best application to view all the information regarding the games. Being the official app for the Rio Olympics and released by the International Olympic Committee, this app displays all the game schedules, lets you track different teams and also gives you highlights of past events and during the games, will show highlights of the 2016 Olympics.
Download: The Olympics
Olympic Social Hub
Like to connect with your favourite athletes on social media and follow their Instagram feed, then this is the app for you. The official app for the Rio Olympics that connects athletes (only after their accounts are verified) to their fan base. It posts their social media updates and releases information to let you virtually stalk your favourite teams and Olympians.
Download: Olympic Social Hub
Olympic Athletes Hub
For budding Olympians, this is an exclusive app that lets you connect with each other during the Rio de Janeiro games later in this year. Its a platform that is exclusive to Olympians and though it has all the features of the Olympics Social Hub app, the only difference is that this app lets you connect with the other athletes that are partaking in the games this year.
Download: Olympic Athletes Hub
BBC Sport
The official BBC Sport’s app that gives a comprehensive coverage of any sports. For the Olympics, this would include giving timely updates for the main events. The app also gives information about other, non-Olympic sports that are having major play-offs during the same period.
Download: BBC Sport
Toilet Finder
Though Rio is considered a developing nation, it does not mean that you can take a piss anywhere and everywhere. Knowing that sometimes, as a tourist, it is really difficult to find a washroom when you need one, this app comes to the rescue. The Toilet Finder, does exactly what it’s name says it does, and hopefully that helps you avoid embarrassing situations.
Download: Toilet Finder
TripAdvisor
One of the best apps to give you a brief overview of the city and let you plan your activities that are outside of the Olympic arena. Filled with details on accommodation, nightlife and activities, this is a must have app before your Rio trip and definitely something to refer to during the Olympics.
Download: TripAdvisor
Brazil Travel Guide
Well, this is a no-brainer. Given you are travelling in Brazil and would like to indulge in the sights and sounds the Country has to offer, there is no better way than planning such an escapade. This application covers it all, right from giving you insights to cultural places and places of historical significance, to guiding you to the best party in town.
Download: Brazil Travel Guide
NBC Olympics Highlights
Another sports news company that has made a name in covering the Olympics, NBC’s own app now offers that same coverage but on a versatile mobile platform. This app also gives access to past event information, country standings and highlights from the Beijing and London Olympics.
Download: NBC Olympic Highlights
For now, these are the best apps to keep you updated on the 2016 Rio Olympic Games happening this year. Though most of the apps here would cover your most essential needs as a tourist in Rio this year, if you come across any other apps that should be added, do let us know.
To all athletes partaking in the games this year, the team here at Android Beat, would like to wish you well. Citius, Altius, Fortius!
