Introducing the gBall

Over the years, Google's Australian engineers have turned their minds to solving a number of complex computer science problems. Readers of this blog will know that we've applied our technology to Australia's federal elections, public transport and the Great Barrier Reef.

Today, however, we're bringing Google technology to perhaps a far more important field - Australian rules football.

In partnership with the official supplier of matchballs to the AFL, Sherrin, we've developed the gBall. It will be used in all school and amateur competitions - and go on sale to all Australians - this weekend.

With inbuilt GPS, motion sensor and artificial intelligence capabilities, the gBall has a number of amazing features, including the ability to measure kicks, get kicking tips, notify talent scouts and locate your lost ball on Google Maps. Quite simply, we think it's the killer footy app.

You can read more about the gBall here. The technology was all built in Australia and is unique in the sporting world. We think it really lifts the bar for other football leagues worldwide.

As a lifelong SANFL, AFL and Crows fan, this is a big moment for me, for Google Australia and - I hope - for the thousands of Australian kids who aspire to be the next Buddy Franklin, Darren Jarman or Tony Lockett.

Kick to kick will never be the same again.

Posted by Alan Noble, Head of Engineering