One of the leading names in the launch monitor/indoor golf simulator business is revealing a new indoor-only product. After several years in development, Denmark-based TrackMan A/S has introduced the iO, the company’s first product built for indoor-only use in their twenty-year history.
Currently the company has their Trackman 4 launch monitor positioned as their top offering, but it is dual purpose, for use both indoor and outdoors. They assert that the iO is not a replacement for it, but an option for those only looking for indoor use, at both a commercial and personal level. It addresses the major growth in the indoor simulator market, and it appears TrackMan feels they can make further inroads there with a product that has different options and intentions.
“When we started Trackman 20 years ago, I never imagined golf simulators would become a cornerstone of our business,” said Trackman co-founder and CEO Klaus Eldrup-Jørgensen. “For so long indoor golf was gimmicky and far away from the real game. But our team has changed that perception in a big way, and with Trackman iO we are taking the next step in an excitng journey.”
Unlike the TrackMan 4 which is positioned on the floor behind the user where it can collect the necessary measurements from the golfer, the iO is ceiling mounted. It uses both radar and high speed infrared imaging for capture what the company calls “the full range of ball data and select club data”. Unlike the TM4 that required extra space behind the user, the position above means the iO user only needs the space to swing the golf club safely. That makes it more suitable for users with limited space, often the case in the home market.
“We didn’t develop Trackman iO to replace the Trackman 4,” said Fredrik Tuxen, Trackman inventor and CTO. “We developed Trackman iO to be the best possible product for indoor golf. To create the most enjoyable and hassle-free indoor golf experience. To precisely replicate the results you would get outside — all in a compact, elegant device. And we believe that is exactly what we have done.”
Added Tuxen: “Both Trackman 4 and Trackman iO are truly great indoor golf tracking engines. If your main focus is practice, player development and fitting, or you enjoy the versatility of both indoor and outdoor use, Trackman 4 will typically be the go-to product. If your focus is on playing virtual golf and entertainment games at home, Trackman iO might end up as the more likely choice.”
The TrackMan iO will be offered in three standard set-ups. The first will catch the attention of home users. The Trackman iO Home bundle, which includes 30 virtual golf courses, three top games and access to the full range of Trackman quality ball data, starts at (USD)$13,995. Home Complete and Commercial bundles, which include 300+ virtual courses, all games, all ball data and select club data, start at (USD) $21,495. The Commercial package also includes access to business management tools at no extra charge.
“Our products are the best in the market, and the best comes at a premium,” asserts Eldrup-Jørgensen. “With Trackman iO, we are thrilled to make Trackman simulators more affordable for home owners and invite more golfers to experience the best way to play indoors.”
