An era has arrived in which golfers can turn to artificial intelligence (AI) for answers to golf rules so complex that even professional players find them confusing.
The United States Golf Association (USGA) said on the 27th (local time) that it is piloting a "Rules AI" app designed to help golfers around the world understand and access the rules of golf more easily.
Developed in partnership with accounting and consulting firm Deloitte, the app is built on approximately 25,000 rules-related questions previously handled by USGA staff and rules experts.
"Our goal has always been to make the Rules of Golf easy for everyone to understand and to help golfers find the information they need to play fairly, enjoyably and confidently," USGA CEO Mike Whan said. "By combining vast data with cutting-edge AI technology, we are building a bridge between tradition and innovation. Rules AI is designed to make it easier for golfers to look up the Rules of Golf anytime, anywhere."
Rules AI is currently being rolled out to golf clubs in phases through the Golf Handicap and Information Network (GHIN), which is operated by the USGA. After improvements based on the pilot program, the app will be distributed to all golfers. The USGA aims to make it available to all GHIN users by next spring. The association also plans to expand access to Rules AI to other golf apps.
