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MLB restricts dugout iPad use to prevent use of AI to make decisions
By AP via Scripps News Group at KXXV (ABC 25) News
· July 17, 2026
· 1 min read
Major League Baseball is restricting iPad usage in dugouts to prevent the tablets from running artificial intelligence to help make decisions.The tablets have access to video and league-provided data, and also included a custom tab where teams could access other programs. MLB made the custom tabs...
Key takeaway The memo, first reported by The Athletic, was obtained by The Associated Press.
Why this matters in The Waco
The move by Major League Baseball to restrict iPad usage in dugouts has implications for the local baseball community in Waco . As the use of technology in sports continues to evolve, it's likely that similar discussions will take place at the high school and collegiate levels in McLennan County. Local coaches and athletic directors may be watching how this restriction plays out in the professional league, considering how to balance the use of technology with traditional coaching decisions. The fact that MLB had to take steps to prevent the use of artificial intelligence to make in-game decisions raises questions about the role of technology in local sports, and whether similar restrictions might be necessary to maintain a level playing field. As the city's baseball fans follow the rest of the MLB season, they'll also be interested in seeing how this change affects the game locally.
About this story
Original reporting by KXXV (ABC 25) News . The Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KXXV (ABC 25) News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 17, 2026 ·
Source: KXXV (ABC 25) News ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Major League Baseball is restricting iPad usage in dugouts to prevent the tablets from running artificial intelligence to help make decisions.The tablets have access to video and league-provided data, and also included a custom tab where teams could access other programs. MLB made the custom tabs...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 17, 2026 by KXXV (ABC 25) News and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by AP via Scripps News Group at KXXV (ABC 25) News. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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