And then there are the drones. Intel says it'll be using these to "create never-seen-before images in the sky," similar to the fancy light show it showcased during Lady Gaga's Super Bowl 51 half-time performance. The company has also brought drones to an NBA All-Star game before, where it used one of its high-tech flyinf devices to help a player in the Slam Dunk Contest. "Bringing together the two visions," said IOC President Thomas Bach, "will allow us to make a great progress with regards to the experience of the games."

As for which virtual reality headsets are expected to be compatible with Intel's plans, Krzanich mentioned Gear VR, Daydream and "one of the tethered" devices. Ultimately, he said, it's about giving viewers a whole new way to enjoy the games from wherever they may be.