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Category: Hardware

  • Samsung working on tech breakthrough for 27-inch QD-Oled monitors for esports

    Samsung working on tech breakthrough for 27-inch QD-Oled monitors for esports

    MUMBAI: For gaming enthusiasts, this could be a godsend. Samsung Electronics’ offshoot Samsung Display is currently working on a new Oled display monitor which would have a record refresh rate, according to reports appearing in south Korean media. The size of the panel: 27 inches. The resolution: QHD/1440p or 2560X1440 pixels. 

    Samsung Display combined quantum dot and Oled technologies, and achieved a 500Hz refresh rate for the first time ever in an Oled display. The display is in the final stage of development as Samsung seeks potential partners in the gaming monitor business. Hope is that commercial manufacture should begin soon and the new panel should arrive in the market during H1 2025.  Some say the launch could happen at CES in Las Vegas. The product is targeted at the esports market. 

    QD-Oled panels reportedly offer superior color vibrancy, deeper contrast, and improved performance compared to traditional LCDs. This aligns with a broader trend among display manufacturers like LG Display and Samsung Display, which  compete to push the boundaries of high-refresh-rate Oled  monitors in various sizes and resolutions. Samsung’s  achievement has outpaced the displays of both Asus and LG which have a maximum refresh rate of 480Hz.

    Research firms have pointed out that while  annual global monitor growth is expected to take place at one per cent between now and 2028, Oled displays are expected to grow at 34 per cent per annum on an average in the same period.

    According to online panel analyst, FlatPanelsHD , 2025 could come up with a new trend for 27-inch QD-Oled and WOled monitors.Chinese firm  Light Soul is burning the midnight oil and is planning to release a 27-inch QD-Oled monitor with a 4k resolution, a 240 Hz refresh rate and 1000 nits of peak brightness. 

    On the larger screen front, LG is likely to come out with a 45 inch WOled panel with a resolution greater than the existing 3440×1440 pixel resolution. Expectations are that it could touch  5120×2160 pixels. This could spark off another trend for monitor manufacturers and developers.

  • C-DAC Chennai partners with Nav Wireless for groundbreaking Li-Fi technologies

    C-DAC Chennai partners with Nav Wireless for groundbreaking Li-Fi technologies

    Mumbai: The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Chennai, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), signed a transfer of technology (ToT) agreement with Nav Wireless Technologies Pvt. Ltd. for the deployment and commercialisation of two cutting-edge technologies: NLOS VICINITY and ILLUMINATE. The agreement was formalised on 28 November 2024 at Electronics Niketan, New Delhi, by C-DAC Chennai, scientist F & centre head, D. Ethirajan and Nav Wireless Technologies Pvt. Ltd, head of the embedded department, Hardik Raval.

    MeitY secretary, IAS, S. Krishnan applauded the partnership, highlighting its transformative potential. “These technologies embody the power of public-private collaboration in fostering innovation,” he stated. He praised the perseverance of C-DAC over two and a half years in developing these solutions and the entrepreneurial initiative of Nav Wireless Technologies in embracing them for deployment.

    The two technologies, developed under the R&D project titled ‘Visible Light Communication-Based LED Lighting Solutions’, are set to revolutionise communication and lighting control.

    . NLOS VICINITY: A Non-Line-Of-Sight Visible Light Communication (VLC) system designed for indoor positioning, proximity advertising, and navigation.

    . ILLUMINATE: A VLC-enabled smart indoor lighting and control system ideal for RF-free zones.

    Both technologies leverage Visible Light Communication (VLC)/Li-Fi, which uses light waves instead of radio waves for data transmission. Li-Fi offers faster speeds, enhanced security, and greater energy efficiency, making it a transformative alternative to Wi-Fi. It is especially valuable for applications in smart cities, hospitals, airports, and defence sectors, thanks to its minimal electromagnetic interference and robust security features.

    The agreement aims to make these solutions widely available and highlights India’s capacity to lead the global Li-Fi market amidst growing digital economy and infrastructure initiatives.

    C-DAC Chennai and Nav Wireless Technologies will collaborate to drive the commercial success of these innovations, creating scalable solutions for industries ranging from advertising to critical infrastructure.

    The event was attended by key dignitaries, including MeitY additional secretary, IAS, Bhuvnesh Kumar; MeitY, JS&FA, Rajesh Singh; MeitY, scientist G & group coordinator (R&D in CC&BT), S. K. Marwaha; and other senior officials from MeitY and C-DAC, alongside representatives from Nav Wireless Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

     

  • Mitul Shah leapfrogs from Apple to Google

    Mitul Shah leapfrogs from Apple to Google

    MUMBAI: Apple’s loss is Google’s gain. The former’s head of consumer sales Mitul Shah has hopped onto Google as managing director – Google devices & services, India. He is leading Pixel’s sales and expansion in the country.

    Shah had worked at Apple for a good nine years, rising up the ranks as  head – assisted sales to head -consumer sales when he decided to move on from the innovative megacorp.

    Prior to that, Shah had also spent five years at Accenture, based in Gurgaon, working in sectors such as consumer goods and life sciences. He also had a stint with Infosys Technologies focusing on the areas of retail, CPG and logistics.

    Says Shah: “It’s an honor to be part of a company that’s at the forefront of innovation, and I’m particularly thrilled to be working on a product that has the potential to put the magic and power of AI in the pockets of millions of people across my beloved country. Pixel is not just another device. It’s an absolute privilege to be part of this story, to bring the best of Google to Indian consumers and build a more connected and empowered society. “

  • Sterlite Tech’s shaky Q2 signals challenges ahead amid global demand contraction

    Sterlite Tech’s shaky Q2 signals challenges ahead amid global demand contraction

    Mumbai: Why, in a world ruled by the invisible hands of technology, do tech giants stumble through uneven financial terrain? Despite their omnipresence in our lives, tech companies often hit the rocks at least once each fiscal year—and Sterlite Technologies Limited (STL) is no exception. For STL, a powerhouse in optical and digital solutions, Q2 FY25 exposed more than just numbers. Faced with contracting demand, squeezed margins, and a fading grip on last year’s benchmarks, STL’s latest performance tells a tale of turbulence that reveals just how volatile the road to digital dominance can be.

    STL reported consolidated revenues of Rs 1,413 crore for the quarter ending 30 September 2024, a 16 per cent increase from the previous quarter. This growth, however, fails to mask the underlying challenges. Compared to the same quarter last year, revenues have slid by 5.4 per cent, down from Rs 1,494 crore in Q2 FY24. This revenue dip reflects broader market contractions, especially in STL’s core optical fibre cable (OFC) and optical connectivity (OC) businesses, which have been grappling with supply chain constraints and price pressures globally.

    In financial performance, STL’s EBITDA reached Rs 151 crore, marking a 63 per cent QoQ increase. However, this positive quarter-over-quarter rise sharply contrasts with the year-over-year trend, as EBITDA plummeted by 30 per cent from Rs 216 crore in Q2 FY24. STL’s EBITDA margin now stands at 10.7 per cent, a steep decline from 14.4 per cent last year, signalling weakened profitability across its core sectors.

    The optical networking division, historically the backbone of STL’s business, continues to struggle. OFC volumes have decreased on an annual basis, underscoring the persistent demand softness that has plagued the company’s market segments. A more concerning aspect is the drop in Optical Connectivity attach rates from prior peaks, weakening STL’s market positioning. The segment generated Rs 1,027 crore in revenue this quarter, a reduction of 5.3 per cent YoY, despite modest QoQ growth. EBITDA margins within this segment also fell to 12.9 per cent, compared to 19.4 per cent in the same period last year, driven by higher operational costs and reduced OFC sales volumes.

    Moreover, STL’s digital services division faced hurdles, with quarterly revenue declining to Rs 64 crore from Rs 78 crore YoY, reflecting a 17.9 per cent decrease. Losses within the digital business narrowed slightly, yet the unit continues to operate at a deficit, posting an EBITDA loss of Rs 15 crore.

    Despite its revenue decline, STL achieved several key client acquisitions, securing projects in the US and UK, including a new partnership with Netomnia. However, these wins are tempered by STL’s broader market contraction and reduced OFC demand worldwide, as highlighted by a projected global market growth of only 4.3 per cent CAGR from 2022 to 2028. Although STL’s management expresses optimism for demand recovery, these short-term volume reductions underscore systemic weaknesses.

    The company’s recent financials have cast doubt over its ability to maintain the growth trajectory seen in prior years. With H1 FY25 net losses mounting to Rs 60 crore, STL’s debt profile has also become a point of concern. Net debt stood at Rs 2,169 crore at the end of H1 FY25, accompanied by a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74. This leverage, coupled with reduced earnings, limits STL’s flexibility to navigate the industry’s tightening margins and escalating global competition.

    As STL embarks on its demerger of the Global Services business, the separation process itself may introduce further operational complexities and transitional costs. Scheduled for completion by Q3 FY25, this demerger aims to bolster STL’s core focus on optical and digital solutions, yet the timing appears precarious given the present fiscal constraints.

    For now, STL’s path to stability appears fraught with challenges. A combination of cost restructuring and a recalibrated growth strategy may be crucial if STL is to weather the industry’s cyclical headwinds and regain investor confidence in the coming quarters.

  • Paramount Communications soars with 46.1 per cent growth YoY in Q2 FY25

    Paramount Communications soars with 46.1 per cent growth YoY in Q2 FY25

    Mumbai: In a world that prides itself on wireless connectivity, the humble cable remains indispensable, quietly powering our digital lives and delivering seamless connections. As another quarter dawns, Paramount Communications Ltd., a stalwart in India’s cables and pipes industry, emerges with a balance sheet that shines just as brightly as its sturdy wires. The company’s Q2 FY25 financial results reveal a story of resilience and growth, with gains in revenue and profitability that underscore its strategic prowess and market strength. Against the backdrop of growing demand in the telecommunications, energy, and infrastructure sectors, Paramount’s latest performance showcases the results of steady expansion and commitment to value creation.

    For the quarter ending 30 September 2024, Paramount posted a revenue from operations of Rs 35,210.10 lakh, a notable 28.3 per cent increase from Rs 27,452.30 lakh in Q2 FY24. In the first half of FY25, revenues totaled Rs 67,694.55 lakh, representing a remarkable 46.1 per cent growth year-over-year (YoY). This robust expansion reflects heightened demand for Paramount’s products, particularly in the expanding cable sector, which contributed significantly to the earnings momentum. Cables remain Paramount’s largest revenue driver, contributing Rs 66,541.68 lakh over the half-year period, up from Rs 46,082.64 lakh during the same timeframe last year.

    The company’s pipes segment, though smaller in scale, also exhibited a compelling growth rate. Revenue here reached Rs 1,260.98 lakh in H1 FY25, a nearly six-fold increase over the Rs 215.31 lakh reported in H1 FY24. This sector growth is driven by Paramount’s increased penetration into infrastructure and irrigation projects, which are anticipated to remain robust revenue contributors for the foreseeable future.

    Paramount’s profitability surged alongside its revenue growth. In Q2 FY25, the company’s profit before tax (PBT) reached Rs 2,911.32 lakh, up from Rs 1,950.12 lakh in Q2 FY24, marking a 49.3 per cent increase. Paramount’s net profit for Q2 FY25 also rose by an impressive 40.8 per cent, closing at Rs 2,033.11 lakh compared to Rs 1,948.92 lakh in the previous fiscal year.

    Additionally, Paramount’s margin enhancements reflect the company’s ongoing efficiency measures and prudent cost management. The cost of materials consumed in Q2 FY25, though rising due to increased production volumes, remained well-managed, totaling Rs 28,845.71 lakh. Meanwhile, operating expenses such as finance costs were reduced to Rs 170.20 lakh, showcasing an ability to maintain financial discipline amidst scaling operations.

    A closer look at Paramount’s balance sheet shows a robust position with total assets reaching Rs 83,041.21 lakh as of 30 September 2024, up from Rs 68,540.52 lakh in the previous year—a 21.2 per cent increase. Key non-current assets like property and equipment saw a strong increase, with capital investment in plant and equipment growing to Rs 16,268.12 lakh, reflecting Paramount’s commitment to expanding its production capabilities.

    Equity shares also increased from Rs 4,773.70 lakh in September 2023 to Rs 6,098.70 lakh in September 2024, largely attributed to strategic equity issuance and the conversion of equity share warrants. Notably, the company’s equity base expanded by 54.5 per cent over the past year, strengthening Paramount’s long-term financial foundation. Total borrowings, on the other hand, were reduced significantly, reflecting a strategic focus on improving the capital structure.

    Paramount’s cash flow statement underscores the company’s operational resilience. Cash from operating activities (CFO) reached Rs 5,687.33 lakh in H1 FY25, a substantial turnaround from the previous year’s cash outflow of Rs 3,491.53 lakh. The improvement is mainly due to better working capital management, with receivables turnover reducing from prior levels.

    Further investments in the business, including a purchase of property and equipment totaling Rs 2,688.19 lakh, highlight Paramount’s commitment to enhancing manufacturing capabilities. Despite these investments, Paramount’s financial strategy enabled it to maintain positive cash flow, signalling preparedness for future growth.

    The results affirm Paramount Communications Ltd.’s strategic growth trajectory, supported by a balanced approach to expansion and operational efficiency. As the cables and pipes markets continue to grow, the company appears well-positioned to leverage its improved capacity and sectoral demand. Paramount’s focus on capturing rising demand across telecommunications, energy, and infrastructure sectors has paid off, with impressive gains in both top-line and bottom-line figures. Looking forward, the company’s expanded production capabilities and reduced debt load place it favourably for sustained growth in these booming sectors.

  • Birla Cable’s Q2 FY25: Profit slump despite revenue growth

    Birla Cable’s Q2 FY25: Profit slump despite revenue growth

    Mumbai: In the post-pandemic world, where homes turned into workspaces and streaming hubs, ultra-fast internet became a lifeline, tethering us to a digital reality. But behind those seamless connections lies the backbone of fibre optic networks, powered by companies like Birla Cable. Yet, even as the demand for digital infrastructure surges, Birla Cable finds itself navigating choppy waters. The company’s Q2 FY25 financial results, released on October 24, show revenue climbing, but rising operational costs have squeezed profits, casting a shadow over an otherwise bright sector.

    For Q2 FY25, Birla Cable reported a standalone revenue from operations of Rs 18,171.67 lakh, reflecting a 4 per cent year-over-year increase from Rs 17,470.86 lakh in Q2 FY24. Consolidated revenue also improved, reaching Rs 18,274.92 lakh, up from Rs 17,761.15 lakh in the same quarter last year. This proliferation in revenue, while encouraging, wasn’t sufficient to shield the company’s profit from erosion due to escalating costs.

    Net profit for the quarter plummeted drastically to Rs 200.49 lakh on a standalone basis—a 62 per cent dip compared to Rs 529.80 lakh in Q2 FY24. The consolidated profit mirrored this trend, declining to Rs 181.97 lakh from Rs 504.65 lakh the previous year. The profit drop was intensified by rising raw material costs, which reached Rs 14,426.19 lakh for standalone operations—a 5.7 per cent increase from the preceding quarter.

    Operational costs across the board contributed to the decline in profitability. Total expenses rose to Rs 18,013.94 lakh, a significant jump from Rs 17,060.28 lakh in Q2 FY24. Employee expenses stayed steady at approximately Rs 840 lakh, while finance costs soared to Rs 395.05 lakh from Rs 327.87 lakh in the previous year. Depreciation expenses added further strain, climbing to Rs 383.01 lakh, indicating investments in infrastructure that are yet to yield returns.

    One bright spot was the other comprehensive income (OCI), which surged to Rs 1,683.36 lakh from Rs 661.69 lakh in the prior year on a standalone basis. However, this gain primarily reflected revaluations in investment portfolios and other non-core elements, which have limited impact on operational performance.

    The cash flow statement shows a decline in cash and cash equivalents to Rs 10.19 lakh by the end of Q2, a stark reduction from Rs 23.30 lakh in the same period last year. This drop stems from increased operating expenses and reduced cash generation, with net cash flow from operating activities down to Rs 5,082.14 lakh. This cash compression hints at tighter liquidity, potentially influencing the company’s future capital expenditures.

    Birla Cable’s Q2 FY25 financial results underscore a revenue-positive but profit-challenged quarter, reflecting the complex interplay of market demand and rising costs. As a leader in India’s cable manufacturing sector, Birla Cable’s future profitability will likely depend on its capacity to manage costs amidst fluctuating raw material prices and financial expenses. While revenue growth suggests demand resilience, sustaining profitability will require cost discipline and a favourable macroeconomic environment.

  • Formovie launches cutting-edge Cinema Edge projector for home theatres

    Formovie launches cutting-edge Cinema Edge projector for home theatres

    Mumbai: Formovie, a Mi ecosystem company co-founded by Appotronics Corporation and Xiaomi Technology, unveils the highly anticipated Cinema Edge projector, revolutionising home entertainment. Officially launched on 15 October 2024, and distributed in India by Aytexcel Pvt. Ltd., this premium laser device is set to elevate your home theatre experience with its innovative design and futuristic capabilities.

    The Cinema Edge projector, part of the Edge series, delivers exceptional picture quality, stunning brightness, and next-generation specifications for an immersive viewing experience. Its direct integration of Google TV and Netflix eliminates the need for external devices, allowing users to enjoy their favourite shows and movies directly from the projector.

    Aytexcel Pvt. Ltd, founder, Sushil Motwani emphasises, “The home entertainment segment in India is undergoing a major transformation. In keeping with these shifts, the brand-new Cinema Edge projector promises to turn your living room into a state-of-the-art home theatre. Unlike traditional projectors that require a capacious space to operate, this advanced device delivers stunning, high-definition visuals even in compact places. Whether you are a fan of laser TVs, a home theatre enthusiast, or just interested in cutting-Edge projection technology, the Formovie Cinema Edge 4K UST Laser TV projector is sure to impress.”

    The Cinema Edge features the latest Advanced Laser Phosphor Display (ALPD®) technology with 4K resolution, providing vibrant and lifelike colours. Its MEMC technology enhances fast-moving images, making it ideal for action movies, sports events, and gaming sessions, delivering exceptional sharpness. A 3000:1 contrast ratio, along with HDR10 and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), ensures flawless representation of deep dark tones and bright colours.

    With ultra-short throw properties, the Cinema Edge achieves a throw ratio of just 0.23:1, transforming even the smallest rooms into entertainment zones. Users need only a 49 cm distance to project a stunning 150-inch screen.

    The device enriches the cinematic experience with dynamic audio, featuring dual-certified DTS-HD and Dolby Audio support. Powered by 2 X 15-watt speakers from the global leader Bowers & Wilkins, it delivers a full-bodied, natural sound for an unparalleled listening experience.

    Integrated with Google Assistant, the voice button on the remote control allows effortless operation. The Edge projector also offers various connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and wireless capabilities, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.

    Boasting dimensions of 456x308x91mm and an elegant design, it stands out as one of the smartest and most aesthetically pleasing portable projectors. Thanks to Wi-Fi 6 technology, it provides faster internet connectivity for uninterrupted streaming and browsing.

    The Formovie Cinema Edge is more than just a projector; it is a gateway to a new world of entertainment. Priced at Rs 2,85,000, it will be available on the Formovie India website and Amazon.in. Home theatre enthusiasts can experience its features firsthand at Formovie experience lounges.

  • Cobalt Digital’s new IP focused products awarded at IBC2024  

    Cobalt Digital’s new IP focused products awarded at IBC2024  

    AMSTERDAM: Cobalt Digital, the designer and manufacturer of award-winning edge devices for live video production and master control, and a founding partner in the openGear® initiative brought innovative solutions to IBC designed to streamline a path to IP and was rewarded with two best of show awards.

    The two winners were tapped as exceptional standouts in Cobalt’s stand that was crowded with ground-breaking, IP focused products. The Cobalt UltraBlue IP-MV multiviewer won best of show in the TVB Europe category, and the Indigo OG-21100-Bidi4-Gateway took home the same honour in the TV Tech one. 
     
    The awards recognise the very best media and broadcast technology products and solutions on display at IBC2024, with hundreds of products and solutions considered. All entries were reviewed by a panel of industry experts and editors at the Rai. Factors taken into account include how diverse and comprehensive the product’s features are; how easy it is to use and how it integrates with other products; how well it solves a problem for the user; and how innovative and unique it is within the market.
     
    The new Cobalt UltraBlue IP-MV multiviewer can be provided as a turnkey solution with four HDMI heads, or as a software package to run on customer-supplied dedicated hardware, delivering maximum flexibility.  Features include support for receiving audio/video content over IP across a variety of protocols and formats with very flexible audio routing, bringing a multitude of options to suit every application.
     
    Winner in the TV Tech category and a member of the company’s Indigo platform, the Cobalt ® Indigo OG-2110-Bidi4-Gateway has native SMPTE ST 2110 support in an openGear® format card with dual 25G ethernet interfaces for ST 2022-7 support. The card is a bidirectional quad channel native ST 2110 interface to SDI I/O, and the transmit and receive paths of the gateway can operate simultaneously. The gateway  also includes support for IS-04/IS-05 NMOS for automatic discovery and configuration.
     
    “We are so grateful to both TVB Europe and TV Tech for these enormous honors,” said Cobalt Digital senior vice-president of worldwide sales & marketing Suzana Brady. “Our products are all developed to accommodate the requirements of our customers, and IP is a predominant factor during all our conversations, so we know we hit the mark with our lineup. But it is also reassuring to know that the journalists and judges that review and evaluate all the new technology in the industry acknowledged our products as some of the best on the entire show floor.”
     
    The awards’ editorial team said that “IBC2024 has been busier than ever this year, with over 1,300 companies showcasing their latest innovations. Our awards followed suit with this popularity and more were entered than ever before.. judging and winner selections were extremely difficult this year, feedback from our judges confirmed that the standard across the board was incredible. To all those companies who have won, you can be truly proud of your company’s achievements in standing out amongst the crowd at IBC2024.”
     

  • IBC2024 grows across the board as AI Takes centre stage

    IBC2024 grows across the board as AI Takes centre stage

    AMSTERDAM: It has been a record breaking year at IBC2024 with the Amsterdam confab attracting 45,085 visitors from 170 countries – a jump of more than 2,000 as compared to the previous year. On top of that 100 additional exhibitors put up their stands in the 14 halls covering 46,000 square metres of space (as against 44,500 square metres in 2023) in Amsterdam’s RAI with their count adding up to 1,350 Many participants opined that IBC2024 was the busiest four days they have had this year as execuitves from the global media, entertainment and technology community came together to connect, showcase and discover innovations, tackle pressing industry challenges, and explore new opportunities. 

    Across a bustling show floor and packed theatres, IBC2024 addressed critical trends and issues driving change across the media landscape, such as combatting false information and fake news, while offering new show features, such as the AI Tech Zone, and IBC Talent Programme.

    “IBC continued on an upward trajectory in 2024, with tremendous turnout across the entire IBC community as people gathered in Amsterdam to explore the technological advances and market dynamics redefining our industry,” said IBC CEO Michael Crimp.. “In a year marked by major events such as the Olympics and national elections, there was an extremely positive buzz at IBC2024. This year’s show addressed soaring interest in trends such as AI’s leap from theory to real-world applications, how the industry is fighting disinformation in news, and the need to foster talent and diversity across media, entertainment and technology.”

    Other themes that took centre stage at IBC2024 included sustainability, 5G, cloud, esports, immersive experiences, over-the-top (OTT) and streaming, adtech, metaverse, edge computing, and connected technologies. Many of these were addressed in the three-day IBC Conference, relocated to the Auditorium Complex at the RAI, as well as in the various show floor theatres and by many of the exhibitors themselves on their stands.

    A number of IBC2024’s defining themes were also focuses of the IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme, which this year included another IBC first: the AI Media Production Lab, exploring a series of projects in which some of the industry’s most inventive innovators collaborated on specific AI concepts. One of the hottest Accelerator projects – also addressed in the IBC Conference – was ‘Design Your Weapons in the Fight Against Disinformation’, which aimed to develop an industry-wide?understanding?of the challenges and abuses being faced today by all media outlets in helping audiences identify trustworthy news and information.

    The new AI Tech Zone, powered by EBU, was packed with visitors engaging with leading innovators on practical applications ranging from automated video editing and music-audio separation to content provenance tracking and fast and secure cloud storage. Then Zone stage featured AI pioneers sharing insights into how the technology will impact the future and how it is already transforming media in areas such as discoverability, news verification, and creating immersive experiences.

    Another exciting new feature at IBC2024 was the Audio Visual (AV) buyers’ event on the eve of the show. Working with the AV User Group, media technology companies at the show were able to actively engage with major AV purchasers such as Arup, AstraZeneca, Bank of America, Barclays, Deliveroo, Direct Line Group, KPMG, Schroders, Sopra Steria, UBS, and WPP.

    The inaugural, free-to-attend IBC Talent Programme featured lively and engaged discussions on mentoring the industry’s next generation, recruitment challenges, and the importance of diverse perspectives for driving innovation. The programme was preceded by the World Skills Café, run by Global Media and Entertainment Manifesto, which took place at the RAI the day before the show.

    Leading global media technology brands exhibiting at IBC2024 included Arabsat, Arri, Avid, AWS, Blackmagic, BT Media, Canon, Comcast, Eutelsat, Evertz, EVS, Google, Grass Valley, Harmonic, Huawei, Imagine Communications, LG, Lawo, LTN, Mediakind, Microsoft, Nagra, Panasonic, Riedel, Ross Video, Samsung, SES, Sony, Tata Comms Media, Telestream, Zero Density, Zixi, and ZTE. There were also 150+ new exhibitors at the show, including 5G Broadcast Collective, CDN Alliance, Datacamp, Eosos, Frequency Networks, Medianet Berlin, Strada, SwXch IO, and Vubiquity, while Benro, Insta360, Robe, The Weather Company, Vecima – plus Yamaha returned to the show for the first time since 2019.

    “In the last few years, IBC has gone from strength to strength, with exhibitors continuing to find more ways to make the most of the show as we add new features and grow its scope and reach,” said IBC Director Steve Connolly. “The feedback we get is incredibly positive, with many seeing IBC evolving as an increasingly important incubator of media tech innovation, as well as maintaining our status as an essential networking destination and source of intelligence on new industry trends and developments.”

  • Sports innovation efforts lead at IBC2024 Innovation Awards

    Sports innovation efforts lead at IBC2024 Innovation Awards

    AMSTERDAM –The winners of the IBC Innovation Awards – which recognise collaborative efforts to develop solutions that address real-world industry challenges – were announced on 15 August at the Rai Amsterdam. They consisted of five categories: content creation, distribution, content everywhere, social impact, and environment and sustainability. 

    With 2024 being the year of big sporting events like the Olympics and UEFA European football championships, four of the five winners were those who had innovated in this area. 

     “Recognising and fostering industry innovation at every level is core to what IBC does, and these awards play a critical role in honouring and encouraging truly ground-breaking work,” said IBC CEO Michael Crimp. “This year’s expanded awards spotlight the fact that there are many areas in which we are seeing the media community collaborate to take us in new, exciting directions. I congratulate this year’s winners for demonstrating the co-operation, imagination and determination needed to really impact our industry.”

    The winners in the five IBC Innovation Awards categories were: 

    Content Creation
    * Olympic Broadcasting Services and partners for live broadcast production with more than 200 smartphones contributing video for the Paris 2024 opening ceremony and a sea-based 5G network for sailing competitions in Marseille.

    Content Distribution
    * The National Hockey League, in partnership with Verizon, AWS, Zixi, Vizrt and Evertz, for producing a 5G and Edge compute framework for assembly, control and delivery of live broadcast.

    Content Everywhere
    * LaLiga for working with Play Anywhere and Ease Live to enable true fan interactivity for itself and its worldwide broadcast and streaming partners.  

    Social Impact
    * Sesame Workshop for its Watch Play Learn Distribution Hub, which allows government agencies and aid organisations to preview and request videos for children in crisis settings.

    Environment & Sustainability 
    * France Télévisions for reducing CO2 emissions by 300 tonnes via a pioneering 100 per cent glass-to-glass cloud production and private 5G network, as it broadcast a 24/7 channel providing coverage of the Olympic torch relay for Paris 2024.

    Also at the 2024 Innovation Awards, this year’s IBC International Honour for Excellence (IHFE) – announced in August – was formally presented to Ukraine’s Mstyslav Chernov for his work as a video journalist and filmmaker. Chernov directed 20 Days in Maripoul, the multi-award-winning documentary chronicling the siege of the city by Russian forces in 2022, when he and his Associated Press (AP) team were among the last journalists there. He previously covered conflicts in Iraq, Syria, and Nagorno-Karabakh (in Azerbaijan) and the return of the Taliban to Afghanistan after the US withdrawal.
    The Best Technical Paper Award, another pre-announced honour presented at the Innovation Awards, was given to Joshua Maraval, Nicolas Ramin, and Lu Zhang for their paper Advancements in Radiance Field Techniques for Volumetric Video Generation: A Technical Overview. The authors, who are from the Institut de Recherche Technologique,  and the Institut d’Electronique et des Technologies du numéRique, were seeking an efficient solution to the complex problem of capturing and rendering volumetric video for three-dimensional VR experiences.