ITV

Category: Applications

  • UNICEF, Ayushmann Khurrana and public-private-youth partners launch ‘YouthHub’ platform in India

    UNICEF, Ayushmann Khurrana and public-private-youth partners launch ‘YouthHub’ platform in India

    Mumbai:  UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell joined UNICEF India national ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana, government officials, the private sector and young people launched an innovative, digital YouthHub app to connect young people in India to future job opportunities, especially girls and marginalised youth.

    The platform, which functions as a digital ecosystem, was jointly launched by them along with Mr. Shombi Sharp (United Nations Resident Coordinator in India), Smt. Meeta Rajivlochan(Hon’ble Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports), Ms. Cynthia McCaffrey (Representative, UNICEF India), Mr. Ashwin Yardi (CEO, Capgemini India), Mr. Ranen Banerjee(Government Sector Leader, PwC India), Ms. Vandana Bahri(Head, Skills and Livelihood, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation – CIFF India), Ms. Dhuwarakha Sriram (Chief of YuWaah, Youth Development, and Partnerships at UNICEF),Mr. Abhishek Gupta (COO, YuWaah at UNICEF) and two young leaders – Ms. Zakira Ganji and Ms. Jagriti Pandey.

    The YouthHub – co-created by YuWaah at UNICEF, PwC India, Capgemini, and CIFF – aims to connect young people to curated jobs, skills, and volunteering opportunities, and enable access especially for girls and youth from marginalised backgrounds. In its first phase, which was launched on Tuesday, the YouthHubapp has become accessible to young individuals via the Google Playstore. Serving as a unified platform, it offers free access to aggregated job opportunities in nine Indian languages, simplifying the job search process for young people.

    Intersecting technology and innovation, the hub is a ‘one-stop’application that integrates diverse platforms, tools, and resources, which aggregates curated economic opportunities for young people. The launch of the YouthHub marks a significant step in convening public, private, and youth partners to foster a generation of informed and skilled young people who can transition well from learning to earning.

    Russell is visiting India this week to meet with government officials, members of the private sector as well as young people, children and some of India’s frontline community workers.

    Russell said, “Investing in children and youth is the best way to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals and create a brighter future for generations to come. Collaborative initiatives such as this YouthHub are a good way to reduce inequalities and ensure that girls are included and have access to future job opportunities. We can create a lasting impact when young people are involved in decision-making and when their voices are heard.”

    Khurrana said, “Being a UNICEF India National Ambassador has allowed me to peek into the lives, dreams, and hurdles faced by the children and young people of our country. They are our future, and ensuring they have a fair shot at success is not just a choice, it’s our duty. YouthHub app byYuWaah at UNICEF and partners is like a script for success for every young person in India. It’s not just a platform; it’s a dream factory that opens up doors to economic, skilling, and volunteering opportunities. But it’s much more than that. It’s a symbol of hope and the belief that every youngster, no matter their gender or background, deserves a shot at greatness. And we begin with equal opportunities for all. That’s what theYouthHub app will extend to young people.”

  • Astrum’s study explores ‘Technology Reshaping Communicators?’

    Astrum’s study explores ‘Technology Reshaping Communicators?’

    Mumbai: Astrum, India’s first science-based specialist reputation advisory has unveiled a first-of-its-kind study in the Indian public relations industry titled “Technology Reshaping Communicators.” This study combines months of rigorous secondary research and views of a diverse panel of Indian and global thought leaders, representing consulting firms, technology corporations, law firms, media editorial boards, international academics, private equity investors, global CXOs, senior corporate communication leaders, and a multitude of industry experts.

    Commenting on the study’s release, Astrum Reputation Advisory chairman Sunil Lulla chairman said, “In today’s digital era, communicators are continually navigating the dynamic intersection of technology and communications. This groundbreaking study delves deep into key questions that communicators are grappling with due to the rapid and recent advancements in technology. The study seeks to equip professionals with the knowledge and insights, necessary to thrive in this transformative environment.”

    Founding managing partner Ashwani Singla said, “Technology has reshaped our world for over two centuries from the advent of the printed word to the internet. What sets this digital era apart is the unprecedented pace and scale of advancements. It’s a landscape where machines can attain superhuman intelligence and harnessed for a greater good, yet capable of dismantling established brands within hours.” He adds, “In navigating this new paradigm of reputation management, a combination of technology and human ingenuity layered with an understanding of the science of reputation™ can enable communicators to completely transform their game.”

    Co-founder and author of the study Sharada Sharma said, “We are seeing that the impact on communications is threefold: one, in revolutionizing data assimilation for deeper insights into audience behaviour; two, transforming content creation distribution and consumption and, three, an investment in crisis preparedness/risk mitigation to secure corporate or brand reputation – each needs a holistic approach with sponsorship from the C-suite.”

    The study’s findings were unveiled at the tenth edition of PRAXIS10 – Reputation Management – The Big Picture, the largest annual gathering of communication professionals. The unveiling took place at “The Astrum Breakfast” (#TAB), an exclusive invitee only event that brought together leaders in corporate communication. An executive summary of the report was made available to all participants via a QR code, ensuring widespread access to the insights presented in the study.

  • Onsitego & Hardik Pandya partner to expand device protection category in India

    Onsitego & Hardik Pandya partner to expand device protection category in India

    Mumbai: Onsitego, India’s leading device care company, has announced its partnership with Hardik Pandya, India’s cricketing sensation. Hardik Pandya will be the new face of the brand and will help Onsitego expand the device protection category in India.

    Onsitego has been the flag bearer of the device protection category for over a decade in India. The company has covered more than 1.5 crore devices through its extended warranty & damage protection plans. As per Onsitego, penetration of device protection plans is in low single digits in India v/s above 25 per cent in developed markets. This under-penetration shows a clear lack of consumer awareness and presents a huge opportunity for the category to grow.

    By joining hands with Hardik Pandya, Onsitego aims to improve consumer awareness about the benefits of device protection plans. The combined impact of Onsitego’s presence across over 10,000 retail stores & Hardik’s influence amongst consumers will fuel the next stage of growth in the device protection market.

    Commenting on the strategic partnership, Onsitego Founder & CEO Kunal Mahipal said, “We are thrilled to welcome Hardik Pandya to the Onsitego family. Just as Hardik exemplifies leadership & excellence in cricket, Onsitego embodies leadership & excellence in the device care category. With Hardik on board, we look forward to expanding the device care category and continuing to offer the best in class service experience to consumers across the country.”

    Hardik Pandya, vice captain of India’s white ball cricket team, said, “As a consumer, I understand the pain whenever a device does not work properly & we all need a reliable partner like Onsitego to take care of them.”

    “I look forward to being a part of this exciting journey & contributing towards Onsitego’s mission of delivering WOW experience to all customers.” added Hardik, who is exclusively managed by RISE Worldwide.

  • VDO.AI reinvents brand engagement with Dexter

    VDO.AI reinvents brand engagement with Dexter

    Mumbai: VDO.AI, a leader in the advertising technology industry, unveils Dexter, a game-changing creative feature poised to redefine brand engagement by harnessing the power of innovative Gen AI algorithms. In today’s fast-paced digital arena, brand engagement isn’t just crucial; it’s the lifeblood of success. Recognising the ever-evolving landscape of consumer expectations, VDO.AI introduces Dexter, a groundbreaking tool that will revolutionise how brands connect with their audiences.

    Dexter is a testament to the fusion of creativity and technology. It leverages the capabilities of Gen AI algorithms to empower brands with the ability to craft deeply personalised, contextually relevant, and visually stunning content. By understanding individual user preferences, Dexter ensures that brands can deliver messages that resonate deeply, fostering authentic connections. Moreover, this avant-garde technology streamlines content creation, enabling brands to deliver the right message at precisely the right moment.

    Key Features of Dexter:

    •    Personalisation perfected: Dexter analyses user data to create bespoke content that speaks directly to individual preferences, thereby boosting user engagement and retention.
    •    Contextual brilliance: Understanding the context of user interactions, Dexter ensures that brands provide timely and relatable content, forging more profound connections.
    •    Visual mastery: Dexter elevates visual elements, creating attention-grabbing and memorable content that lingers in the minds of the audience.
    •    User-friendly integration: Dexter effortlessly integrates into existing marketing strategies, making it accessible and adaptable for brands of all sizes.

    The launch of Dexter represents a significant milestone in VDO.AI’s relentless pursuit of innovation in the digital advertising arena. Brands that embrace Dexter can anticipate heightened user engagement, increased conversion rates, and strengthened brand loyalty.

    VDO.AI CEO and founder Amitt Sharma shared his excitement about Dexter: “We find ourselves on the verge of a groundbreaking era in brand-consumer interaction. Dexter empowers us to establish dynamic connections with our audiences, converting passive observers into engaged participants. This achievement signifies a pivotal milestone in amplifying customer engagement and loyalty, as it allows us to harness the interactive potential that AI offers—a facet that brands have yet to fully explore.”

    “We are thrilled to introduce Dexter to the market. In a landscape where user engagement is king, Dexter empowers brands to create authentic, impactful connections. This innovation is set to reshape the very foundations of digital advertising.” added VDO.AI co-founder Arjit Sachdeva.

    Dexter is now available, offering forward-thinking brands an opportunity to elevate their brand engagement strategies. It unlocks endless avenues for brands to explore novel approaches, fostering innovation that resonates on multiple levels of engagement.

  • Ajay Devgn’s NY VFXWAALA has been honoured with the ‘Collaboration Excellence’ Award by Autodesk

    Ajay Devgn’s NY VFXWAALA has been honoured with the ‘Collaboration Excellence’ Award by Autodesk

    Mumbai: Ajay Devgn’s VFX company, NY VFXWAALA, has made a significant impact on enriching the cinematic experience with state-of-the-art technologies. They have been part of several blockbuster projects such as Ponniyan Selvan 1 and 2, Bholaa, Jawaan, Drishyam2, Sooryavanshi, Tu Jhooti Mai Makkar, Tanhaji:The Unsung Warrior, Sardaar Udham , Gangubai Kathiawadi, Runway34, Vaarisu, Waltair Variyya among others, which have earned immense appreciation for their scale.

    In recognition of their consistent efforts to enhance visual experiences, Autodesk, the world-renowned software company, has awarded NY VFXWAALA the prestigious ‘Collaboration Excellence’ award at the Autodesk Imagine Awards 2023. This accolade underscores the outstanding synergy between Autodesk’s innovative software solutions and NY VFXWAALA’s visionary approach to visual effects.

    This recognition highlights the power of collaboration, demonstrating that when technology and artistry unite, extraordinary results are achieved. It celebrates Autodesk and NY VFXWAALA’s joint contribution to shaping the creative future.

     

  • Cinedeck launches ConneX at IBC

    Cinedeck launches ConneX at IBC

    Mumbai: Cinedeck has launched ConneX, its flexible and scalable media processing platform, ahead of IBC 2023. Delivering media workflow automation, ConneX’s award winning capture, conform, and media processing technologies enable media companies to batch process and edit files seamlessly and cost-effectively.

    ConneX delivers a wealth of media-focused features without users needing to write code or invest in expensive software. It offers services to trim, rewrap and transcode content, as well as restripe timecodes and captions, insert edits (including audio WAV extraction and metadata edits), and move or copy content within databases or the cloud.

    Thanks to a number of third party integrations, ConneX provides the media industry with revolutionary workflows to overhaul usage of video and audio content. Its latest integrations include Filmworkz, allowing users to seamlessly restore, digitize, and reversion content; Qscan for automated file quality control; as well as enabling cloud storage workflows with Backblaze and Wasabi.

    Cinedeck chief operating officer Jane Sung commented, “Cinedeck’s objective is to optimize workflows within media. ConneX delivers intelligent automation to enable quick and cost-effective content management and processing. Our technologies provide broadcasters with the tools they need to manage and edit content, without having to deploy costly software, allowing them to maximize their catalog and improve ROI. ConneX’s partnerships allow our customers to manage their content using intuitive and feature-rich workflows which integrate seamlessly with required platforms.”

  • Pyramid Analytics and Smollan forge international partnership

    Pyramid Analytics and Smollan forge international partnership

    Mumbai: Global retail specialists Smollan have formalised an international reseller and implementation partnership agreement with next-generation decision and business intelligence (BI) software provider Pyramid Analytics. The agreement will see Smollan, via its data and technology business, DataOrbis, expanding its current service offering to include the ability to both sell Pyramid Analytics licenses and implement Pyramid Analytics software.

    “Our clients operate in incredibly competitive industries, where the ability to make the best decision, quickly is the key to strong performance. Our hunt for a BI solution that delivers superior functionality, excellent value, and next-generation capability led us to Pyramid Analytics. We migrated the majority of our DataOrbis solutions onto their software last year, and already our clients are noticing a step-change in how we can help them capitalise on the explosive amount of data they have at their fingertips,” said Smollan’s chief executive: data & technology James Collett.

    The Pyramid Analytics partnership also provides DataOrbis with a growth opportunity geared at expanding DataOrbis’ services and footprint into verticals outside of the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) space where they have traditionally played. This is further supported by DataOrbis and Smollan’s global footprint, which includes operations in all major gateways.

    “DataOrbis has an excellent understanding of what it takes to implement a successful data strategy across an organisation, regardless of industry. We are incredibly excited to be partnering with them   internationally. By leveraging their global presence throughout their client and partner networks, I believe DataOrbis, together with Pyramid Analytics, can streamline and optimise their data analytics ecosystems to prepare them for what’s next. We are thrilled to have them on board,” said Pyramid Analytics CEO Omri Kohl.

    The Pyramid Platform consistently receives top ratings among leading analyst firms that evaluate business intelligence and analytics technologies. Most recently, Pyramid earned top rankings from Gartner in the 2023 Critical Capabilities for Analytics and Business Intelligence Platforms report, including #1 for business analyst use case, #1 for augmented consumer use case, #2 for data scientist use case, and #4 for analytics developer use case.

    The Pyramid Platform consolidates data preparation, business analytics, and data science into a single, integrated, self-service platform that can be accessed by all levels of data users.  

    “The time it takes for a decision-maker to access data can make or break a company’s competitive advantage. Pyramid Analytics reduces the amount of time it takes users across the organisation to easily find the information they need without having to request it from IT. It’s a win-win for both users and overly stretched IT departments,” said Kohl.

    Implementation is key to success

    As the need to unlock the power of data has accelerated, businesses are realising the benefit of having one enterprise BI platform across the organisation, ensuring a single source of truth that can be safely, securely, and ethically managed. As an early adopter, DataOrbis has invested in creating and upskilling several Pyramid Analytics’ implementation teams working out of South Africa, India, and Slovenia to assist clients in creating and implementing their own unique global views. These teams, with over 50 certified Pyramid Analytics specialists, include senior resources with expertise across industries and geographies.  

    “The choice of BI platform is one part of the insights puzzle. The skill and time needed to implement the software is the next piece. In our experience, most companies don’t have these two vital resources readily available. By partnering with DataOrbis we can ensure the Pyramid Analytics software is expertly implemented and used to its fullest potential—all based on global best-practises. I am excited by the opportunities the Pyramid Analytics partnership will unlock for us and our clients,” said Collett.

  • GroupM launches new hyperlocal audience targeting solution for addressable TV

    GroupM launches new hyperlocal audience targeting solution for addressable TV

    Mumbai: GroupM, WPP’s media investment group, has announced the launch of Geo Granularity, a hyperlocal and granular targeting technology developed by Finecast, the addressable TV solution of GroupM Nexus. Engineered for high-quality broadcaster inventories on the big screen, the new technology has been enhanced from broader pin code level targeting to granular 1000-meter geo-targeting, allowing advertisers to zero in on more defined audiences for their campaigns.

    Traditionally, a pin code in India could comprise hundreds of thousands of households. By zooming in on a smaller geographical area – narrowed down to a one square kilometre grid – advertisers can enjoy improved proficiency and optimised ad spend through Finecast’s audience planning technology that targets specific households based on consumer affluence, behaviour, and demographics.

    Covering an expansive area of 26,000 square kilometres across India’s top cities, this innovative solution was developed using proprietary geo-spatial technology and is the country’s first ever initiative of its kind, offering unparalleled targeting capabilities exclusively designed for TV advertisers. Each square kilometre grid incorporates a wide range of valuable data points which are meticulously refined and integrated using Finecast’s audience planning technology. The comprehensive data empowers advertisers to create precisely targeted campaigns that resonate with their intended audience.

    Studies have shown that users who are shown relevant ads are more likely to have a positive experience with the advertiser’s brand, resulting in better engagement, higher click-through rates, and ultimately, more conversions.

    All GroupM clients will be able to harness the benefits from this geo-targeting solution via their media planners.

    GroupM South Asia CEO Prasanth Kumar said,“Finecast’s Geo Granularity technology is a game-changer for businesses seeking to achieve more targeted and hyperlocal TV advertising across high-quality broadcaster inventories. This innovative solution will revolutionize the way advertisers approach TV advertising by offering a more precise and coherent approach to targeting specific geographic areas. By reaching potential customers in their local markets, businesses can enjoy higher relevance, better consumer experience, and ultimately, more conversions.”

    GroupM India data, performance & digital products president Atique Kazi said, “With Geo Granularity’s innovative targeting strategy, businesses can leverage the increased flexibility to connect with captive audiences and grow their brand equity. GroupM Nexus’ Finecast has continued to be a trailblazer in addressable TV by developing technology like Geo Granularity that’s revolutionising the industry by providing advertisers with stronger outcomes and higher return of investment.”

  • Network18 ropes in Sunil Sharma to lead tech transformation

    Network18 ropes in Sunil Sharma to lead tech transformation

    Mumbai: Network18 has announced the appointment of Sunil Sharma as chief product & technology officer. 

    In his new role, Sharma will lead the group’s convergence and digital technology initiatives, including tech architecture, content, data and monetisation management tools, software and product engineering for all general and business news brands under the group’s umbrella.  

    He will focus on disruptive technologies such as generative AI to improve processes, develop audiences, localise stories and distribute content efficiently.

    Sharma will report to Network18’s managing director Rahul Joshi, and work closely with other leaders to foster a strong tech and product DNA across Network18 brands.

    Sharma brings with him over two decades of ‘Big Tech’ experience in software product development across sectors such as telecom, retail, media streaming and EdTech businesses. Prior to joining Network18, Sharma was vice president of engineering at Byju’s, where he spearheaded customer experience and customer support technology initiatives. Before that, he served at Amazon for over seven years, making notable contributions in retail, logistics, and Prime Video. 

    Rajat Nigam will continue to lead as the Group CTO, spearheading overall broadcast tech efforts, including broadcast IT/infrastructure, technology operations, cyber security, enterprise IT and cloud & infra operations. He will also mentor and guide Sharma. 

    With some recent appointments, Network18 has marked a departure from regular practices of recruiting talent from the same industry. The group is building its tech strength by roping in resources from diverse sectors such as big tech, startups etc. 

    In the last few months, the group has made significant progress in unifying its digital and broadcast teams across editorial, business and operations.

    As part of this process, the group’s broadcast and digital news operations are being converged, keeping technology at the core of it.

    From story planning to content consumption on any and every device, the company’s goal is to deliver a top-class experience and conceptualise solutions that will enrich the story-telling experience, paint a picture of audiences in granular detail and help customers to attain maximum value.

  • LTN to showcase award-winning cloud and IP-powered technologies at NAB Show 2023

    Mumbai: LTN, the industry leader in transformative media technology and video transport solutions, today announces it will be demonstrating its innovative cloud and IP-powered product portfolio at this year’s NAB Show in Las Vegas. Visitors meeting at LTN’s booth (#W2621), will experience the future of media through LTN’s reliable IP and cloud solutions that enable new digital monetization opportunities while driving cost efficiencies.

    LTN will be displaying its extensive product portfolio that effectively equips customers with the tools that they need to creatively grow audiences and revenue. These services include how IP-based transmission solution LTN Wave provides media companies with flexible, reliable, and intelligent alternatives to satellite distribution. Wave creates next-generation distribution and contribution possibilities including the ability to manage complex rights deals and the associated requirements for ad signalling across multiple platforms.

    LTN will also showcase LTN Arc, the fully managed, cloud-enabled production solution that handles every aspect of live event versioning for rights holders and sports broadcasters, and LTN Lift, the cloud-based playout solution with automated versioning capabilities to seamlessly spin up new channels and deliver customized programming across digital/OTT/FAST services.

     “Amid challenging macroeconomic conditions, it is more vital than ever for businesses to unlock new revenue streams and achieve game-changing efficiencies,” said LTN executive chairman and co-founder Malik Khan. “LTN keeps its finger on the media industry’s pulse to ensure content providers are empowered with the right technologies to succeed and grow, navigating ever-increasing digital complexity and audience fragmentation. We are looking forward to demonstrating our latest innovation at NAB Show 2023 and discussing the future technology and business trends that will shape our industry’s future.”