2025 NAB Show Daily News - DAY3

The Future of Broadcasting

TUESDAY

APRIL 8, 2025

April 5-9, 2025

Las Vegas Convention Center

Las Vegas, NV

First Takes and Straight Shots

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Curtis LeGeyt and Stephen A. Smith celebrate the power of storytelling

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WELCOME SESSION

Stephen A. Smith Tells Audience He’s ‘Open’ to Presidential Run

At NAB Show’s Welcome session, Curtis LeGeyt celebrates convention as a hub for storytellers

By Phil Kurz TV TECH

ESPN host Stephen A. Smith told an NAB Show audience Monday that he is open to the possibility of running for president of the United States in 2028.

“I have no desire to be a politician … but I am no longer going to close that door,” Smith said on stage during an interview with Mike McVay, president

of McVay Consulting.

Smith, host of “First Take,” recently inked a $100 million, five-year contract extension with ESPN and until recently had joked about making a run. However, over the past few weeks, he said, he’s “had no choice but to get a bit more serious about it.”

Speaking during the NAB Show Welcome, Smith told McVay and those gathered on the Main Stage in West Hall that he

reasons,” he said. “And it’s disgraceful, as far as I’m concerned, because there is no excuse for it. They veered this country in an extreme direction. They were so busy talking about the MAGA right, they didn’t look at themselves looking like the MAGA left.”

Meanwhile Republicans shouldn’t forget what they are about and rest on their laurels from an election that gave them both houses of Congress and the presidency, Smith continued.

“One party should be purged, and the other party should watch themselves because there is a mid-

I have no desire to be a politician … but I am no longer going to close that door.”

STEPHEN A. SMITH

term election coming up,” he said, “and how you feel sticking out your chest, thinking you’ve got it made right now. In a little over a year you could find yourself on the outside looking in all over again.”

Smith criticized the president over a “haphazard” approach to implementing tariffs. “Tariffs are not a bad thing,” Smith said. “I just think the way he is imposing them has been disastrous,” he said.

“He is coming across as somebody who is devoid of having a plan. If he has a plan, he is the only one who seems to be aware of it, and he’s not thinking about the ripple and collateral effect it ultimately has,” he said.

has been approached by “people on Capitol Hill,” governors and others about a run.

Smith — whose memoir is titled “Straight Shooter” — threw shade on both political parties, the Trump administration and politicians in general, saying they put their interests above the people they are elected to serve.

He described the Democratic Party as “an absolute mess.”

“It’s leaderless for a variety of

“You’re scaring the markets; you’re scaring prospective employers; you’re scaring … the American citizen.”

The session opened with Perry Sook, Nexstar chairman and CEO and chair of the NAB Board’s Executive Committee, welcoming the audience and introducing NAB President/CEO Curtis LeGeyt.

LeGeyt said the NAB expects more than 60,000 registrants from broadcasters, creators, innovators and storytellers.

ESPN host Stephen A. Smith talked politics during his interview at the NAB Show Welcome session.

Stories inspire us. They connect us in ways that nothing else can.”

CURTIS LEGEYT

“Stories inspire us. They connect us in ways that nothing else can. … In the past year, Americans wept as we grappled with the personal impacts of wars in Gaza and Ukraine. We were inspired as we watched heroes battling blazes that rippled through California neighborhoods and communities rallying together to rebuild in the aftermath of hurricanes,” he said.

“And we escaped, into the silver screen and our phones, as your storytelling swept us away to magical lands to defy gravity, and our sports heroes thrilled us in a chase to break a decades-old NHL goal-scoring record. Stories — whether real or fantasy — are the invisible threads that weave our shared human experience.”

At the heart of that experience, he said, are content producers, broadcasters, filmmakers and virtual reality pioneers. And each year, he said, nearly $17 billion in business is generated through connections made at this convention. “Nearly 1,100 exhibitors spanning 12 football fields will display their latest innovations on our show floor.”

Karen Chupka, NAB executive vice president and managing director, global connections and events, showed off a new NAB Show logo that represents the evolution of the event to meet the needs of its diverse community.

Syndicated radio personality Delilah was honored with the American Broadcasting Foundation’s Insight Award.

Heidi Raphael, chief communications officer at Beasley Media Group, and Jack Goodman, co-chair at the Law Offices of Jack N. Goodman, presented the award. ●

NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt

Radio personality Delilah accepted the American Broadcasting Foundation’s Insight Award.

NAB Executive Vice President and Managing Director Karen Chupka

NAB Executive Committee Chair Perry Sook

TRENDING NEXTGEN TV

EdgeBeam Seeks to Give TV a National Footprint

Ownership rule changes, 1.0 shutoff date crucial to successful rollout

By Tom Butts TV TECH

Four of the nation’s most prominent broadcast groups detailed plans to launch EdgeBeam, a joint venture to provide expansive, reliable and secure data delivery services via ATSC 3.0, aka NextGen TV.

The heads of Gray Media, Nexstar Media Group, E.W. Scripps and Sinclair discussed the nationwide network in a session moderated by Phil Kurz of TV Tech.

They touted the business opportunities that could arise by using ATSC 3.0 spectrum to transmit data, comparing the inadequacy of wireless IP with the one-to-many advantages of broadcast.

“The internet is architected for one-to-one streaming of video on high demand, [but] it’s not scaling the way that we hoped it would,” Nexstar’s Michael Biard said. He cited Netflix’s glitchy broadcast of the Jake Paul-Mike

Tyson fight. “Doesn’t happen in a broadcast context where you’ve got one stream going to everybody.”

EdgeBeam will be able to deliver data nationwide to any device with an ATSC 3.0 receiver, such as cars and trucks, drones, marine vessels, phones, tablets or TV sets.

ATSC 3.0 is available to about 76% of the country. To get a nationwide footprint, the executives are hoping for deregulation of ownership rules to help groups better compete with Big Tech and wireless.

“[T]hey’re all allowed to have national footprints, but … this industry is not. National footprints are more efficient,” Sinclair’s Chris Ripley said. “The antiquated rules that the industry lives under stymie innovation. We formed EdgeBeam to solve one of those issues because, together, we do have a nationwide footprint.”

Equally important in the ad-

ON THE MAIN STAGE

vancement of datacasting via 3.0 is the proposed shutoff of ATSC 1.0. The NAB has petitioned the FCC to approve a February 2028 sunset in the top 55 markets.

A shutoff will allow broadcasters to use more of their spectrum, Ripley said. “When you sunset 1.0 in 2028, you go from 9 Mbps in excess spectrum to probably something close to 100, a significant increase in spectrum available for datacasting.”

Biard added that a shutoff in 2028 “is critical to igniting the ecosystem and messaging to folks who haven’t thought about building for 3.0 yet. Once they know

that that’s coming, it’s no longer a sideshow; it is the standard through which all of our broadcast stations will operate.”

Adam Symson of Scripps said, “Datacasting represents one of the most important ways for broadcasters to create additional revenue to also help support the role we play in local markets with the news, sports and critical services that we provide in the communities across this country.”

Pat LaPlatney of Gray Media said that by the proposed full shutoff of 1.0 in 2030, more than 90% of the country could be within reach of 3.0. l

WWE’s Khan, ‘Triple H’ Headline Business Panel

WWE’s top executives — President Nick Khan and Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque — will be in Las Vegas a few weeks before WrestleMania on April 19 and 20.

As part of the NAB Show’s Business and Entertainment track, developed in collaboration with The Ankler, the executives will lead a featured panel titled “WWE: The Next Era of Sports Entertainment.”

The session will explore the ongoing evolution of WWE, including its global expansion, talent

development and its strategies for live events. Khan and Levesque will also share insights into WWE’s transition to streaming platforms and how the brand is deepening fan engagement through digital media.

The discussion will be moderated by Sean McNulty, author of The Wakeup — The Ankler’s Hollywood and media newsletter — and host of The Ankler podcast.

Khan and Levesque appear Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. on the Main Stage in West Hall, W4543. l

Michael Biard

Chris Ripley

Adam Symson Pat LaPlatney

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SHOW SHOTS

Michael Brown and Skip Parker of Rhema Media check out Wheatstone’s Tekton 32 audio console.

Bob Orban is shown with a display of legacy audio processors, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Optimod 8000.

Gaston Alvarez, virtual production supervisor for SpaceBoy, shares his work with VFX during the CineCentral Craft Clinic.

Over at the DJI booth, Ryan Richardson takes a look at the DJI Pro Car Rigging Solution with a Russian Arm. A “master wheel” and DGI Focus Pro controls it all.

A Nautel and Quu integration allows radio broadcasters to synchronize on-screen visuals with their audio content. The Virtual Radio Air Chain is on display in the Nautel booth.

PLUG-ON. STAY PUT.

SCAN ME

Can AI Outcompete Human Expertise?

Panelists look for answers on whether AI can create true art, and whether M&E employees should be worried about their jobs

By Elle Kehres RADIO WORLD

At the Creator Lab Theater in South Hall on Monday, panelists were grilled on the ethics of using artificial intelligence in the media and entertainment sector, new innovations that can streamline workflows and the ways AI can or cannot outcompete human insight.

The session “Are You Smarter Than a DeepSeek?” featured an interactive panel of four AI experts plus a brief appearance by an AI chatbot from DeepSeek, a Chinese-owned company that specializes in large language models (LLMs).

James Cohan, vice president of postproduction at Paramount, was one of the session speakers. Cohan said that in a rapidly changing media landscape, AI is an asset to creatives and should be used to its fullest extent.

“In that space, anyone who’s not

using AI is going to be outdated by everyone else who is,” Cohan said.

“It’s like saying ‘I’m going to build a house using only a hammer and nails.’ I’m sure you’re very proud about that, but the guy who’s got the nail gun is going to beat you.”

While AI still needs a human touch to guide it, Cohan said, professionals should bring it into the creative process now for efficiency’s sake and to remain competitive.

Speaker Pinar Seyhan Demirdag, co-founder and CEO of Cuebric, was not so convinced. She said it doesn’t make sense to compare humans to AI.

“To me, when comparing humans to AI in any way, it’s like me trying to run faster than a car,” Demirdag said, “and the fact that I don’t accelerate in six seconds from zero to 100 miles would cause me to be called slow and stupid.”

For speaker Xavier Kochhar, CEO of XKE, one of the pitfalls

of AI is that failure is not part of its design.

“The way human beings have advanced is our risk-taking,” Kochhar said. “AI will always optimize what has been [done] unless we teach it to fail the same way that we take huge risks.”

CAN AI MAKE ART?

Asked if AI is an effective medium for creating art, panelists’ answers were a mixed bag.

Cohan said yes, because “art is something that makes you feel an emotion.” He said using AI to craft art — whether it be visual, auditory, etc. — is only going to make the process faster and more personable.

Demirdag disagreed, saying that her definition of art is “love and divinity made public.”

She said that an entity with “no access to divinity” or to collective consciousness “can ever make art.”

One aspect of AI that does

excite Demirdag, however, is the potential to reduce prejudices in M&E. “Unless these prejudices are directly wired into AI, into AI’s data set and algorithm, AI has no reason to take bias,” she said.

When considering how AI will affect IP, or intellectual property, and whether or not it will make some roles in the workplace obsolete, Kochhar said he expects a new set of jobs to become available as companies look for more hands to manage AI tools. And despite her reservations about using AI, Demirdag offered her own sort of reassurance to attendees worried about their careers.

She said that when we worry about something, we are effectively praying for it to happen.

“I’m much more concerned about humanity’s inferiority complex in relation to AI than AI taking us over,” said Demirdag. “As long as we work on ourselves — understand our authentic truth and what makes us truly different — nobody has any power over us.”

Also speaking at the session was Irad Eyal, founder and CEO of Quickture. Matt Hanna, chief strategy officer of Quickture, was the moderator. l

From left: Irad Eyal, Pinar Seyhan Demirdag, James Cohan, Xavier Kochhar

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ON THE MAIN STAGE

Today | 10-11 a.m.

The winners of this year’s Digital Leadership Award and Engineering Achievement Awards will be honored on the NAB Show Main Stage today during the “We Are Broadcasters” ceremony.

Jeff Moriarty, chief products officer for digital products at Nexstar Media Group, is the 2025 NAB Digital Leadership Award honoree.

Created in 2015, the NAB Digital Leadership Award is presented to an individual at a broadcast station group or network

who played a significant leadership role in the digital success of a broadcast business that leverages new and emerging technologies.

Moriarty joined Nexstar in 2021 and oversees digital technologies and product development across the station group. Over his career, he has been at the intersection of technology and news, leading digital products at such prominent media companies as The New York Times Co., Gannett and

major newspaper groups across the United Kingdom. Moriarty’s launch of the first publication to utilize responsive design, BostonGlobe.com, contributed to Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage of the Boston Marathon bombings.

Beyond his corporate leadership, Moriarty serves on the board of The Local, a Stockholm-based network of news sites operating in nine European countries.

Paul R. Shulins, a 45-year radio chief engineer, is the 2025 winner of the Radio Engineering Achievement Award. Shulins is co-owner of Over the Air RF Consulting LLC, a Portland, Maine, based radio consultancy. His pioneering work in the use of drones for infrared measurements has improved performance and reduced costs for broadcasters, according to NAB.

Before becoming a consultant, Shulins was vice president and chief technology officer at Burk Technology. He spent 29 years as head of engineering at Greater Media’s five

A consulting engineer since 1997, Television Engineering Achievement Award winner Dennis W. Wallace is managing partner at Meintel, Sgrignoli & Wallace LLC, a broadcast engineering and technical consulting firm founded in 2004. He has completed hundreds of projects for clients including broadcast transmission facility design and construction, RF field testing, research and development lab testing projects, as well as numerous regulatory and policy matters.

A well-known expert on broadcast system field testing, he developed and implemented RF field test programs for the HDTV Model Station Project in Washington, D.C., and built and conducted studies and demonstrations at the ATSC 3.0 Test Station in Cleveland. Prior to his consulting practice, he held technical positions at the Advanced Television Test Center, LARCAN and several broadcast stations. l

Women in Technology Awards Returns to NAB Show Main Stage

The TV NewsCheck Women in Technology Awards returns to NAB Show, honoring visionary women driving innovation in media and entertainment technology. This year’s ceremony takes place today at 5 p.m. on the Main Stage.

This year’s honorees include Swati Karkun Sen and Jacqueline Voss of Riedel and Nina Walsh of Amazon Web Services (AWS), each receiving the Women in Technology Futurist Award for their groundbreaking contributions. Additionally, Gabby Redfern (Sky) will be honored with the Women in Technology Leadership Award, and Carys Hughes (Sky) and Catherine Koutsaris (Matrox Video) will receive the Technology Women to Watch Award.

These industry leaders have shaped the future of media technology, from pioneering operational strategies to advancing AI, private networks and sustainability. The Women in Technology Awards launched in 2009.

FM radio stations in Boston.

Dennis Wallace Jeff Moriarty

Paul Shulins

What’s Happening

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY at

(Sessions listed are as of press time and subject to change.)

TUESDAY, APRIL 8

9:30-10:15 a.m.

CINECENTRAL CRAFT CLINIC: PRESENTED BY BLACKMAGIC DESIGN

❱ N1449 CineCentral Theater (Open to all badge holders)

Join Blackmagic Design it presents an educational and topical CineCentral Craft Clinic.

10:30-11:15 a.m.

CINECENTRAL CRAFT CLINIC: PRESENTED BY FUJIFILM/FUJINON

❱ N1449 CineCentral Lab2

(Open to all badge holders)

Join Fujifilm/FUJINON as it presents an educational and topical CineCentral Craft Clinic

10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

THE SOCIETY OF CAMERA OPERATORS PRESENT: SCRIPT TO SCREEN: BLOCKING, SETTING UP THE SHOT AND GEAR

❱ N1449 CineCentral Lab 3

(Requires Add-On Workshop Pass)

This workshop will teach the creative process of crafting cinematic images from words in a script to on set. Demonstrations and discussions will cover:

• The steps in breaking down the script.

• How to choose what technology best supports the story and why.

• Relationships between the director, director of photography and crew in this process.

• A scene from a script will be presented with participants learning how the scene is blocked and shot. This workshop is designed for hands-on learning using cinematic tools.

Speakers: David Frederick, SOC, Camera Operato; Colin Frederick, Producer, Jenny McShane, Dolly Grip, Producer; Chris Thrasher, Dolly Grip; Bobby Woo, Dolly Grip; Eric (“EZ”)

Zucker, Dolly Grip

11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

CINECENTRAL CRAFT CLINIC:

PRESENTED BY TIFFEN

❱ N1149 CineCentral Theater

(Open to all badge holders)

Join Tiffen as it presents an educational and topical CineCentral Craft Clinic.

12:30-4:30 p.m.

THE SOCIETY OF CAMERA OPERATORS PRESENT: OPERATING HANDHELD — GEAR AND TECHNIQUE

❱ N1994 CineCentral Lab 1 (Requires Add-On Workshop Pass)

This course introduces handheld camera operating techniques in filmmaking with a focus on nonscripted and broadcast production. Workshop objectives include:

• Understand the basics of handheld camera operation and the history and importance of ergonomics

• Various handheld camera support systems and when to use them

• Breathing, posture and proper balance

• Essential skill of listening and left eye vision

• The fundamental to become a proficient Camera Operator and storyteller

• Understanding the principals of shooting multicam

• Communicating effectively with your shooting partners

Speaker: Shanele Alvarez, SOC, Camera Operator; Dawn Fleischman, SOC, Camera Operator

2-3:30 p.m

CINECENTRAL CRAFT CLINIC: PRESENTED BY ADORAMA

❱ N1449 CineCentral Theater (Open to all badge holders)

Join Adorama as it presents an educational and topical CineCentral Craft Clinic.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9

10 a.m.-1 p.m.

THE SOCIETY OF CAMERA OPERATORS PRESENTS: GETTING CINEMATIC LOOKS ON A TIGHT BUDGET

N1449 CineCentral Theater (Requires Add-On Workshop Pass)

So, you got a tight budget and a big vision?! This hands-on workshop will address the “hacks” of making your project look bigger and better on a shoestring budget.

Attendees will learn:

• How and when to use AI

• Cinematic lighting techniques

• Storytelling technology tips

• What you can and can’t do in post

• What inexpensive gear is available and how best to use it

Speaker: David Frederick, SOC, Camera Operator; Colin Frederick, Producer; Dustin Supencheck, Cinematographer

What’s Happening TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY in the CREATOR LAB THEATER

(Sessions listed are as of press time and subject to change. Open to all badge holders.)

TUESDAY, APRIL 8

10-10:45 a.m.

NAVIGATING THE CHALLENGES OF CLOUD WORKFLOWS

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater B

While most cloud-based tools promise seamless collaboration, they also come with major drawbacks. Expensive storage, bandwidth limits, per-user fees and create workflow bottlenecks. Internet dependency makes remote work vulnerable to slow connections while remote access put sensitive content at risk. Does a lack of true ownership mean creatives are locked into ecosystems they don’t control? For an industry built on flexibility and innovation, the cloud can feel more like a costly cage than a liberating tool. Despite these challenges, filmmakers need efficient, scalable solutions that don’t break the bank or compromise creative control. Our panel will explore alternatives

such as hybrid storage models, decentralized collaboration tools and smarter local workflows to help bridge the gap between accessibility and affordability. By rethinking how we store, share and edit content, the industry can move beyond cloud dependency and build a future that truly empowers creators.

Speakers: Clyde Bessey, Creative Director/Co-Founder, Origin Point; Mike Cavanagh, Founder/President, Key Code Media; David Hoffman, Business Development Manager, Blackmagic Design Moderator: Michael Cioni, Founder & CEO, Strada

11-11:30 a.m.

FINDING YOUR PERFECT TECHNOLOGY MATCH ON A TIGHTER BUDGET

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater B

The technology buying process is outdated and broken, but thankfully there is a solution to solve this — in the form of good people. In this fireside chat, two longtime partners (Hollywood’s leading data storage

and services platform provider, OpenDrives, along with trusted systems integration and reseller, Key Code Media) will share the story of how they came together to help solve the data storage and networking problems of one prestigious postproduction studio, Goldcrest Post.

Speakers: Michael Kammes, Senior Director, Innovation and Creator, Key Code Media; Sean Lee, CEO, OpenDrives; Steve Rapanaro, Senior Account Manager, Key Code Media; Domenic Rom, Managing Director, Goldcrest Post

11:30 a.m.-Noon THE POWER OF AUTHENTICITY

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater A Discover how authentic content from users and employees can build deeper connections and drive audience loyalty. Learn strategies to encourage genuine participation, amplify voices, and turn everyday creators into powerful advocates for your brand.

Speakers: Nicole Giusti , Director,

Marketing; ShopMy, Rene Ritchie , Creator Liaison, YouTube; Jerry Won , Founder & CEO, World Class Speakers

2-2:30 p.m.

TUPELO HONEY: THE JOURNEY TO THE CLOUD — ADVENTURES IN SCALABLE SPORTS STORYTELLING

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater B Success in sports is often achieved by great teamwork and a clear vision. The same is true in the fast-paced world of live production. Join experts from AWS, Vizrt and LiveU as they share the joint playbook that delivered the vision set out by John Servizzi, president of Tupelo Honey (a Gray Media company). Learn how the vendors’ live production solutions work perfectly together to increase efficiency, effectiveness and adaptability across Tupelo Honey’s REMI, hybrid and lightweight cloud live productions, and gain actionable insights to help you accelerate your own journey.

Speakers: Janel Moorefield, VP of Direct Sales, LiveU; Jon Raidel, Global Lead, Cloud Live Production, Vizrt; John Servizzi, President, Tupelo Honey; Matt Wildes, Senior Solutions Architect, AWS

2:20-2:40 p.m.

CREATOR PERSPECTIVE

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater A (Open to All Badge Holders) The creator economy continues to grow at an impressive rate, with projections indicating it will reach $528.39 billion by 2030. But like any maturing industry, there are obstacles. From on-the-job burnout to the uncertainty of the job market, from lack of traditional safety guards like medical insurance, to negotiating a fair contract, our panel of creators offer their insights on how to triumph.

What’s Happening TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY in the CREATOR LAB THEATER

2:50-3:20 p.m.

CREATORS AT ENTERPRISE SCALE

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater A

As social media audiences officially surpass TV by 2025 — a milestone dubbed the “Social Singularity” — brand marketers across sectors are forging innovative collaborations with creators and influencers. This session examines how to harness these partnerships, from tapping in-house creative talent to engaging established influencers, to thrive in a new era where social platforms dominate the attention economy.

Speakers: Saeyoung Cho , Senior Influencer Lead, Unilever; Alana Litavis , Senior Vice President of Marketing, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Moderator: Ryan Schram , Managing Partner, Particle Wave

3-4 p.m.

THE SOCIAL SHOPPING PLAYBOOK

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater A

From setup to strategy, this session breaks down everything you need to succeed in live stream shopping. Whether you’re a creator or a brand, you’ll learn how to connect with audiences, keep them watching, and drive real revenue with shoppertainment. We’ll cover the best platforms, tools, and techniques to keep audiences engaged and buying in real time.

Speakers: Cassandra Bankson, CEO, CBLLC; Yevgeniy Malyarchuk, Creators & Content, TikTok

Moderator: Catherine Halaby, Vice President, Creator Relations, Collective Voice

4-5 p.m.

ASK ME ANYTHING:

INTERNET’S BIGGEST SCRIPTED

CREATOR, DHAR MANN, & CEO SEAN ATKINS TAKE YOUR QUESTIONS

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater A

(Open to all badge holders)

You’ve seen the inspirational videos, you’ve heard the life-changing lessons, but now it’s time for the real talk. In this intimate AMA (Ask Me Anything) session, top digital scripted creator Dhar Mann and Dhar Mann Studios

CEO Sean Atkins (former president at MTV) are ready to answer your burning questions — whether it’s about building a media empire, handling internet fame, or how to make more money with your content. Now’s your chance to ask!

Speakers: Dhar Mann, Founder, Dhar Mann Studios; Sean Atkins, CEO, Dhar Mann Studios

Moderator: Jim Louderback, CEO and Editor, Inside the Creator Economy

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9

10-10:30 a.m.

GIVE IT YOUR BEST SHOT

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater A (Open to all badge holders)

Discover how creators produce exceptional content by mastering their setups, perfecting their shots, and leveraging cutting-edge tools. Gain insights into the techniques, equipment and workflows that elevate their work, and take away practical tips to refine your own content creation process.

Speakers: Rene Amador, Co-Founder & CEO, ARwall; Jenny Kim Calabrese, Content Creator, jennybdoll; Nick Mattingly, CEO, Switcher

Moderator: Travis W Keyes, Photographer/Filmmaker, Travis W Keyes Photography

10:45-11:15 a.m.

PODCASTS, MUSIC AND AURAL DELIGHTS: CREATORS SHAPING THE SOUNDSCAPE

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater A

Dive into the world of audio content

as creators explore the power of podcasts, music, and other sounddriven experiences. Discover how these platforms are reshaping the creator economy and offering new ways to connect with audiences.

Speakers: Rox Codes, Founder, Flightcast; Jonathan Faulkner, EVP of Digital, iHeartMedia; Oscar Höglund, Co-Founder & CEO, Epidemic Sound

11:30 a.m.-Noon THE FUTURE OF IMMERSIVE CREATORS

❱ SL9823 Creator Lab Theater A (Open to all badge holders)

Explore how creators are pioneering immersive environments, transforming the creator economy, influencing culture, and partnering with brands to connect with future generations.

Speakers: Kaycie Choe, Project Manager, Moonrock Agency; Charlene Nichols, Founder, The Omniverse City; Anne-Margot Rodde, Founder and CEO, Creators Corp.

Moderator: John Canning, Director Developer Relations, Creators AMD

What’s Happening TUESDAY

& WEDNESDAY on the Startup Stage at

(Sessions listed are as of press time and subject to change. Open to all badge holders.)

TUESDAY, APRIL 8

10-10:45 a.m.

EVOLVING CONSUMER EXPERIENCES TRACK — REVOLUTIONIZING CONTENT DELIVERY: STREAMING, DISTRIBUTION, AND AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT

❱ W4143 Startup Stage

Join a discussion on how AI is transforming content delivery and audience engagement. This panel focuses on new models for streaming and distribution, examining how technology is reshaping the way stories are delivered and consumed.

11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

HYBRID PRODUCTION WITH AI TRACK – AI-ENHANCED EDITING: TRANSFORMING POSTPRODUCTION EFFICIENCY AND CREATIVITY

❱ W4143 Startup Stage | NAB Show Programming

Discover how AI is revolutionizing the post-production process in this panel focused on video and audio editing. From browser-based platforms and cloud collaboration to automated metadata tools and AI-enabled categorization, hear from startups reshaping the editing experience and reinventing creative control.

3-5 p.m.

STARTUP SHOWCASE: MAPPING THE FUTURE OF CONTENT

CREATION—FROM PRODUCTION TO AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT

❱ W4143 Startup Stage

Discover the cutting-edge technologies shaping the next generation of

storytelling. This fast-paced session will guide attendees through emerging workflows in Hybrid Production with AI and Evolving Consumer Experiences, with startups delivering rapid-fire presentations on how their innovations fit into the broader content ecosystem. Gain a contextualized understanding of the PropelME show floor and explore how these emerging solutions can be leveraged to transform production, distribution and audience engagement.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9

10:30-11:15 a.m.

FIRESIDE CHAT: A DEEPER DIVE WITH STARTUP SHOWCASE FOUNDERS

❱ W4143 Startup Stage

Go beyond the pitch and hear the real stories behind the startups transforming the production pipeline. In this fireside chat, standout founders

from the PropelME Startup Showcase pull back the curtain on their journey — from the initial spark of an idea to the challenges of building and scaling

their innovations. Learn what inspired their breakthroughs, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and how they see the future of content creation evolving.

What’s Happening TUESDAY at NAB SHOW THEATER 1

(Schedule listings are as of press time and subject to change. Open to all badge holders.)

9-10 a.m.

FABRIC’S EXCLUSIVE BREAKFAST RECEPTION

❱ W1768 Theater 1

Meet Fabric for breakfast as the company walks you through its product strategy. Be the first to see the latest updates in its toolsets as it builds the industry’s first Data-Driven Supply Chain. Learn how Fabric is integrating Studio+, Xytech and BB Media to drive greater efficiency and intelligence for customers.

Speakers: Kira Baca, Chief Revenue Officer, Fabric; Rob Delf, CEO, Fabric; Tom Gennari, Chief Data Officer, Fabric; Ryan McKeague, Chief Technology Officer, Fabric

10-10:45 a.m.

THE PATHS TO DISTRIBUTION FOR FAITH-BASED CONTENT

❱ W1768 Theater 1

The consumer appetite for faith- and inspirational-based content is on the rise, and the ministries and producers of this content are leveraging all forms of distribution to reach new audiences and grow their following. Panelists

from Fathom Entertainment, Sight & Sound, and other faith-based creators will discuss their approach to content distribution across theatrical, television, OTT and streaming platforms, plus share their insights for those ministries venturing into wide market distribution for the first time.

Speakers: Sean Loche, Creative Director; K-Love & Air1 Media Networks; Ryan Miller, Creative Producer, Sight & Sound

Moderator: Jeff Lee, Director of Education & Product Specialization, AbelCine

11-11:30 a.m.

THE RECIPE FOR BROADCASTERS TO UNLEASH THE POWER OF 5G STANDALONE (SA)

❱ W1768 Theater 1

In this session, T-Mobile for Business will delve into the revolutionary potential of 5G SA and explore how T-Mobile is spearheading this transformative journey for businesses. Through real-world media case studies, attendees will gain insights into how T-Mobile’s 5G SA solutions are empowering businesses to unlock new opportunities, streamline operations and deliver immersive experiences to their audiences. From enabling seamless remote production

workflows to supporting high-quality live streaming, discover how 5G SA is reshaping the future of broadcasting with its promise of: ultra-low latency, enhanced reliability, lower costs, less complexity and the flexibility to broadcast from almost anywhere. Moreover, this session will highlight the unique advantages of T-Mobile’s approach to 5G SA, including expansive nationwide coverage, robust infrastructure and commitment to innovation. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and revolutionize your business with T-Mobile’s 5G solutions.

Speakers: George Schnellbacher, MTS, Technology Development Strategy, T-Mobile for Business

11:45-12:30 p.m.

CINEMATIC INNOVATIONS IN LIVE CHURCH PRODUCTION

❱ W1768 Theater 1

AbelCine specialists, Diversified’s VP of Faith & Performance Tim Corder and creative directors from Gateway Church and Transformation Church will discuss the elements that go into establishing a high-grade, cinematic visual language. The discussion will cover camera and lens choice, lighting and camera movement, as well as the process for creating and maintaining a consistent color pipeline across all in-venue and distributed deliverables.

Speakers: Isabelle King , Gateway Church, Jeff Lee, Director of Education & Product Specialization, AbelCine; Geoff Smith, Technology Specialist, AbelCine; Tyler Tritten, Transformation Church, Austen Varian, Production Creative Director, Transformation Chrch; Chad Vegas, Broadcast Video Director, Transformation Church Moderator: Tim Corder, VP, Faith & Performance, Diversified

2:45-3:30 p.m.

FROM GENERATIVE AI TO MUSIC LICENSING: THE IMPACT OF COPYRIGHT LAW AND POLICY ON BROADCASTING IN 2025

❱ W1768 Theater 1

How are policymakers in Washington shaping the AI and music licensing landscape? And what do these changes mean for broadcasting? Hear about the latest updates in copyright law and policy from our panel of D.C. experts working to shape these policies from inside and outside of the government.

Speakers: Anna Chauvet, Partner, Finnegan, Jason Sloan, Assistant General Counsel, U.S. Copyright Office

Moderator: Kirsten Donaldson, Vice President, Public Policy, NAB

3:45-4:15 p.m.

POWERING THE LIVE STREAMING SPIKE: HOW PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION AND LTN DELIVER THE LEAGUE’S RECORD-BREAKING PRODUCTION AND MULTIPLATFORM DISTRIBUTION PLAY

❱ W1768 Theater 1

Pro Volleyball Federation is turbopowering the growth of professional women’s volleyball, expanding its broadcast coverage by 350% this season with a stellar lineup of 45 linear broadcast matches and 70 live digital events across broadcast partners CBS, Fox Sports and streaming services Roku and YouTube. Learn how the fast-growing league harnesses a suite of LTN’s intelligent IP ecosystem technologies to deliver immersive fan experiences on diverse platforms with unprecedented scale and customization, including across new global frontiers.

Speakers: Rob Carolla, VP, Public & Media Relations, Pro Volleyball Federation, Colin Moran, VP of Production Products, LTN

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What’s Happening TUESDAY at NAB SHOW THEATER 2

(Schedule listings are as as of press time and subject to change.)

11-11:30 a.m.

AI POWERED AD TECH: MAXIMIZING REVENUE AND BALANCE IN A DYNAMIC ADVERTISING LANDSCAPE

❱ W2361 Theater 2

In this fireside chat, Jesse Redniss, CEO of Precise.ai, and Michael Hagler, President of Lumenalta, will explore

how AI and publisher-controlled ad management technology can work together to boost revenue and create better advertiser balance for local sports and niche media. By leveraging advanced audience segmentation and ad-serving platforms, this innovative approach empowers publishers to optimize CPMs and ad inventory while offering more tailored ad experiences. Discover how this powerful combination is driving growth for

underserved markets in the everevolving ad tech space.

Speaker: Michael Hagler, President, Lumenalta, Jesse Redniss, CEO, Precise.ai

11:45-12:30 p.m.

OVERCOMING HURDLES TO FULL ATSC 3.0 DEPLOYMENT

❱ W2361 Theater 2

Next Gen TV (ATSC 3.0) is transforming the broadcast landscape, offering unprecedented capabilities for both broadcasters and viewers. With stations in markets covering over 75% of the country already on board, the finish line is in sight—but technical, logistical, and regulatory roadblocks still stand in the way. What policies and industry strategies are needed to complete the transition and unlock ATSC 3.0’s full potential? In this panel, industry leaders and engineers will tackle the biggest challenges, share insights from the front lines, and explore innovative solutions to accelerate adoption while navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.

Speaker: Robert Folliard, Senior Vice President, Government Relations and Distribution, Gray Media, Franz Joachim, General Manager, NMPBS, Dennis Klas, President, Heartland Video Systems

Moderator: Emily Gomes, Associate General Counsel, National Association of Broadcasters

2-2:30 p.m.

THE SHOW MUST GO ON: CRISIS-PROOFING LIVE SPORTS BROADCASTS

❱ W2361 Theater 2

Live sports broadcasting is highstakes, and failure is not an option. Join Duane Yoslov of Diversified and Kevin Callahan of Fox Sports as they reveal the meticulous planning and contingency strategies that ensure seamless operations for some of the biggest sporting events in the world. From cybersecurity to physical security, network segmentation to game restart protocols, this session will dive into the behind-the-scenes efforts that protect billions in broadcast revenue. Drawing from real-world experiences — like the World Cup, Super Bowl and other major-league events — Duane and Kevin will share how Fox Sports prepares for every possible scenario, including cyber threats, power failures and unexpected disruptions. Learn how risk management, redundancy planning and crisis-response strategies are shaping the future of live sports production. Whether you’re leading a broadcast operation or managing IT infrastructure, this session will provide valuable insights into mitigating risk and ensuring uninterrupted, highquality coverage.

Speaker: Kevin Callahan, VP, Field Operations and Engineering, Fox Sports, Duane Yoslov, Senior Vice President, Diversified

What’s Happening

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

at NAB SHOW THEATER 3

(Schedule is as of press time and subject to change.)

TUESDAY, APRIL 8

10:30-10:50 a.m.

LEADERS FROM CBS AND NBC ON HOW CLOUD-BASED TECHNOLOGIES CONTINUE TO EXPAND NEWSGATHERING AND CONTENT DISTRIBUTION TO STATIONS AND AFFILIATES

❱ W2831 Theater 3

What technologies do CBS and NBC use to acquire and distribute news assets to their network news shows, local stations and affiliates? How do they navigate dozens of live feeds happening simultaneously and constant deadlines to get edited packaged reports on the big national stories to their stations?

Thought leaders dive into how cloudbased products allow them to serve local newsrooms with efficiency and success — and what the future will be.

Speakers: Joel Goldberg, Senior Vice President and General Manager, CBS News & Stations, CBS Newspath & CBS Radio; Colin Grimes, President, VideoShip; Jamie Simmons, VP Product and Media Workflow, NBCUniversal Media

Moderator: Sherry Swensk, Morning & Weather Anchor, KLAS-TV, Las Vegas

12:30-12:50 p.m.

THE HOW AND WHY OF FABRIC’S MIGRATION OF XYTECH TO AWS

❱ W2931 Theater 3

Fabric’s cloud migration was a pivotal move toward scalability, efficiency and innovation. Join Rob Delf, CEO of Fabric, and Naima Elmasri, AWS

Account Manager – Startups, for an exclusive fireside chat at NAB Show, where they’ll break down the journey of migrating from their existing cloud provider to AWS.

2:30-2:50 p.m.

CASE STUDY: REMOTE PRODUCTION OF CHRISTMAS AMERICAN FOOTBALL

❱ W2931 Theater 3

This case study unpacks some of the live media production technology underpinning a couple of significant sports events that took place at Christmas 2024. It will describe the topology and the details of how the event was connected and brought to viewers.

Speaker: Andy Rayner, CTO, Appear

3-3:20 p.m.

ENHANCING FACILITY SECURITY WITH SMPTE RP 2129: ADDRESSING REAL-WORLD CHALLENGES IN IP-FOCUSED STANDARDS

❱ W2831 Theater 3

This session delves into the critical role of IP-focused standards, with a particular emphasis on SMPTE RP 2129, in addressing significant real-world challenges such as security across Wide Area Networks in use cases such as remote production and facility

interconnect. As media production and distribution increasingly rely on IP-based networks, ensuring robust security measures becomes paramount. SMPTE RP 2129 introduces the concept of Trust Boundaries, which function as mediaspecific firewalls designed to secure IP-based network interconnections.

Speaker: Paul Evans, Solution Area Expert, Net Insight

3:30-3:50 p.m.

TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR SECURITY

❱ W2831 Theater 3

With video content distribution over the internet now the norm, security has become a vital consideration: no broadcaster wants to risk unauthorized content insertions and no producer can risk valuable intellectual property being intercepted. Yet despite this, security standards are not uniformly high — some popular encoders on the market store passwords in the clear! — and while video streams are becoming secured, the communications and control around them are still too

often neglected. In this session, Sergio Ammirata, founder and chief scientist of SipRadius, will look at real-world best security practices bringing communications and content into a common, hardened encryption model. Further, he will discuss the concept of selfhosting video distribution services, using open standards, using proven solutions from SipRadius and others alongside the availability of bandwidth capacity and stability, as the route to maximum security.

Speaker: Sergio Ammirata Ph.D., Founder & Chief Scientist, SipRadius

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9

10-10:20 a.m.

THE CBC/RADIO-CANADA TORONTO PROJECT, A FORAY INTO DYNAMIC MEDIA FACILITY INFRASTRUCTURE W2831 Theater 3

The CBC/Radio-Canada Toronto HQ rebuild aims for future-proof production facilities amid media changes. This presentation outlines the vision and initial findings for adapting to the evolving landscape.

ON THE MAIN STAGE

Dhar Mann Brings His Positive Message to NAB Show

Dhar Mann, recognized by Forbes as a Top Creator in 2024, will take to NAB Show’s Main Stage this afternoon from 3 to 3:30 p.m. to present “The Power of Positivity: Building the World’s Largest Digital Scripted Studio – Dhar Mann Studios.”

Mann, who founded Dhar Mann Studios (DMS), has attracted over 124 million followers with his storytelling. He’ll be joined onstage by DMS CEO Sean Atkins to reveal how the production company became a multimillion-dollar enterprise producing inspirational content annually viewed by billions. The duo will be interviewed by technology journalist and content creator Taylor Lorenz.

Then at 4:30 p.m. Mann and Atkins will head over to Creator Lab Theater A to take your questions as part of an “Ask Me Anything” session.

Mann caught up with the NAB Show Daily to talk about his process, how he connects with viewers and his biggest challenges.

NAB Show Daily: What inspires your storytelling process, and how do you ensure your content resonates with such a broad audience?

Dhar Mann: What really inspires me is the idea that everyone has a story, and those stories have the power to change lives. I always focus on universal themes like kindness, respect, and the impact of our choices. I want to make sure the stories we share are relatable and impactful,

so no matter where you’re from, you can connect. I think it’s important to show that we’re all more alike than we are different. By keeping the messages simple but impactful, and ensuring they’re grounded in real human emotions, I try to speak to people at the heart level.

NAB Show Daily: With millions of followers, how do you maintain a personal connection with viewers?

DM: It’s all about authenticity. It’s so important to me to make sure I’m engaging with my audience, whether it’s through responding to comments, sharing personal stories, or addressing them directly in my videos. People respond to honesty and vulnerability, so I try to keep that at the forefront of everything I do. At the end of the day, we’re all human, and I want people to know that they’re not alone, no matter what they’re going through. It’s about creating a community where people feel heard and supported.

NAB Show Daily: What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a creator, and how have you overcome them?

DM: As a creator, one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is staying authentic in an industry that’s constantly changing. The pressure to chase trends or mimic what’s popular can be overwhelming, but I’ve always stayed focused on my purpose — creating content that makes a difference in people’s

lives. I’ve learned that staying true to my values is what sets me apart, even if it means going against the grain at times.

NAB Show Daily: What’s the most memorable feedback you’ve received from a fan or viewer about how your videos have impacted their life?

DM: One of my very first viral videos on Facebook focused on an often overlooked group—stayat-home moms. It highlighted the countless, tireless hours they spend behind the scenes, from cooking and cleaning to managing the entire household, all while rarely receiving the recognition or appreciation they truly deserve. I was deeply moved to see how many moms connected with this message, but what truly surprised me was how many husbands it touched. So many men reached out to say that the video made them realize just how much their wives do every single day, and they promised to make a change

— whether it was bringing flowers, planning a special dinner, or simply saying “thank you.” It was in that moment that I truly understood the power of storytelling — the way it can spark real change and create a ripple effect that transforms lives.

NAB Show Daily: What advice would you give to aspiring creators who want to build a sustainable career in digital content?

DM: My best advice is to stay true to your values and your vision. There’s a lot of noise out there, and it’s tempting to chase after what’s popular. But long-term success comes from being consistent, authentic, and offering something that adds value to people’s lives. Build a relationship with your audience by being relatable, and focus on creating quality content that you’re proud of. And don’t forget — it’s okay to fail and learn along the way. The most important thing is to keep going and never give up on your purpose. l

CREATOR STRATEGIES

Podcasters Look for Growth Opportunities

As the medium’s popularity keeps rising, creators are finding new ways to grow, retain and monetize audiences

By Jim Beaugez NAB SHOW DAILY

Podcast listenership continues to soar, growing by nearly 10% from 2023 to 2024, according to Triton’s U.S. Podcast Report, released in January. More than 100 million listeners tune into their favorite news, entertainment and other podcasts every week.

When factoring in growth since 2021, that listenership figure rises to 23%, which was on top of record gains made during the COVID era, and — you get the picture. But with the industry on a roll and so many new practitioners joining the ranks every year, podcasters are looking for ways to inch ahead of the competition.

“Podcasters have to figure out

what they can do to not only get the first listen, but the second listen, the third listen, the fourth listen and the fifth listen,” says John Wordock, an industry veteran who has held leadership roles at Cumulus Podcast Network and The Wall Street Journal.

“At the end of the day, it’s about

recruiting and then retaining listeners, and then finding new ones.”

Exactly how to go about implementing that goal, with the objective of generating more revenue, can play out in many different strategies. One of the most popular right now is pivoting from being merely a podcaster behind a

microphone to a platform-crossing content creator.

“It is quite clear that there are more avenues to create revenue than there are in New York City,” Wordock said. He cited tactics like show sponsorships, dynamically inserted ads, merchandise, subscription levels with paid bonus content and video. The list expands in myriad directions from there.

OPTIMIZING FOR VOICE SEARCH

On top of those growth tools, Rhea Allen, president and CEO of marketing agency Peppershock Media, suggested optimizing for how consumers are searching for and finding podcasts. And with many of those listeners using voice search in their cars, with smartphones or IoT devices at home, she recommends tailoring how podcasters list and describe their episodes for that use case.

“A lot of times people will pose questions when they’re asking their devices to do something, using the AI voice tools,” she said. “Think about how you construct your show notes and optimize for not just regular search engine optimization, but voice search optimization as well.”

As podcast creators continue to expand their audiences and revenue, new tools — or challenges, depending on your perspective — such as artificial intelligence are disrupting workflows across the industry. But Google’s NotebookLM and

John Wordock

Gary Levitt

Rhea Allen

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PRODUCTS & SERVICES SHOWCASE

New innovations from exhibitors on the show floor

Planar Luminate Ultra W Series Sets a New Standard for Close-Up Outdoor Viewing

Featuring a 16:9 wide aspect ratio, up to 3,000nit brightness, 1.3, 1.6 and 2.0 millimeter pixel pitches, the Planar® Luminate™ Ultra W Series fine pixel pitch LED video wall display allows users to create standard resolution in fine pitch outdoor LED and redefine close-up outdoor viewing of media-rich content.

www.planar.com/LuminateUltra-W

CANON UHD-DIGISUPER OPTICAL UNIT

Canon unveiled a new optical unit at NAB 2025, enhancing UHD-DIGISUPER 122 field box lens. It enables a shallow depth of field with easier focusing, ideal for fast-paced broadcasts. Also available for UHD DIGISUPER

111, users can seamlessly switch between standard broadcast and enhanced, shallow depth of field image styles, all while maintaining color consistency. Frequently demonstrated at major sporting events and concerts, the optical unit has helped capture unforgettable moments.

www.usa.canon.com

ShowSeeker is exhibiting Pilot, an all-in-one campaign and order management

works toward a more unified, audience-based approach to selling advertising,” CEO Ed Hardy said.

“We expect this trend of audience-based selling to be a major discussion point, especially as industry leaders look to modernize their tech stack, reduce costs and improve operational efficiencies.”

ShowSeeker is displaying its all-in-one Pilot campaign and order management platform.

making that happen, replacing human-to-human communications with machine-to-machine interactions, Wall said.

That’s particularly true when televising sports. Automation and artificial intelligence will be able to determine quickly what ads should run when there’s an injury timeout or some other stoppage. “They happen when

they happen,” Khan said. “You can’t schedule them.”

ALL ABOUT AUDIENCE

Ad-tech company Showseeker also sees the traditional and digital TV worlds converging.

“While viewership is increasingly fragmented, both broadcast and MVPDs are on a path to convergence as the entire industry

“The entire television industry needs improved, faster and more automated technology that can support this new era of buying and selling advertising,” Hardy said.

Measurement company Comscore is an NAB Show exhibitor. Frank Friedman, chief data and analytics officer and head of cross-plartform measurement, expects discussions about the new multicurrency ecosystem beyond just the Nielsen ratings and what that means for the future of television, streaming included.

Comscore is hosting a panel and cocktail reception. It has invited industry leaders and change-makers to unpack the benefits and collateral damage of the local media revolution and to pave the way for next-gen audience measurement.

“With perspectives from both sides of the fence, the discussion will focus on redefining our industry glossary around currency vs. currency accreditation, linear channels vs. programmatic pipes, and the noise in Big Data vs. the role of digital tech in revitalizing the local ecosystem,” Friedman said. ●

SPOTLIGHT

Creativity is not a simple linear process. By focusing on the ‘third state’ of Action, ‘�ow,’ to drive creators towards genuinely novel work, we can establish a positive symbiotic relationship for AI (synthetic) and human (organic) minds.”

MAXIM JAGO | FUTURIST/FILMAKER/AUTHOR/SPEAKER AT THE CREATIVITY CONFERENCE | THE CREATIVITY COMMUNITY

AI Makes Advertising Inroads

Artificial intelligence, which is being incorporated into many media products, is a big topic of conversation at NAB Show.

“There’s a lot of hype around AI and reality is going to catch up to the hype, because the promise is real,” said Malik Khan of LTN.

“Everyone’s talking about AI when it comes to advertising,” said Emily Boucher of Brightcove. “Specifically, I think AI will help drive innovation and workflow management and optimization,” she said, adding that it will be used to customize the television experience down to the individual user.

“The promise of AI can be extremely powerful,” said Brad Wall of LTN. AI can drive automation and create more machine-to-machine communications, which could speed up the evolution of what are now outdated business rules.

“Business policies can be automated and consumer preferences can be automated” using AI, Khan said. “If we can bring those two together in very smart AI models that are algorithmically linking those two, that to me would be a very productive use of AI.”

Malik Khan

Brightcove Ad Insight’s product collects metrics on viewer engagement and ad tolerance, which can be used to adjust the length and frequency of commercial breaks.

platform.

New York City is the media, advertising, fashion and financial capital of the world. NAB Show New York is the only east coast event where brands, broadcasters, sports teams and financial giants connect to master the tools, trends and strategies shaping the industry.

adoption of networking, any organization undertaking a new build or an upgrade these days typically bases it on an AoIP infrastructure.

“Even if a station isn’t implementing a full SMPTE ST 2110 system with redundant networking, they want to be sure that gear purchased today will fit into that architecture tomorrow,” said Phil Owens, senior sales engineer at Wheatstone.

“To that end, Wheatstone is making sure that our endpoints will support the redundant ports and protocols required for 2110 and associated specs like 2022-7 hitless switching.”

Audio board sizes are shrinking, Owens noted, as AoIP’s switching and routing capabilities mean users need fewer physical faders. “Only the largest network facilities require more than a

32-fader board,” he said. “It seems like the days of ‘big iron’ are drawing to a close.”

That said, broadcasters still need large input counts. “Typical newsroom automation systems don’t support changing sources on input channels, so more input channels are required to provide control over all the sources needed for a newscast,” Owens said.

“Oftentimes, there is no board op required, so layered channels on a touchscreen-based software mixer are quite acceptable. Our Virtual Strata system provides 64 input channels with all the processing and bussing that its physical counterpart has.”

REMOTE WORKFLOWS ON THE RISE

The COVID-19 pandemic hastened wider adoption of remote

workflows in broadcast, a boon for Calrec, which had already introduced its RP1 remote production processing engine. While the RP1 supported remote control of basic functions like faders and auxes, its new True Connect 2.0 enables remote operation across the board.

“We’ve put that control mechanism into our Argo S, Argo Q and new Argo M console,” Henry Goodman, director of product management, said. “It’s also in Type R and in our Cloud Processing engine.”

The DSP cores of any of those products (and soon,

Apollo+ and Artemis+ consoles) at the event site may be mapped onto another of the desks back at the broadcast facility.

“True Control allows you to maximize your utilization,” he said. For instance, an operator at the studio could mix multiple remote events in a single day, significantly reducing travel and associated costs.

Now add the cloud piece. “A cloud instance could be controlled directly from an Argo surface in the same way,” Goodman said. “You’re using processing that is in a different location, whether in the cloud or in another DSP core somewhere else. From an operator’s point of view, it’s pretty much transparent.” ●

SPOTLIGHT

We have reached ‘Social Singularity:’ According to eMarketer, 2025 is the year that social media audiences will o�cially surpass TV audiences, signaling a historic shift in how people consume media and how brands connect with consumers.At the same time, ‘broadcasting’ isn’t a dirty word; today, it’s ‘broader-casting.’ Expanding the narrative of the NAB Show with initiatives like Creator Lab could not be more important as ‘audio everywhere’ and ‘video everywhere’ (e.g. platform and transmission-agostic) is top of mind for content creators, media companies, and platforms alike.”

RYAN SCHRAM | MANAGING PARTNER,

PARTICLE WAVE

Wheatstone’s Virtual Strata system provides 64 input channels, the same as its physical counterparts.

Calrec’s new True Connect 2.0 enables across-the-board remote operation of its Argo M audio console.

ATSC 3.0 UPDATE

The latest developments in NextGen TV were highlighted at last year’s NAB Show �loor booth. More advances are on tap for this year.

What’s Next for NextGen TV in 2025

NAB Show will see a host of presentations and demos of new technologies for the transition to a new broadcast standard

By George Winslow TV TECH

This year’s NAB Show and the rest of 2025 promise to be pivotal in the development of NextGen TV, also known as ATSC 3.0. Broadcasters hope the innovative standard will help them radically transform their businesses and better compete with Big Tech.

NextGen TV broadcasts have been launched in areas that cover around 76% of all U.S. homes, and broadcasters in many of those markets are offering greatly improved high dynamic range video, Dolby Atmos surround sound, interactive services and advanced advertising capabilities.

But much work remains to be done. Pearl TV, a consortium of broadcasters working toward

the rollout of the new ATSC 3.0 broadcast standard, reported there were only about 14 million 3.0-capable devices in U.S. homes at the end of last year.

To boost interest in the vast majority of TV homes without 3.0-capable devices, broadcasters are embarking on an aggressive industry-wide effort to launch more 3.0 services, ramp up their marketing efforts and get regulatory relief to speed the transition, according to Anne Schelle, managing director of Pearl TV.

“I think that the general theme of NAB Show is going to be that finally, we have an industry that has fully embraced 3.0,” said Mark Aitken, president of ONE Media Technologies.

“There is a near-ubiquitous agreement that an early sunset of

ATSC 1.0 is required” to free up the spectrum needed to offer a full range of 3.0 services.

SEEKING A CUTOFF

To that end, the National Association of Broadcasters petitioned the Federal Communications Commission in February to adopt cutoff dates for the end of ATSC 1.0

broadcast by February 2028 for the top U.S. 55 markets and February 2030 for the rest of the country.

“The faster we can get to a transition that will allow us to focus on all the new businesses [enabled by NextGen TV standard], the faster all sorts of opportunities open up,” said Schelle. She stressed that the ability to offer more services will boost consumer interest and incentivize manufacturers to provide more 3.0-capable devices.

In the run-up to the full transition, broadcasters are also aggressively working to launch more ATSC 3.0 features and services to show consumers the advantages of 3.0 broadcasts. To appeal to sports fans, for example, station groups like Sinclair and Gray Media made

Gray Media stations are making

SPOTLIGHT ON: Korea Pavilion

perfection and transformative innovation in every project.

DIGITAL FORECAST N1628

BLUEDOT W2157

With our own video-specific AI, BLUEDOT focuses on enhancing video quality and reducing file size without sacrificing the original quality. Bechtle-VSR enables real-time super-resolution, making it applicable for live streaming. PQO ensures a reduction of more than 30% in file size, saving both bandwidth and associated costs.

CRENOVA SYSTEMS CO. LTD.

W2614

CreNova Systems develops compact, high-performance devices that integrate RF tuners, IPTV and CAS protection for seamless pay TV and hybrid streaming. Our modular solutions, including the NexGen Pay TV Dongle and

broadcasting, sports, education, and retail markets. Witness the future of immersive streaming technology today.

NexGen Bridge, help broadcasters and operators worldwide deliver secure, scalable, and revenue-generating entertainment.

CRYSTAL PROMPTER W1525

Crystal Prompter is a premier manufacturer of innovative teleprompter systems built for modern broadcasting needs. With cutting-edge crystal-clear display technology and robust design, our teleprompters deliver unparalleled clarity and reliability for studio, outdoor, and live events. Our team of experts is dedicated to continuous research and development, ensuring our products set new standards in quality and performance. Committed to customer satisfaction, we offer tailored solutions that empower broadcasters, presenters, and digital storytellers to deliver flawless messages every time. Experience our passion for

Digital Forecast Co. Ltd. was founded in August 2005 as a global solution provider for digital video and audio signal processing connectivity.

Digital Forecast has been developing and producing a variety of 12G, 3G, and fiber optic high-quality digital video and audio products for the past 20 years.

Our company specializes in supplying a variety of broadcasting products.

We will continue to expand our market share in the global market based on our flagship Bridge and Bridge UHD products.

DYNAMIC MEDIA N1624

GEMISO W2616

Inshorts is a startup revolutionizing the video content industry through AI technology. Our “AI Super Scaler” upscales SD content to 4K resolution, enabling global commercial redistribution of revitalized legacy content. We provide new revenue streams for the global entertainment companies.

HD&P N1632

We proudly unveil xShow—a revolutionary platform delivering ultra-low latency, high-definition multi-angle live streaming through WebRTC technology. Experience this breakthrough innovation at our exhibition booth, where we demonstrate its versatile applications across

HD&P transforms broadcast camera capabilities through innovative fiber optic technology, extending signal range and functionality. Our hybrid cable solutions transmit video, control signals, and power over long distances, enhancing production quality for studios and live events worldwide.

Exhibitors in the Korea Pavilion share what they want attendees to know about them before visiting the pavilion.

INSHORTS

W2612

Inshorts is a startup revolutionizing the video content industry through AI technology. Our “AI Super Scaler” upscales SD content to 4K resolution, enabling global commercial redistribution of revitalized legacy content. We provide new revenue streams for the global entertainment companies.

KOREA ICT ASSOCIATION (KICTA)

W2515

Korea ICT Association (KICTA) is a nonprofit organization established to promote the growth and development of the ICT industry. Its primary mission is to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the ICT sector by providing assistance for marketing

and international expansion. At NAB 2025, companies in the Korea Pavilion will showcase innovative new technologies, presenting cutting-edge solutions and advancements across areas such as broadcasting equipment and the ICT industry. The showcased products will include optical converters, measuring instruments, monitors, intercom systems, AIbased upscaling solutions, and encoders.

KOTRA N1626

KOTRA is a nonprofit governmental agency under the South Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy that facilitates international business between Korean and global companies. KOTRA organizes the Korea Pavilion at NAB Show to help international businesses discover and connect with leading Korean

partners in broadcasting equipment and technology.

LAON TECHNOLOGY N1531

LaON is an exceptional technology based digital IP intercom manufacturer. The flagship hybrid intercom, Genie, is a decentralized, cost-effective PoE scalable solution facilitating connections across an entire studio and theater with 67 antennas with 128 wireless belt packs and 128 key panels per system. It supports Dante/AES67 and multiple sites remote connections.

PIXTREE INC. W2513

PIXTREE is an AI multimedia solution and broadcasting headend system provider found in 2002.

Panasonic Looks for ‘Synergy’ Across Market Segments

Under the banner “Amplifying Innovation and Maximizing Our Impact,” Panasonic launched several new or updated products and reaffirmed its commitment to the evolving worlds that demand quality audio and video content.

“The B2B and B2C markets are growing due to demand for quality content, and in pro video production and live streaming demand is also rising,” said Toshiyuki Tsumura, executive vice president of Panasonic Entertainment & Communication Co., and director of its Imaging Solution Business Division. He announced a 20% increase by 2027 in “synergy,” products that can be used across market segments.

Chris Merrill, director, product management at Panasonic Connect, spoke next and focused on the numbers 3.0, 2.6 and 16.6 — 3% being the recent increase in the number of camera operators; 2.6% the increase in the size of the broadcast market; 16.6% as the rate of streaming’s growth.

“What we’re hearing is that there are not enough qualified people to create the shows we need,” Merrill said. Panasonic’s response to this challenge is its continued focus on integrated ecosystems, automation and AI assistance where it can help, and simplified connectivity, he added.

Since 2017, it has introduced AI-based media technology to broadcasting/media solutions, built a world-class AI-based media service platform(PrestoWorks. ai), and formed a product line of AI-based media equipment(PixLIVE-E2500) combined with traditional media encoding/ transcoding technologies.

POSTIUM KOREA CO. LTD.

Postium Korea has been a trusted supplier of professional broadcast, movie and studio equipment to many companies around the globe.

We develop and produce monitors with various sizes from 7 inches to 55 inches and a wide range of functions such as IP, 8K, 4K, Rack and Quad. This exhibit will feature 18.5-inch first-class monitors, IP monitors, 8K/4K monitors and rack monitors.

Product launches included the AG-CX370 handheld camcorder, which builds on the established AG-CX350 to offer a compact, lightweight design and energy-efficient operation for production, broadcasting and streaming applications. Upgrades include 12G-SDI output for high-quality streaming, GENLOCK input for broadcast-quality synchronization in multicamera systems, and a four-channel audio input to support up to four external microphones.

Panasonic has also updated its KAIROS live production platform version 1.8, which offers multi-unit control for KAIROS Core, integration with graphics platforms such as Singular.live and Viz Flowics, and expanded support for various resolutions, including 16:10 and 5:4.

Also new are several plug-ins to support Media Production Suite and the WX-AM800 Beamform Ceiling Array Microphone, which detects and captures speakers’ voices from above for clear, natural communications in corporate and higher education applications. ● — Mark Hallinger, NAB Show Daily

Director, Product Management

Chris Merrill at Panasonic’s NAB Show press event.

HIGH-TECH RESTORATION

Using 8K Scanning to Make an Old Film Look New

Advanced technology is breaking ground in film remastering

By Janet Connor Kahler SMARTBRIEF

The use of 8K scanning is taking off in new films as well as in the restoration and remastering of old films. The technology, which scans each negative of a film one at a time, can greatly improve the quality of the image while reducing noise.

At the “8K Technology and Its Emerging Role in the Creative Process” panel on Monday, Mike Smith of Wavelet Consulting said Warner Bros. Discovery has 8,000 films in its archives and 500 have been scanned in 4K or 8K. In the past three years, they have added 20 films scanned in 8K. “We treat it like it is the last time you will be able to touch the negative” when scanning because negatives can

deteriorate or be lost.

When determining if a film should be scanned for 8K, a blind scan test is done in both 4K and 8K and then the samples are shown to industry groups to determine if the difference justifies the cost and file sizes required for 8K work.

The actual scanning process takes a picture of each negative, but sometimes multiple exposures are taken as a way to filter out film grain and scanner noise. The results are then averaged to reduce the scanner noise.

Recent theater releases using 8K include “Purple Rain” and “Oppenheimer” and the technology was also used on the recently released Talking Heads, Led Zeppelin and Queen films. Next up are the “Dirty Harry” titles.

But 8K isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to restoration. Filmmakers have found that often you get a better 4K master even if you scan it at 8K. And even though there are still limited ways to show films in 8K, the industry wants to be future-ready for when 8K technology comes to more theaters and in-home televisions.

“Not all titles have that detail — maybe it’s the lens they used or film stock,” said Greg Ciaccio, vice president of original content, Post & Image Capture, at IMAX. And showing a film at a higher resolution isn’t just about more pixels and resolution — but better pixels, he said.

A recent re-release of “2001: A Space Odyssey” is the first time an 8K film has gone not to theaters but over the air and into homes. But the home experience won’t pick up until

more televisions can handle the technology and bandwidth, Ciaccio said. As for the future of 8K, the numbers just keep getting higher. Smith at Wavelet said they have a scanner capable of 13.5K, and Ciaccio said IMAX has a scanner capable of 16K. But there is a working group that hopes to have industry standards in place this year concerning the technology, and more 8K-compatible camera lenses are being made.

Using a poor lens on a high-resolution camera doesn’t make a great film.”

MIKE SMITH, WAVELET COMMUNICATIONS

“Using a poor lens on a high-resolution camera doesn’t make a great film,” said Smith. Ciaccio says that right now they want to make sure the system is future-ready so they are scanning in 8K release even though the 4K version might be used. “When users are ready for 8K, the scans have already been done and cleanup costs already covered,” he said. l

Juan Reyes, left, of the 8K Association speaks with Greg Ciaccio of IMAX and Mike Smith of Wavelet Consulting.

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REIMAGINING LOCAL NEWS

How Newsrooms Are Reinventing the Use of AI

Integrating the tech should lead to a rethink of newsgathering, panelists say

By Janet Connor Kahler SMARTBRIEF

Traditional media companies are seeing the benefits of using artificial intelligence in their newsrooms, but the use of AI needs to be more than just adding technology. Integrating AI needs to come from a whole reimaging of newsgathering.

At the “Broadcasters Survival (or Reinvention) Plan: Local Content, Smart Tech & Bold Innovation” panel, Joe Croney of The Washington Post’s Arc XP spoke with Stephanie Slagle, vice president and chief information officer at Graham Media Group, and Michael Newman, Graham’s director of transformation, about how Graham Media integrated Arc XP’s content management system in its television stations to help move from a platform-first approach to newsgathering to a story-first approach.

Over the past decade, television stations have needed three

different newsrooms: one for broadcast, one for digital and one for streaming, which required a big staff as well as expertise on specific platforms. That’s just not sustainable in the current economic climate, Slagle said at the Sunday afternoon session, so Graham Media leaders went out in the field with their journalists to see what tools they need to easily turn a broadcast story into a social media post and also a streamed story that can be updated quickly with little effort.

Newman said the stations needed to free up time so journalists could spend more time in the field producing high-quality content rather than waiting in the van or in the newsroom.

Technology from Arc XP helps crumble these roadblocks and allows reporters to own their stories rather than handing them off to an editor or digital specialist to get the story into a usable form. Arc XP’s AI isn’t creating content, but it is improving the process so jour-

nalists can create better content that connects with the community.

“If your content can easily be done by AI, then it’s probably not worthy content,” Croney said. “If it doesn’t cost anything to produce it, it probably isn’t worth anything.”

So Graham Media leans on

Arc XP’s technology to improve fact-checking, create different versions of stories, transcribe video, run teleprompters and track talent.

Graham Media even created its GMG Spark video, which was sent out internally to its journalists to demonstrate how AI can improve, not eliminate, their work. “People are using this tool, and no one has come back to us and said it hasn’t improved their work,” Newman said. “The team also encourages users to create apps within the system, and a Graham employee in San Antonio made one for SEO optimization.”

Graham Media is also seeing the potential of AI to create hyperpersonalized content that users, especially younger ones, have come to expect. And the company is using it to create hyperpersonalized ads, too. “Currently our advertisers are taking a stab at personalizing ads, but most of it really isn’t personalized,” Newman said.

Slagle encouraged media decision makers to involve journalists when exploring or testing technology and get as much feedback as possible. These leaders need to be honest about what’s working and not working, Slagle said, and to absolutely check back to see if journalists are actually using the tools. l

POLICY SESSION

FCC Commissioner

on a Monday Q&A panel at NAB Show, where she was outspoken about recent initiatives by Chairman

From left, Michael Newman and Stephanie Slagle of Graham Media Group and Joe Croney, Arc XP.

Democratic

Anna Gomez appeared

Brendan Carr.

EVS Inks Content-Management Deal With Al Jazeera

Video technology solution provider EVS announced a major agreement Sunday with Al Jazeera Media Network to deploy its MediaCeption content management solution across five key locations: Doha, London, Washington, D.C., New York and Sarajevo.

The solution, which is designed to speed up the international news organization’s content production, boost efficiencies and improve collaboration, is scheduled for installation in the second quarter and to go live in Q3.

As part of the deal, MediaCeption will provide Al Jazeera with a unified workflow designed to efficiently manage and edit live and near-live news content. Each location will have the capability to ingest multiple live feeds, browse, edit and share news packages from a centralized storage system, and seamlessly play out news as events unfold. The comprehensive solution includes EVS’s XS-VIA servers, the new media asset platform VIA MAP and the storage system XStore.

“We are pleased to work with EVS to bring MediaCeption into our news production ecosystem,” Ahmad Al Fahad, executive director of technology and network operations at Al Jazeera Media Network, said. “EVS’s proven track record of delivering fast and reliable solutions, combined with their global technical support presence, gives us the confidence to meet the challenges of modern news delivery. The deployment of MediaCeption will not only enhance our operational efficiency but also bolster our ability to deliver high-quality, timely content to our viewers around the world.”

Added EVS CEO Serge Van Herck: “This partnership highlights our

EVS’s MediaCeption will provide Al Jazeera with a uni�ed work�low for its newsroom.

commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer success, and we look forward to supporting Al Jazeera as they continue to set the standard in global news broadcasting.”

At NAB Show, EVS is demoing solutions designed to help broadcasters streamline live production and simplify the transition to IP infrastructures at its booth in the South Lower Hall (SL3316). ●

— George Winslow, TV Tech

Make the most of your NAB Show experience by downloading the 2025 NAB Show mobile app. The official show app has everything you need to plan for and navigate the show, including:

• View floor plans to easily find exhibitors and conference programming

• Build your personalized agenda

• Add your must-see exhibitors to your favorites list

• Find networking events throughout the show

Scan QR Code or Visit nabshow.com/app

RADIO AI ADVANCES

Radio Learns to Flex Its AI Muscles

Panel explores real-world uses in broadcast, from sales to voice

By Nick Langan RADIO WORLD

A session on the latest AI strategies for radio and podcasting featured a panel discussion with Dara Kalvort, corporate VP for digital sales and strategy at Spanish Broadcasting System, and John Parikhal, president of consulting firm John Parikhal + Associates.

Together, they offered a balanced look at the practical applications of AI in radio — insights they’ve each applied in real-world work with clients.

Kalvort said AI played a role in building out SBS’s digital division in 2022. With headquarters in Miami, Spanish translation of advertising copy is essential, yet early online translation tools weren’t always reliable. Today, she uses DeepL, an AI-powered translator

available in 33 languages; it allows users to hear the translated copy read aloud.

But sometimes, she noted, translation alone isn’t enough. For example, in Miami, the Cuban-Spanish dialect is critical. Kalvort shared that she has used OpenAI’s ChatGPT to generate content in that dialect with strong accuracy.

She also uses Waymark for AI-generated video content, including AI voiceovers in Cuban Spanish, to support advertising campaigns. Her efforts have required minimal adjustments to the produced content.

“As we’re growing digital on the radio side, sometimes we need to generate video product in a short amount of time,” Kalvort said.

She has seen high engagement on social media, particularly Instagram and Facebook, for AI-generat-

ed posts created on behalf of clients.

Kalvort encouraged broadcasters to look at areas of inefficiency, where AI can be a useful solution.

Parikhal, who advises media companies on future strategies, echoed that endorsement and added a measured perspective: “If you put low effort into your AI-generated content, you’ll get laziness,” he said.

Both speakers emphasized the importance of well-engineered prompts when using tools like ChatGPT.

“You need to put effort into them,” Parikhal said, adding that your competitors are likely already using similar tactics.

Kalvort shared that she prompted ChatGPT to ask 25 questions about a client’s business model. Based on that input, it generated 100 campaign ideas.

The panel also addressed the emergence of AI-generated on-air hosts. Parikhal cited 104.9 WRBF(FM) in Plainville, Ga., which uses Futuri technology to power overnight host “AI Gunner,” as a positive case study.

According to Parikhal, Futuri research shows that 90% of consumers believe it’s important to disclose when AI-generated voices are used.

“Radio is trusted by more of the population than any other medium,” he said. “If we break that for even a minute, we’re throwing away our heritage.”

What are other potential radio applications?

Kalvort uses Futuri’s AIdriven tools to generate spec spots and create on-the-fly audio demos for clients. Parikhal said companies like iHeartMedia and NPR are leveraging AI to produce hyper-targeted metrics by region. NPR, for example, has seen measurable increases in supporter engagement in certain areas as a result.

“All of these are possible use cases,” Parikhal said. “But there must be a strategy in place to measure success. You can’t skip that step.”

They also raised common concerns around hallucinations and data privacy. Both stressed the importance of double-checking AI-generated output — and of not entering sensitive information into publicly available models like ChatGPT.

For broadcasters just getting started with artificial intelligence, Parikhal described how some companies assign specific AI models — like Gemini or Claude — to individual team members so each can evaluate their strengths and limitations.

The panelists agreed: This is a fast-moving space. Technology evolves daily.

Final takeaway?

“Never use AI to do bad, and try to use it to do good,” Parikhal said. “If you keep that balance, you can keep your creativity intact.” l

From left, Moderator Jon Accorino, founder of Ordo Digital, Dara Kalvort of Spanish Broadcasting System and John Parikhal of John Parikhal + Associates.

SBE Adds Three New Fellows

The Society of Broadcast Engineers board elevated members Roswell Clark, Steve Keeler and Thomas McNicholl to Fellow, the group’s highest membership rank, on Monday at NAB Show.

Clark, CPBE, CBNT, from Clearwater, Fla., joined SBE in 1990 and has held leadership positions, including two terms on the SBE Board of Directors in 2018 and 2020 and serving on NAB’s Radio Technology Committee. He works as executive director of radio engineering for Cox Media Group and received Radio World’s Excellence in Engineering Award in 2021.

at WKTV Utica, where he is chief engineer. He has been the chair of SBE Chapter 22 since 2016 and has taken on chairing the annual SBE Technology Expo since 2003. ●

— Alyson Trager, SmartBrief

Keeler, who is from Auburn, N.Y., is a distinguished service professor emeritus at Cayuga Community College (SUNY) and has been a member of SBE Chapter 22 Central New York since 1989. He is a former chair of the National Education Association and is the executive producer of the SBE 22 Student Career Seminar LIVE Stream.

McNicholl, CBTE, of Whitesboro, N.Y., began and continues his career

Fuji lm Brings

Cinematic Look to Sports

Fujifilm has adopted a sports theme for its NAB Show booth (N1239-N1439) to promote its emphasis on bringing the cinematic look to live sports.

“Our booth is going to have a multisport field with an anchor desk and we’re going to show all the different ways you can make use of the new [cinematic] look,” Fujifilm spokesman Lee Groeger said.

Among the new introductions is the A30x7.8, a portable zoom lens for 2/3-inch sensor broadcast cameras. It covers the focal range from 7.8 millimeters wide to 234 mm telephoto and has a compact and lightweight design, measuring 190 mm and weighing 1.8 kilograms.

“It’s very much a traditional video lens but a new design that provides a very high-quality optic leads-performing lens at a very affordable price point,” Groeger said.

The company is also previewing its first film camera under glass. The Eterna is based on the current large image sensor for Fujifilm’s GFX100 II, which touts a large 102-megapixel CMOS II sensor, significantly larger than the sensors found in typical full-frame cameras. ● — Tom Butts, TV Tech

Avid Brings New Leadership and Technologies to Vegas

New executive leadership, new investments in developing products and a host of new solutions are on display at Avid’s booth (SL1516) as the company showcases new features of its MediaCentral platform and the public debut of Avid’s integration with Wolftech following its recent acquisition.

“As news organizations navigate the shift to digital-first storytelling, they need solutions that empower creativity and cooperation, efficient resource management and quicker content delivery,” Avid CEO Wellford Dillard said. The company “will demonstrate how our latest innovations move the world and give news teams enhanced workflows for creating, distributing and monetizing news content, more quickly and cost-effectively, winning viewers across multiple touchpoints.”

The 2025 NAB Show also marks the first public demonstration of the Avid-Wolftech integration, combining Avid’s MediaCentral platform with the Wolftech News cloud platform, which Dillard described as “a milestone in newsroom innovation and efficiency.”

Avid has also signed a strategic collaboration agreement with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and announced it is partnering with Bergen, Norway-based CuttingRoom to power Avid’s next-generation web-based editor. Initially integrated into Avid’s Wolftech News product, Avid’s enhanced web-based editor uses CuttingRoom’s cloud native technology to deliver a significant leap forward in collaborative, browser-enabled editing, the company reported. ●

— Tom Butts, TV Tech

Roswell Clark Steve Keeler

Thomas McNicholl

Alex Bartholomew

of

SHOW SHOTS

Justin Schwartzbauer (left) of The Fiber Guy demonstrates its Heliac-R Fiber Optic Testing Suite for Sean Hercher, broadcast technologist at MVCC.

Stuart Wood (left) of Speechmatics gives a demo of the company’s AI-powered speech recognition tech to Roy Folkman of CineSys.

Sebastian Diaz takes a seat behind the wheel of the Dell Technologies Porsche for a Lollipop Racing-inspired virtual production demo.

Scott Johnson, aka “Squirrel,” poses next to his buggy car with Insta360 X4 8K 360 Action Cams attached.

(left)

AWS talks with Qumulo’s Brandon Whitelaw for the AWS Podcast.

LucidLink Is Enterprise-Ready

LucidLink, a provider of cloud-based creative solutions, is marking the NAB Show debut of its latest platform, which provides cloud-based creative solutions designed to streamline production for teams of all sizes.

Matt Schneider, director of product marketing, said the new LucidLink will give customers a “highly secure, highly adaptable” platform. The latest version demonstrated at the company’s booth features a new mobile app for iOS and Android, web browsing, dynamic tiering and AWS high-performance storage and marketplace availability, and SAML-based single sign-on.

Offering SAML — an identity provider protocol — was crucial for bringing the platform to enterprise-level security and flexibility, Schneider said. While earlier versions required a desktop client, “the new LucidLink expands the reach of the experience with a new web application, so you will be able to see your data directly in the browser.”

Dynamic tiering was another important new feature, Schneider added. “Dynamic tiering is a way for enterprise organizations to better manage their costs and without needing to move their data,” he said.

Schneider said the new features and its partnership with AWS mean

that LucidLink is “truly enterprise-ready.”

“We announced our partnership with AWS in November when we launched the new LucidLink and now all data storage for our customers is based on AWS, which is our only storage partner,” he said. “We’re growing that strategic partnership with the introduction of being listed on the AWS Marketplace.”

LucidLink is in Booth SL2705. ●

— Tom Butts, TV Tech

LucidLink will show its latest platform at its booth in SL2705.

SVOD STRATEGIES

SkyShowtime’s Monty Sarhan Shares His Euro Vision

Chief of the Comcast-Paramount Global joint venture discusses lessons learned in streaming subscription content to 22 diverse markets

By Jenny Priestley TVBEUROPE

Launched in February 2023, SkyShowtime is available in 22 markets on the European continent. The streaming service is a joint venture between Paramount Global and Comcast, offering a diverse range of content in 19 languages, with a focus on United States and local entertainment.

The JV was a great way for the two U.S. giants to pool their resources, according to SkyShowtime CEO Monty Sarhan, not just in terms of content but also technology. SkyShowtime is built on Comcast’s tech stack, which is also used for Peacock in the U.S.

“For the past two years, we’ve been live across 22 different markets in Europe, and they are really interesting and diverse markets,” said Sarhan, speaking at the Streaming Summit’s Keynote Fireside Chat.

None of the 22 markets in which the streamer operates is the same, Sarhan added. “We have some of the richest markets in Europe and some of the poorest markets in Europe,” he said. “They are in different places on the voyage towards a direct-to-consumer future. They have different consumption and viewing habits.

“When you have markets that are that diverse, you have to have different strategies,” Sarhan continued. “There is no one-sizefits-all strategy for success in international markets. We lean into the differences that exist in all these regions, and that’s been, I think, a key part of our success.”

Another key part of SkyShow-

time’s success is that it delivers its content in 19 languages (and not one of them is English).

“Every piece of content either has subtitles or dubs, in some cases both, and the interface is in 19 different languages,” he said. “We try very hard to meet the consumer wherever he [or she] is, and to show up and be authentic in terms of content.”

What makes SkyShowtime unique among its competitors is that it does not own any sports rights. Sarhan said he feels that the streamer’s audience isn’t missing that content. However, he’s not ruling out the idea that SkyShowtime could follow its U.S. cousins by introducing it in the future.

“For me, the great thing about working at a streaming service in Europe is that, having worked in the U.S., in subscription television and in streaming, you kind of know what the pattern is,” he said. “You know what’s going to eventually happen. You know how the movie turns out. And so that’s allowed us to, I think, take a lot of interesting bets.”

Sarhan and his team have found great success by putting the customer first. At launch, SkyShowtime offered a 50% discount to anyone who signed up, driven by post-COVID timing, an economic crunch and a need to break through. “As a new service, you’re getting scale and profitability,” he said. “If you come out with

a not-so-great price point, it will severely diminish your ability to scale and grow.”

That first cohort of viewers is treated “like gold,” Sarhan said. “You have to make sure that you show that appreciation to the consumer. In fact, internally, we don’t call them subscribers, we call them members. Netflix does the same thing, so I’m not going to take credit for it. But for us, it creates a different mindset internally, when you’re thinking about the fact that this person is a member, a subscriber or a sub is a very inanimate term. This is a person who has a family, and they want to watch certain content. So we try to keep them personal, every single person.” ●

“We lean into the di�ferences that exist in all these regions,” said Monty Sarhan, le�, in his conversation with NAB Show Streaming Summit Chairman Dan Rayburn.