Demystifying Broadcast Technology Trends

The broadcast industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic forced many broadcasters to adopt new technologies and workflows to keep up with the demand for remote and at-home broadcasting. Some technologies stuck, and others fell to the wayside. So what’s here to stay?

REMI Workflows

One such technology that has gained popularity in recent years is REMI (Remote Integrated Media Workflow). REMI workflows allow broadcasters to produce live content from remote locations, using cloud-based technologies and remote production systems. This allows them to continue their operations even during pandemic lockdowns, when in-person production is not possible.

IP Broadcasting

Another trend that has been on the rise in the broadcast industry is IP broadcasting. IP broadcasting refers to the use of Internet Protocol (IP) networks for the distribution of audio and video content. This has led to a shift away from traditional broadcast technologies, such as satellite and cable distribution, towards more flexible and scalable IP-based solutions. Protocols like NDI, SMPTE 2110 and WebRTC have empowered users to leverage these workflows at scale.

Decentralized Broadcasting Technology (AKA Cloud Tools)

Decentralized broadcasting technology is another area that has seen significant growth in recent years. With the rise of remote work, decentralized broadcasting technology has become an essential tool for many broadcasters. This technology allows broadcasters to produce live content from remote locations, using cloud-based technologies and remote production systems. This has enabled broadcasters to continue their operations even during pandemic lockdowns, when in-person production is not possible. Companies like LiveU, Vislink, Comrex and more have been leading the charge for years, and now we’re seeing adoption across all levels of production.

Smaller and More Capable Cameras

The broadcast industry has also seen a shift towards smaller and more capable POV (Point of View) and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras. These cameras are smaller, more versatile, and easier to use than traditional broadcast cameras. They are also (usually) more affordable, making them accessible to a wider range of producers and broadcasters. The combination of these features makes them ideal for use in remote and at-home broadcasting, where space and budget are often limited.

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Rebounding to Pre-Covid Technologies?

As the world begins to recover from the pandemic, broadcasters are slowly rebounding to their pre-Covid technologies. Especially for large scale productions like sporting events, awards shows, late night shows and more where on-site crews are typically preferred. However, the industry has been irrevocably changed by the pandemic, and many of the new technologies and workflows adopted during the pandemic will continue to play a significant role in the industry.

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For more on the state of broadcast technology, watch below as Steve Wind-Mozley and Joyce Essig from LiveU joined me on a recent episode of Pro AV Today.