As the IBC 2024 trade show approaches, the broadcasting world is buzzing with anticipation. This year, the spotlight is on TVU Networks, a company that has consistently pushed the boundaries of broadcasting technology. Their transformative approach to cloud-based production and AI integration across every aspect of the media supply chain, is setting new standards for broadcasters worldwide. This is the story of how they did it.
From vision to reality: the cloud revolution
In 2017, when TVU Networks first introduced cloud and AI workflows, the industry was skeptical. Adding to their successful TVU One live video transmitter, the idea of using cloud technology to handle major broadcasting events seemed far-fetched. Fast forward to 2024, and that vision has become a reality. Leading broadcasters have embraced these innovations, transforming their workflows and setting new benchmarks for the industry.
Paul Shen, CEO of TVU Networks, recalls, “When we started, many doubted the feasibility of cloud for major events. But we believed in its potential to revolutionise broadcasting, and today, that belief is our customer’s reality.”
Transformative success stories
BBC and the UK elections: The BBC’s coverage of the UK elections is a testament to the power of cloud technology. With 369 live feeds managed seamlessly in the cloud, the event was hailed as the “most ambitious personalised live video offer BBC News has ever delivered on election night.” This project highlighted the scalability and efficiency of cloud-based workflows and TVU’s unique capability to blend cloud with existing on-prem workflows seamlessly.
Jonny McGuigan, Streaming Editor at BBC, stated, “The ability to choose from any one of 369 counts on the night meant we could always be where the story was. When augmented with our traditional broadcast live SNG and bonded connectivity, we could guarantee we’d be where audiences needed us, on digital platforms, TV, and radio all night long.”
France Télévisions and the Paris Games Torch Relay: Another significant achievement was the Torch Relay for the Paris Games. France Télévisions used a 100% cloud-based workflow combined with private 5G and Starlink technology to broadcast live, 24/7 for nearly three months. This comprehensive approach managed all aspects of production—from live feeds and multi-camera switching to graphics, commentaries, audio mixing, intercom, and playout—entirely in the cloud.
Frédéric Brochard, CTO and CIO at France Télévisions, explains, “This innovation gives editorial teams the ability to produce more content with greater adaptability and responsiveness, while controlling costs and maintaining the quality standards dear to France Télévisions.”
“The robustness and reliability of this setup resulted in 92% cost savings and a reduction of over 600 tons of CO2 emissions compared to traditional workflows.” adds Romuald Rat, director of tech lab and AI at France Télévisions, “This project would not have been possible otherwise. Thanks to TVU, we offered extensive coverage of the Torch Relay, achieving over 50 million viewers and viewing times three times higher than other popular sports events in our catalogue.”
These two leading media organisations will share their unique workflows and future applications on the TVU stage at IBC 2024, on Saturday, September 14th.
Breaking new ground at IBC 2024
As we look forward to IBC 2024, TVU Networks is set to unveil even more innovations. After introducing their award winning routing platform at NAB, TVU MediaHub, their comprehensive cloud production platform now covers all aspects of HD and UHD broadcasting, from contribution and ingest to audio mixing, graphics, commentaries, replays, slow motion, scheduling, and playout.
This year, attendees can expect further advancements that make cloud technology even more accessible and transparent for engineers and operators, turning the once “black box” of cloud workflows into a fully transparent and user-friendly experience.
“Our goal is to make broadcasting more efficient, more sustainable, and more accessible,” says Paul Shen. “By working closely with our customers, we can solve the challenges they face and push the boundaries of what is possible.”
For those eager to see the latest in AI-assisted media supply chain technology, visit TVU Networks at IBC 2024, Hall 5, A91. You can expect cloud innovations that enhance production quality, streamline workflows, and reduce environmental impact.
Hall 5, A91
