Improving the Television Viewing Experience
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Broadcasters are eager to deploy Next Generation TV and in 2018 continued to experiment with broadcasts using the ATSC 3.0 standard. Through Next Gen TV, broadcasters are able to deliver the benefits of ultra-high definition TV to viewers, which includes high-resolution, multichannel immersive audio, interactive features and customizable content.
NAB partnered with Capitol Broadcasting Company’s WRAL-TV and NBC Universal to present the Winter Olympic Games from the Republic of Korea using Next Gen TV on an experimental broadcast channel in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Broadcasters collaborated with the Consumer Technology Association and Tribune station WJW to operate a “living laboratory” Next Gen TV test station in Cleveland, Ohio, and also successfully aired the Winter Olympic Games in ultra HDTV.
Two initiatives to establish markets for early deployment of Next Gen TV – one led by an alliance of broadcast station groups known as Pearl TV, and one led by Sinclair, Nexstar and Univision – are underway.
Learn more about Next Gen TV here.
With 270 million people in the U.S. listening to radio each week, radio continues to be the dominant choice for audio entertainment, despite the proliferation of numerous new streaming options.
In 2018, broadcasters continued to leverage this strength to offer the interactive experience that radio listeners desire wherever they may be. NAB and PILOT are actively working with automakers and internet service providers from around the globe to develop the next generation of radio that combines broadcasting with internet connectivity to create new and engaging user experiences. They are also working with numerous auto manufacturers like Ford, General Motors and Honda on various software development projects for radio in the connected car.
NAB is also collaborating with the largest U.S. radio groups to improve the presence, appearance and overall positioning of radio on the car dashboard.
Learn more here.
The PILOT Innovation Challenge recognizes creative ideas that leverage technological advances in the production, distribution and display of engaging content. The program also provides support to the winners for development.
Participants of the third annual Innovation Challenge submitted their original ideas to answer the question, “What is an innovative way broadcasters and other local media could serve communities?”
Submissions are judged by a diverse panel of experts from the broadcast, venture capital, media and tech industries. Twelve finalists were announced at the end of November. A smaller panel of judges will select the top six finalists. Winners will be chosen by participants at NAB Futures, held January 27-29 in Seattle.
Thanks in part to a grant from Knight Foundation, the top six entries will be awarded cash prizes, with one prize each in the amounts of $30,000, $25,000 and $20,000 and three prizes in the amount of $15,000. Winners will also receive relevant mentorship, access to key broadcast executives and unmatched exposure at industry events.