CAPITALISING ON CONTENT
Saudi Broadcasting Authority transforms content archives into revenue stream with new online platform
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Dominic De Sousa (1959-2015)
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WELCOME
It was great to see many of you at IBC this year! The event once again proved to be a melting pot of ideas and innovations in the media industry. Among the discussions, the rise of interactive content, the role of 5G in live broadcasting and the critical need for diversity in media representation were particularly interesting for this region. However, the big focus remained on cloud technology and AI.
AI has become the blue-eyed boy of the tech world, and it’s easy to see why. It has significantly changed our work environment, taking on tedious tasks and freeing us up for the more creative aspects of our jobs.
In contrast, cloud technology may seem like old news but its implications for broadcasting are far from resolved. While cloud solutions have transformed how media organisations operate, offering greater flexibility and scalability, the journey towards cloud adoption in the MENA region is still fraught with challenges.
One major hurdle is infrastructure. The Arab world continues to grapple with insufficient internet bandwidth and reliability. Without robust connectivity, seamless content delivery remains elusive. Then there are the regulatory and compliance issues. With varying laws across countries regarding data sovereignty and privacy, we face a patchwork environment that stifles innovation and slows down adoption. Cost is another factor; the initial investment and ongoing operational expenses can be daunting for many broadcasters. Additionally, data security concerns loom large, creating further hesitation around cloud adoption.
So while the discussions at IBC were about taking cloud and AI to the next level, we are still addressing more fundamental challenges in our region. It’s crucial for broadcasters to tackle these hurdles head-on to unlock the full potential of cloud technology and AI.
And where can you hear more about this? At the 14th edition of the ASBU BroadcastPro Summit on 6 November at the Habtoor Grand in Dubai. If you haven’t registered yet, spaces are filling up fast!
VIJAYA CHERIAN, EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
UPDATE NEWS
Broadcast Solutions opens CoE for nxtedition newsroom in Dubai; IMG partners with Alamiya Media for SPL coverage; Evision signs partnership with Hearst Networks; BeIN Media Group launches TOD Studios; Creative Technology Middle East invests in Robe; and more
COVER STORY
MONETISING SAUDI ARABIA’S CULTURAL ARCHIVES
Saudi Broadcasting Authority has launched an online platform that provides its rich repository of visual and audio treasures. SBA’s Digital Archive Manager, Turki Al Otaibi, discusses how the platform integrates new tech and robust licensing models
INTERVIEW
BREAKING NEW GROUND
As the Middle East news scene heats up, Sky News Arabia’s General Manager Nadim Koteich discusses how the channel’s editorial and technical strategies will sustain its leadership in pan-Arab media
SPORT
RAISING THE STAKES WITH AI
Incorporating advanced technologies such as AI and automation in content creation in grassroots sports is not just about keeping up with trends; it’s about creating a sustainable and engaging ecosystem that benefits athletes, fans and the broader community, says Meghna Krishna
IBC WRAPUP TECH TALK
Paul Mongey, a DoP based between Dubai and the UK, arrived at IBC with a shopping list. With an emphasis on enhancing collaboration for international clients, he explored cuttingedge technologies poised to elevate live production in broadcasting. He shares his findings with BroadcastPro ME
BossaNova Media secures sales for new Stampede series in EMEA region
SATELLITE
EDGE launches space company to strengthen UAE’s space capabilities
FILM
CineGouna Platform selects 21 Arab film projects for funding
COMMS
Vodafone and Intelsat expand satellite connectivity services
Spacetoon Licensing to represent Topo Gigio in Middle East
Let’s create a vibrant online broadcast community!
PRODUCTS
Genetec launches Cloudlink 110 for simplified video management
The new device is available through Genetec’s network of accredited partners worldwide
Saudi Arabia’s streaming market shifts as local content gains popularity
PRODUCTS
Qvest introduces Composable OTT platform blueprint at IBC2024
Qvest will be showcasing the market launch of Composable OTT as well as use cases empowered by generative AI
FILM
Red Sea Film Foundation announces 48Hr Film Challenge 2024 winners
PRODUCTS
B-com implements AI-powered SDR-to-HDR conversion on Synaptics VS680
Sublima on the VS680 is now available for integration into next-gen video systems
SATELLITE
SpaceX set to launch five commercial satellites for AST SpaceMobile
PRODUCTS
Grass Valley launches two additions to Densité
Modular Platform at IBC
The ACE-3901 delivers the highest IP input/output density on the market
NEWS
Ooredoo Kuwait expands 51 digital platform to Samsung smart TVs
PRODUCTS
Ross Video unveils
Carbonite Ultra Solo
The compact production switcher is designed to deliver professional switching in a cost-ef fective package
NEWS
IBC2024 announces winners of Innovation Awards
10/24
Broadcast Solutions opens CoE for nxtedition newsroom in Dubai
Broadcast Solutions has opened a Centre of Excellence in Dubai dedicated to nxtedition newsroom solutions. This new hub will design and deploy turnkey systems for on-premises and hybrid newsroom operations across EMEA and Southeast Asia. It will offer extensive training programmes for media professionals, ensuring they can fully harness nxtedition’s capabilities. An integrated support
centre will work alongside the nxtedition hotline in Sweden, providing ongoing assistance. It will focus on optimising nxtedition deployments for both traditional broadcasters and digital publishers. Rainer Kampe, CTO of Broadcast Solutions, said:
IMG PARTNERS WITH ALAMIYA MEDIA FOR EXPANDED SPL COVERAGE
Global sports and events company IMG has selected Saudi firm Alamiya Media to provide additional facilities and resources for its coverage of the Saudi Pro League (SPL) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF). This partnership follows IMG’s recent appointment by SPL and SAFF to deliver top-tier production
for all Roshn Saudi League, Saudi Super Cup and King’s Cup matches. Alamiya Media will support IMG’s operations until 2030. The collaboration highlights IMG’s commitment to offering global broadcast opportunities and nurturing local production talent in the region.
“Initially developed as an automation system for live studio productions, nxtedition has evolved into a full-fledged end-toend news and programme production platform. It transcends the conventional separation between NRCS and news production systems (NPS) rooted in the MOS era. This innovation enables more agile, efficient workflows, perfectly suited to the demands of modern breaking news coverage.”
AL ARABIYA NEWS NETWORK EXPANDS GLOBALLY WITH NEW ENGLISH SHOWS
Al Arabiya News Network has expanded into international markets with new English-language news segments and a slate of new shows presented by international journalists. The expansion brings prominent news
figures such as Rosanna Lockwood and Tom Burges Watson to Al Arabiya, where they will cover topics ranging from international politics and current affairs to culture and human-interest stories.
Roger Persson, Sales Marketing Director & Partner of nxtedition, flanked by Stefan Breder, MD and CEO, Broadcast Solutions, and Nicolas Hans, Partner, Broadcast Solutions Middle East.
Rosanna Lockwood. Tom Burges Watson.
Evision signs multi-year strategic partnership with Hearst Networks
Evision and Hearst Networks EMEA have announced a multi-year partnership to bring The History Channel, History2 and Crime+Investigation to viewers in the UAE. Available on eLife TV, the channels enhance Evision’s extensive line-up of over 600 channels, offering subscribers historical and crime documentary programming.
SAUDIA EXPANDS IN-FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT WITH SHAHID CONTENT
Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, has partnered with MBC Group’s Arabic streaming platform Shahid to bring more than 150 hours of exclusive entertainment to its BEYOND in-flight entertainment system. This collaboration aligns with Saudia’s commitment to bring local and Arabic content as part of its initiative to immerse guests in Saudi culture. Saudia’s BEYOND system provides over 5,000 hours of HD content, including international and regional films, TV shows and e-books. The partnership supports Saudi Arabia’s 2030 vision to promote local content.
Olivier Bramly, CEO of Evision, said: “Combining
our extensive distribution network with Hearst Networks EMEA’s exceptional content, we are excited to bring these world-class channels to a wider audience in the UAE.”
Sunil K. Joy, Head of Content, Evision, added:
“Traditional linear TV remains a dominant force in the entertainment business
due to its broad reach and established audience base. The perceived brand credibility associated with such premium network TV channels, along with compelling narratives and insightful analysis, continues to draw significant viewership and is a great value addition to our pay-TV services.”
SAWA SECURES DEAL TO DISTRIBUTE FOX NEWS AND FOX BUSINESS IN MIDDLE EAST
Media distribution company SAWA Rights Management has announced a strategic partnership to distribute Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network to cable operators across the Middle East. This agreement will grant viewers in the region access to Fox News coverage and programming through a variety of platforms, including cable TV networks and premium hospitality services.
GLOBECAST TO ENHANCE GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION SERVICES FOR AL JAZEERA MEDIA NETWORK
Al Jazeera Media Network (AJMN) and Globecast have launched a new global distribution solution for AJMN’s suite of channels across multiple platforms. Globecast now offers AJMN comprehensive managed distribution services, including global satellite coverage on five continents, terrestrial distribution to affiliates and a cloud-based OTT platform for Al Jazeera
English, Arabic and Documentary. This advanced solution is designed to ensure top-tier service quality, with 24/7 supervision and support through a robust
infrastructure featuring seamless switching capabilities. It allows Globecast to manage services and handle any adjustments in line with AJMN’s priorities.
From left: Giorgio Giacomini, MD for MENA, Globecast, with Al Jazeera Executive Director of Tech & Network Operations Ahmed AlFahad and Director of Network Creative Ramzan Alnoimi.
Olivier Bramly, CEO, Evision.
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BeIN Media Group launches TOD Studios
BeIN Media Group has launched TOD Studios, a new addition to its OTT platform TOD. Known for delivering top-tier sports content to viewers across the MENA and Türkiye, TOD will now expand its offerings to include premium Arabic, Turkish and international entertainment, as well as children’s programming.
Central to this expansion is a commitment to producing original content. Over the next year TOD Studios plans to release over a dozen original titles, including the Turkish series Sorgu and the Egyptian
production Sarab, both set to premiere later this year. The launch of TOD Studios comes as TOD approaches its third anniversary. Since its debut in 2022, it has produced 43 original titles, including the docuseries Ons
Jabeur: This Is Me and the Ramadan hit Zaman Al Ajaj. All original productions will now fall under this new banner, reinforcing the platform’s dedication to creating high-quality, locally-driven content.
Esra Özaral, Chief
ASHARQ DOCUMENTARY MARKS FIRST ANNIVERSARY WITH ORIGINAL PRODUCTION LINE-UP
Asharq Documentary has marked its first anniversary, celebrating a milestone in providing on-demand documentary content to Arabicspeaking audiences across the region. In its first year the platform
delivered more than 1,000 hours of content and 20,000 social media posts, amassing more than 620m views across multiple platforms. With over 3m followers on social media, it claims to have become the
fastest-growing entity on digital platforms in the MENA region and a premier source of highquality documentaries.
To commemorate its anniversary, Asharq Documentary has unveiled a fresh lineup of original content covering politics, culture, business, economics and history. The new documentaries offer in-depth analyses of historical events and untold stories that shaped the modern world, along with profiles of influential figures.
Entertainment Officer of beIN Media Group, said: “As one of the leading entertaining businesses in MENA, we are uniquely positioned to elevate stories from a highly diverse and nuanced perspective. The creation of TOD Studios cements our commitment to entertainment and original content as a group. Alongside Miramax, the Hollywood studio part of BeIN Media Group, we will look to leverage synergies to enhance both Arabic and Turkish productions, improving their quality regionally while sharing them globally.”
WAYNE BORG EXITS NEOM FOLLOWING RACISM ALLEGATIONS
Wayne Borg, Managing Director of Neom Media Industries, has had to leave Neom following allegations that he made disturbing comments following the deaths of three manual workers. In light of these allegations, Michael Lynch, the Arts and Culture Executive, has been appointed Acting Sector Head for Media at Neom. This comes as other top executives are under scrutiny for alleged racism and inappropriate workplace conduct.
IMI launches academy with Emirati news presenter Faisal Bin Huraiz at the helm
IMI, a global media group headquartered in the UAE, has launched the IMI Academy with a curriculum focused on media, journalism and content creation. IMI Academy is another milestone in the company’s ongoing transformation under Group CEO Rani R. Raad, who is also President and Operating Partner of RedBird IMI. This launch follows a series of strategic initiatives, including appointing new divisional leaders at IMI, introducing new Editors-inChief at Sky News Arabia and CNN Business Arabic, and revamping the group’s editorial assets with a focus on content strategy and product innovation.
Raad said: “From the outset, our vision has been to build IMI into a global media powerhouse that empowers lives through cutting-edge media products, content and user experiences, delivered by best-in-class journalists and professionals. We are proud to have made significant strides toward that goal over the past year, and we recognise that this progress brings with it a responsibility to nurture the next generation of media talent in the region. IMI Academy will introduce a new offering that supports
the ongoing learning and development needs of our evolving industry.”
Under Bin Huraiz, the Academy will introduce training and development programmes, featuring modern curricula delivered through advanced practical teaching techniques and accelerated learning methods. All courses will be aligned with global standards to ensure the highest levels of professionalism and will incorporate the latest technologies and AI tools.
CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY MIDDLE EAST INVESTS IN ROBE LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY
Creative Technology Middle East (CTME), with bases in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, has continued to enhance its technical capabilities for live events and system integration projects with significant investments in new Robe moving light fixtures. Over the past three years it has steadily upgraded its lighting inventory, recently adding 24 FORTES, 80 LEDBeam 350s and 4 RoboSpot BaseStations with motion cameras under the guidance of Sam Connolly, CTME’s Head of Lighting, who joined the
company three years ago. The FORTES were among the first investments. CTME has also invested in Robe’s RoboSpot Follow Spot system to complement the FORTE fixtures. Connolly also introduced Robe’s LEDBeam 350s
to the company’s inventory. CTME then added another 40 LEDBeam 350s to its arsenal in 2023. Connolly highlighted the fixture’s wide zoom range, brightness and speed, calling it “a great little light”.
When selecting the FORTE, Connolly found no other comparable 1,000W LED engine luminaire on the market. Robe’s ongoing support and training have helped, with several CTME crews receiving RoboSpot training. Looking ahead, Connolly is exploring Robe’s iFORTE and iFORTE LTX fixtures, designed for outdoor use, which are well-suited to the Middle East’s outdoor event scene. He also plans to acquire more LEDBeam 350s, which remain in high demand.
Image: Louise Stickland
Emirati news presenter Faisal Bin Huraiz.
Sam Connolly with Robe fixtures.
Yango Play unveils its first original Egyptian reality series, El Ghaleb Ghaleb
Yango Play released its first original Egyptian reality series, El Ghaleb Ghaleb recently. Filmed in Egypt, the UAE and Saudi Arabia, it features two new episodes each week. Spanning eight episodes, the show explores the life of an influential Arab woman who juggles her personal and professional responsibilities while dealing with the pressures that come with fame.
Hadia has established herself as an influencer and successful entrepreneur and fashion icon in the Arab world.
OOREDOO KUWAIT’S 51 DIGITAL NOW AVAILABLE ON SAMSUNG SMART TVS
Ooredoo Kuwait’s digital entertainment platform 51 is now accessible on all Samsung smart TVs with the Tizen operating system. This update is available for models from 2018 onward. The integration of the 51 platform with Samsung TVs ensures that users benefit from Samsung’s advanced audio and visual technologies, offering a cinematic experience at home.
As founder of the Hadia Ghaleb label, she gained attention with her burkini line, which sparked discussions across the region and beyond. El Ghaleb Ghaleb promises to reveal the true Hadia, showcasing
her efforts to balance fame, family and business while exploring her journey in search of love. The series aims to provide an intimate look at her life, highlighting the challenges she faces in various aspects of her world.
The show also introduces Hadia’s close-knit family and friends, including her perfectionist father Tarek and her sociable mother Imane. Along with friends, colleagues and potential romantic interests, these individuals add layers of complexity and drama to Hadia’s story. Viewers will get to see the different sides of Hadia, leaving them to ponder which will ultimately prevail – the determined entrepreneur, the devoted daughter or the hopeful romantic.
PODEO PARTNERS WITH BINARY MEDIA TO BRING PODCASTS TO UAE TAXIS
Podeo, a MENA podcast platform, has launched an exclusive distribution channel in partnership with Binary Media, a passenger experience platform. This partnership integrates Podeo’s podcasts into Binary Media’s In-Cab Connected TV (ICTV), giving taxi commuters across the UAE the opportunity to explore audio content during their rides. In Dubai alone, there were 198.44m taxi rides in 2023, offering
podcasters a chance to reach a large and engaged listenership through this channel. The partnership leverages Binary Media’s advanced operating system to deliver an immersive, on-the-go listening experience. Real-time insights, available through Podeo’s creator tools, enhance creators’ ability to maximise their engagement and monetisation opportunities.
Hadia Ghaleb in El Ghaleb Ghaleb.
Saudi Arabia’s OTT market shifts as local content gains popularity
Streaming preferences in Saudi Arabia are undergoing a significant transformation, with 71% of online media consumers reporting they watched locally produced content in Q1 2024, according to a report by BB Media. This growing demand for local programming is reshaping the streaming market and shifting platform market shares. The rise of local content has impacted the dominance of foreign streaming giants, with Saudi platforms gaining prominence. In 2022, platforms like Netflix held four out of the top
five positions in market penetration. However, in early 2024 Shahid took the lead, followed by STC TV. This shift reflects a growing preference for regional content. While Netflix’s catalogue in Saudi Arabia is made up of 96%
foreign content, Shahid offers nearly half of its programming from Saudi Arabia or the broader MENA region. Only 4% of Netflix’s library is in Arabic, posing a challenge for the streaming giant to cater to local tastes. In response, Netflix has
TOD AND HARMONIC PARTNER TO ENHANCE LIVE SPORTS STREAMING IN MENA
TOD, beIN Media Group’s streaming platform, and Harmonic have partnered to transform live sports streaming.
James Walmsley, Director
of Technology,
Product and Analytics at TOD, said: “Given the intricate nature of live sports streaming workflows, it is essential to have a scalable video platform that offers
the highest video quality and reliability with no margin for error. Harmonic’s VOS360 media SaaS unifies the entire media processing chain, increasing the efficiency of live and VOD sports streaming. By reducing latency and providing autoscaling, the VOS360 platform allows us to deliver unrivalled sports experiences leveraging Deltatre’s DIVA player.”
announced plans to expand its Arabic-language slate, with new seasons of popular shows like Al Rawabi School for Girls, Finding Ola and Dubai Bling set for 2024. The platform is also introducing new titles, including Honeymoonish, Basma and Love Is Blind, Habibi, to better compete with local providers. Saudi Arabia’s streaming landscape is increasingly driven by demand for culturally relevant and Arabic-language content, with local platforms like Shahid benefiting from this trend.
ANGHAMI SEES 18.3% GROWTH IN SUBS AFTER OSN+ TRANSACTION
Anghami has reported an 18.3% growth in its video streaming subscriber base following its recent transaction with OSN+. As of the end of July 2024, this surge had been driven in part by the release of House of the Dragon season two. Notably, 47% of new subscribers have opted for the newly launched Premium 4K plan, highlighting strong demand for high-quality video content in the region.
Harmonic XOS advanced media processor.
FROM ARCHIVE TO ASSET
With Saudi Arabia experiencing a corporate gold rush, the Kingdom’s media assets have become highly coveted on the global stage. Seizing this opportunity, Saudi Broadcasting Authority has launched an online platform offering access to a rich repository of the Kingdom’s visual and audio treasures. In an exclusive interview with Vijaya Cherian, Turki Al Otaibi, SBA’s Digital Archiving Manager, reveals how this platform integrates cutting-edge technology and robust licensing models, heralding a new era in Saudi content distribution
Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA) has launched a new digital content marketplace named Sayma, offering both newly produced and legacy content from its extensive archives to clients such as production companies, content creators, agencies, media organisations and other parties seeking Saudi content online. GCC systems integrator MAAS World developed and manages the entire platform, integrating solutions from various service providers in the digital streaming space.
SBA owns a massive archive of legacy content and produces fresh material daily, according to Turki Al Otaibi, Digital Archiving Manager and Head of Copyright, who led this project. “We have seen a lot of interest in Saudi content over the years, which motivated us to embark on this project. The Sayma platform offers a smooth and efficient way to navigate SBA’s rich archive and license the content they need through a simple online process.”
Al Otaibi has worked at SBA for
over 12 years, focusing on digitising the organisation’s vast array of tapes. “Although SBA has been digitising its media assets for a long time, the current archival project began six years ago in 2018 to digitise its 1.2m assets, which translates to approximately 400,000 hours of content.”
Significant project milestones included preparing these assets, integrating them with SBA’s operating systems, setting up media hosting and streaming services, and developing a bespoke content management system (CMS) alongside a user-friendly UI/UX interface.
Al Otaibi elaborates on the project’s tech highlights: “We used AI to improve around 150,000 items and digitise 10,000 more. This project focused on preparing short-form content and ready-produced material, enriching the metadata of archived content, and integrating the SBA archive – and potentially other Saudi entities – into the marketplace. This automation made it easier to add content to the platform.
Hosting and streaming of media content were critical components, as was building the CMS to meet Sayma’s specific requirements. The project also included designing and developing a UI/UX interface to simplify online purchasing and content delivery.”
The project spanned approximately one year from the initial planning phase to completion. While the platform had a soft launch, SBA is awaiting the green light from the authorities for an official launch. Al Otaibi anticipates that it will go live within the next month, allowing users to register and access its services.
Content from the Kingdom has generated considerable interest, Al Otaibi notes. “In our first year of operations in 2019, we sold around SAR 2m ($500m) worth of assets, and now we are at SAR 15m ($4m) a year.”
The Sayma platform will now offer various licensing models tailored for production companies, channels and government sectors interested in using video related to the Kingdom. “This flexibility is
crucial because we are one of the largest countries in the region with an extensive repository of content.”
SBA previously processed content requests through email, a system Al Otaibi describes as effective yet not as efficient as desired. “Customers send us requests, we share some videos for them to review, they decide what they want, and then they pay. We transfer the content via a link. The whole process takes between 24 to 48 hours. With the online platform, however, they can view a range of footage and choose what they want; the transaction is immediate.”
As the Sayma platform is intended to attract clients from all over the world, it will be available in both English and Arabic. Current customers include production houses and news agencies such as the BBC and Sky News, along with airlines like Emirates and Saudi Airlines.
Al Otaibi’s role involves leading a team of around 30 people dedicated to this project. Each year, they archive around 30,000 media assets across 15 channels under the SBA.
Data security was a top priority in this project. Advanced cybersecurity measures were implemented to protect the intellectual property of all media materials. Digital rights management (DRM) has been implemented alongside HLS encryption to safeguard video content on the platform and control access to copyrighted material, enabling rights holders and content creators to manage what users can do
with their content, such as how many devices they can access media on and whether they can share it. Additionally, the AI system was hosted on-premises to comply with Saudi regulations and the CMS was developed in accordance with Saudi cybersecurity standards to ensure the security of data both in storage and during transmission.
One impressive part of this platform is the AI technology integrated into it. “We trained the AI for speech-totext in Arabic, providing it with audio samples to improve accuracy. This is an ongoing process; we continue to upgrade the system and assist the AI in learning better,” Al Otaibi says.
This project involved extensive collaboration between the vendors, who tailored their solutions to meet the client’s needs. Brightcove Zencoder was used to transcode all the content from the Sayma archive into the Brightcove Video Cloud. Each piece of content is ingested into Brightcove with multiple renditions, to ensure smooth video streaming. Tedial’s MAM system was integrated with Brightcove for hosting and streaming, as well as with IDenTV’s AI platform for metadata enrichment. It also
The website presently has around 1.2m media assets on it.
Around 30 employees from SBA worked on this project.
handled transcoding and slicing of the content for AI processing by IDenTV.
A custom-developed CMS was created to manage the marketplace, linking the Tedial MAM system, IDenTV AI tools and Brightcove’s video hosting services. This was crucial for automating workflows and simplifying backend operations for the Sayma platform. Once the results are ready, the CMS pushes the metadata into Tedial, initiating a QA/QC process to enhance the outcomes. These modifications will be tracked and stored for retraining the AI module.
“We have been very careful in selecting technologies for this project,” explains Al Otaibi. “Brightcove provided the best quality with minimal download requirements. This was critical to meet Sayma’s goal of delivering a seamless streaming experience to clients.”
Sayma partnered with IDenTV to work closely on training the AI modules to handle both old and new content, and the ability to host the AI platform on Sayma’s premises to comply with Saudi regulations was also a determining factor, he adds.
We have seen a lot of interest in Saudi content over the years, which motivated us to embark on this project
TURKI
AL OTAIBI, DIGITAL ARCHIVING MANAGER AND HEAD OF COPYRIGHT, SBA
An important element was the archival process, which primarily dealt with audio, video and photo formats. These different media types were digitised and prepared for online access and purchase through the Sayma marketplace.
Undertaking such a massive project brought a range of challenges. One major challenge involved transitioning to digital services for both content provision and financial payments. Another was the discovery and cataloguing of content, which was addressed by leveraging toptier AI systems. The high volume of content within the MAM system needed to be managed efficiently and integrated with the platform. Additionally, integrating SBA’s vast archive with AI platforms, media hosting and streaming services, and a marketplace CMS required
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a highly automated workflow. Content preparation needed careful consideration, as Sayma wanted to provide short-form content for use in other productions and marketing collateral. It also wanted to offer licensing for both legacy and ready-produced content.
The vendors and suppliers collaborated extensively to address each of these needs, explains MAAS World Executive Director Adeeb Abed, adding that extensive training followed.
“Once the project was completed, a comprehensive training programme was rolled out, which included video tutorials outlining the implementation steps in detail. Live training sessions were also conducted, followed by tests to ensure that the team could execute all the required processes effectively and manage the system post-launch. The team gained experience through hands-on experimentation with the system during the testing phase, ensuring that they understood the processes and were prepared to maintain the platform correctly after the project’s completion,” he says.
MAAS provides ongoing technical support for the project, with a 24/7
helpline available to address any technical issues that may arise for users or the platform itself. The broadcast network has clear monetisation strategies in place to maximise SBA’s assets, primarily through licensing its media content.
“Our platform’s commercial strategy is built around different licensing models, providing various types of content such as rushes and edited short-form content. The flexibility in licensing allows media companies and content creators to access and use the archived materials in their productions or marketing efforts,” explains Al Otaibi.
“In addition, the project will generate new income streams through content partnerships with both government and private sector entities. Additionally, licences will be provided to content display platforms, creating further revenue opportunities.”
Sayma’s success is attributed to the robust technology partnerships that have facilitated its development. With 200-250 current users and growing interest from over five streaming platforms, the project is set to open new avenues for content monetisation and distribution.
As Al Otaibi looks to the future, he concludes by highlighting plans to expand the platform’s offerings.
The Sayma platform offers a smooth and efficient way to navigate SBA’s rich archive
TURKI
AL OTAIBI, DIGITAL ARCHIVING MANAGER AND HEAD OF COPYRIGHT, SBA
“We are signing contracts with other production companies and government entities to include their archives in our platform. We are also considering multiple tools to enhance the marketplace in the future, such as AI search and content discovery tools to help our clients find content. We are looking to add more security tools to protect content in the marketplace. In addition, there are several other features in the pipeline.”
Extensive training was provided after project completion, says Adeeb Abed, Executive Director of MAAS World.
The platform is built around different licensing models, says Turki Al Otaibi.
NAVIGATING THE NEWS WAVE
As the Middle East news scene heats up, Sky News Arabia is adopting a data-driven approach to enhance its content and reach a broader audience. In an exclusive interview with BroadcastPro ME, GM Nadim Koteich shares insights into the channel’s editorial and technical strategies aimed at maintaining its leadership in pan-Arab media
With competition intensifying in the MENA news broadcasting landscape, what is Sky News Arabia’s game plan?
No news brand, no matter how well-known or established, can stand still if it wants to stay on top. Any changes we make must be data-led, and at the moment we are focusing our innovation on two key areas: the content we produce and the platforms we use to share it. This means adapting our programming based on viewers’ preferences. This year we have refreshed some of our political shows, including the noon and 9pm bulletins, adding more in-depth analysis, and launched new series like Today’s File to complement other existing political programmes such as The Newsroom, The Tough Question and Radar, which provide commentary and debates from both sides of the table.
Sky News Arabia is currently the number one pan-Arab news channel in Egypt, as per the latest Ipsos data. We also have the highest share of linear TV among local audiences in the UAE. Our aim is to retain this loyal viewership while attracting new audiences. To that end, we’ve introduced three new non-political shows, Morning with Maha, Business with Lubna and our sports programme Counter-Attack, and these are just a few of our recent launches, with more to come. These formats appeal to a broader audience with engaging, light-hearted and insightful content. For example, Business with Lubna has already achieved significant success, garnering over 21m organic views across social media in three months.
With our fresh programming, we are confident that we will appeal to an even larger audience across the Arab-speaking world. We leverage
data-driven insights to ensure our stories reach audiences where and when they want to consume them, optimising content for different platforms, whether short- or longform, vertical or horizontal. Research shows that vertical videos are 150% more successful in click rates than horizontal ads on social media.
We also take great pride in the talent we have at Sky News Arabia. With teams spread across 18 bureaus outside the UAE, we cover the political spectrum, bringing in specialists our audience should hear from and letting viewers form their own opinions by providing wider context from both sides of the debate.
We understand SNA is pushing forward with a new, outside-thebox strategy. In this context, could you tell us some of SNA’s content plans and how you intend to make news more appealing to an increasingly diverse audience? It’s important for content to be as diverse as the region itself and tell the stories that matter to the entire Arabic-speaking population. We produce content that resonates with various demographic groups, both regionally and globally. Our unique approach to news is to tell the full story, offering perspectives others may shy away from. It’s essential that we provide our audience with content that educates, stimulates curiosity and challenges perspectives. To achieve this, we are expanding our coverage to include more in-depth analysis, human interest stories and investigative journalism, ensuring we not only inform but also engage viewers across all segments, including digitally savvy youth, informed professionals, community leaders and the Arab diaspora. Additionally, we are adapting our
It’s important for content to be as diverse as the region itself and tell the stories that matter to the entire Arabic-speaking population
NADIM KOTEICH, GM, SKY NEWS ARABIA
that matters and supports a better and brighter future. This aligns well with our strategy of focusing on forwardthinking, hopeful programming.
That’s not to say we’re going to ignore difficult news stories, but we want to maintain the mindset that a brighter future is ahead, no matter how challenging the world may seem. We aim to foster dialogue, showcase both sides of the debate and let our viewers make up their minds, but it takes a certain kind of person to be open to that. You have to be intellectually curious and open to reassessing your views, rather than someone who is stuck in the past and believes that nothing will ever change.
news for today’s audience, who often prefer to consume content in short-form clips or infographics on social media. We are committed to delivering concise, engaging stories that maintain the depth and balance we are known for, while catering to different viewing habits.
It is said that news from the MENA region is typically targeted at the 40+ age group. Has this proven true for SNA? If not, how is SNA innovating to also cater to a younger audience to get them interested in news? Our audiences span a variety of age groups – in fact, this year at SNA we saw a 45% increase in engagement from Gen Z audiences on our TikTok. We do not look at age groups when we analyse our audiences; instead, we study their interests and behaviours and cluster them that way. The digital revolution has impacted most age groups that watch our network. Our audience is forward-thinking, progressive and educated, and we know that they care about content
That’s the demographic we are speaking to, and it cuts across generations, as Sky News Arabia has nearly 53 million followers on social media. That is why we are evolving how we share the news across our various social media platforms, on the website and on air, so we can reach that demographic wherever they’re tuning in.
What are the long-term goals of Sky News Arabia?
We are dedicated to being a platform that not only informs but also inspires our audience to think critically and act decisively in shaping a better future, a vision we see unfolding right here in the UAE. To achieve this, we are expanding our reach by embracing cutting-edge technology, diversifying our content and deepening engagement with Arabic-speaking audiences across the region and beyond. While continuing to provide balanced and nuanced perspectives on global and regional issues, we strive to be a trusted source of news that empowers people to make informed decisions. We will also soon be moving to our new state-of-
the-art studios on Yas Creative Hub, which will allow us to harness the latest advancements in broadcasting and content creation, enabling us to elevate the way we tell stories and engage with our audiences.
What strategies has SNA employed to engage with and retain its audience in the digital age? How does SNA balance traditional broadcasting and the growing demand for digital content?
One of the key strategies we’re introducing is our focus on creating digital-native content across all platforms while still leveraging
No news brand, no matter how well-known or established, can stand still if it wants to stay on top
NADIM KOTEICH, GM, SKY NEWS ARABIA
linear TV to feed and support our digital operation. This approach acknowledges the shift in how audiences consume news and information, particularly as more people turn to digital and social platforms as their primary sources for news. By producing content that is specifically tailored for online platforms like TikTok, Facebook, X and Instagram, we ensure that we are not just repurposing TV content but crafting unique experiences that resonate with the fast-paced, mobilefirst habits of today’s consumers. At the same time, we recognise the enduring power and reach of linear TV, particularly in regions where it remains a dominant medium. By using linear broadcasts to drive attention to our digital platforms, we can effectively bridge the gap between traditional and digital audiences. Our TV content serves as both a foundation and a feeder for our digital efforts, allowing us to deliver breaking news, in-depth analysis and live updates on TV while creating more interactive and bite-sized versions of these stories for social media and websites. This cross-pollination between linear and digital ensures that we remain relevant on all fronts, reaching viewers wherever they choose to engage with the news. By adopting this integrated approach, we are not simply following where audiences are going but anticipating their needs, offering a seamless and engaging experience across all platforms. Linear TV fuels the digital operation by providing a reliable stream of high-quality content that can be adapted, repackaged and shared digitally in real time, ensuring that our coverage is always up-to-date and accessible to audiences across all formats.
ELEVATING THE GAME
Incorporating advanced technologies into grassroots sports is less about keeping up with trends and more about fostering an environment that benefits athletes, fans and the broader community, says Meghna Krishna
Sports fans in the UAE and Saudi Arabia rank among the highest globally in their optimism about AI’s impact on sports, with the 2024 IBM Survey revealing that more than 50% express positive sentiments. This is because AI has become indispensable in transforming the landscape of sports broadcasting and streaming, fundamentally enhancing the quality and engagement of the viewing experience. It has been – and will continue to be – key to meeting the needs of sports fans in the new immersive sports era.
In particular, Generation Z fans today crave a social and interactive sports experience across multiple platforms. This was most recently highlighted in a 2023 survey by Deloitte that showcased that nearly all of this age group use social media to consume sports-related content. As digital natives, creating connections with their favourite athletes on social media is of great importance to their fanhood. Around 80% of Gen Z fans follow a professional athlete online. This then leads them to watch and attend sports events that their favourite athlete is participating in, follow their brands or other athletes they interact with, and buy products they promote.
Fan engagement is also not just
reserved for those in the best-known sports and elite positions, but also at the grassroots level. Collegiate athletes are the superstars of tomorrow, and MENA can learn a lot from the importance of grassroots investment.
AI-enabled engagement for athletes from the start
Incorporating advanced technologies in grassroots sports is not just about keeping up with trends, it’s about creating a sustainable and engaging ecosystem that benefits athletes, fans and the broader community. Implementing technologies such as AI and automation in content creation allows sports programmes to offer professionallevel viewing experiences to fans. Highlights and real-time replays can make college and university sports more accessible and engaging for a broader audience, including remote fans who cannot attend games in person. When fans feel more connected, they are more likely to participate in events, support teams and athletes, and spread the word, therefore growing the fanbase organically.
AI tools now enable efficient management of large volumes of content, which is crucial for sports
programmes often operating with limited resources. By demonstrating a robust and engaged fan base, colleges and universities can also secure additional funding and resources, which can be reinvested into sports programmes to improve facilities, training and overall athlete development. By enhancing the fan experience, efficiently managing content and leveraging social media, sports programmes can achieve significant growth and long-term success.
Proven success in automating systems for sports content
Following a close examination of the global sports broadcasting industry, Al-powered tools today help automate the creation, editing and distribution
of game highlights and social media content, ensuring greater flexibility and scalability without additional costs. By utilising automated systems, a small team can handle the spikes involved with large volumes of gameday content, ensuring timely and relevant updates for diverse sports to the waiting audience.
Prior to the adaptation of these tools, this was a time-consuming job. Simultaneously producing and publishing content at scale in real time to uplift the overall engagement rate is a difficult task, particularly for businesses handling a significant number of sports. Aspect ratio, channels, personalisation for contextualisation, device fragmentation – all these factors have to be considered to ensure an intuitive, seamless and low-latency solution for demanding viewers.
Enabling seamless growth in the new era of sports
The ability to establish a seamless workflow that covers the automated generation of highlights packages and more, as well as to then populate active social channels with the content in a timely manner, is at the root of successfully embracing the immersive sports era. These systems are an important part of the overall picture if sports rights holders want to maintain the growth that the democratisation of production has started. Sport is no longer the exclusive preserve of expensive and largescale OB operations, but the task of clipping and repurposing content for multiple platforms has acted as a brake on the aspirations of
many rights holders to maximise the value of their content. AI and automating these processes are going to play a critical part in moving forward. This technology is allowing rights holders at all levels, from collegiate conferences to lowertier federations and on to national broadcasters, to ensure their content engages audiences quickly and costeffectively wherever they might be and on whatever device they are watching. By adopting automated systems, sports organisations in the MENA region can scale their content production with small teams, handling the large volumes of content that come with multiple sporting events across diverse sports. Overall, MENA broadcasters and sports bodies can enhance viewer engagement by leveraging AI to optimise content for different social media platforms, ensuring the content is more engaging and suited to the preferences of a variety of audience demographics. By integrating analytics into content distribution strategies, MENA sports organisations can monitor and improve viewership, engagement and overall content performance, leading to better-targeted campaigns and audience growth.
MEGHNA KRISHNA IS GROUP CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER AT MAGNIFI
WHAT CAUGHT MY EYE AT IBC2024
Paul Mongey, a DoP based between Dubai and the UK, arrived at IBC with a shopping list. With an emphasis on enhancing collaboration for international clients, he explored cutting-edge technologies poised to elevate live production in broadcasting
Attending IBC in Amsterdam is an annual pilgrimage for some of us, who look at it as the perfect place to shop for new tech. As a DoP at Global Creative Video, which offers live multicam pop-up studios connecting VVIPs in the region to most international broadcasters around the world, I was looking for a number of different solutions. For one, I was looking for a solution that would allow my foreign clients to have live remote access into our Dubaibased editing. I was also shopping for options for an edit review collaboration platform, and live streaming, live encoding and streaming hardware.
We have used traditional SNG satellite dishes, multiple LIVEU units and full HD 1080 versions of ZOOM. But my goal at IBC this year was also to gain knowledge, enjoy some demos and make new contacts in the live streaming side of our business. Here are some technologies that caught my attention.
Blackmagic Design’s 17K camera featuring 8K live broadcasting capabilities was launched for the first time at the show. At just $29,999, that seemed a good find.
I was on the lookout specifically for collaboration platforms that could help stream live edit sessions directly to clients around the world. There were several systems on display at IBC, but the ones that grabbed my attention were Pixelview and ClearView Flex from UK company Sohonet.
Pixelview is a live collaboration tool built for remote editing. This realtime platform can work on projects from anywhere, always ensuring everyone’s in sync. It can stream the NLE editor’s output using SRT or NDI from Avid or Adobe’s Premiere, or encode through Blackmagic Design’s 4K Mini & Recoder 3G via OBS. But I feel these options could put some additional strain on my edit system,
and I would prefer the Pixelview hardware option using the dedicated plug-and-play H.265 Magewell encoder, requiring only an SDI signal and a hardwired internet connection.
You can invite your clients to Pixelview Player to review, comment and interact remotely with the editor. It is supported in both web browsers and iOS apps. To ensure high-quality and low-latency streaming near your location, there is a global network of servers which spans Los Angeles, New York, London, Amsterdam and Sydney.
Pixelview offers three monthly subscription plans: five viewers for $175, ten viewers for $210 and twenty viewers for $285. The last two options also include watermarking and LUT support. The firm also offers a three-month subscription for ten viewers including their encoder for $899, or $1,199 for six months.
The second platform is Sohonet’s Emmy-winning remote collaboration ClearView Flex, which run on purposebuilt rackmount, desktop unit or
virtually on AWS, Azure or VMware. It streams encrypted live video and audio with sub-100ms latency from any source – camera feed, video village, edit system, VFX workstations – via HDMI, SDI or NDI, and can securely stream editing review sessions for up to 40 viewers on laptops, tablets, phones or Apple TV. The collaboration stream supports 2K 8-bit 4:4:4 or 10-bit 4:2:2, and SDR or HDR (via the Glow pricing package) on iPhone, iPad and Apple TV. Like Pixelview, ClearView Flex also offers chat, with the ability to pause playback and add onscreen annotation, keeping everyone in the picture. Sohonet says it recreates that ‘over-theshoulder’ collaborative experience.
Sohonet offers three tiers of monthly service: $638 for a Starter account, $1,413 for a Pro account and $1,614 for a Glow account. Starter includes up to 2K SDR with 8-bit 4:4:4 with 20x individual viewers, and Glow includes HDR / Rec 2020, P3-D65 10-bit 4:2:2 streaming with up to 40x viewers globally.
Paul Mongey.
Live streaming
There were many powerful live streaming software services at the show that enable users to easily produce professional broadcasts. But I was searching for an ultra-low-latency (ULL) solution with ‘glass-to-glass’ latency of sub-one second. Telestream and vMIX showcased their latest streaming software, while Blackmagic Design and Atomos displayed their hardware solutions, including C2C (camera-to-cloud) with live feed capability. I also met up with Dolby. io, BirdDog and Nanocosmos to demo their live streaming solutions.
Dolby.io’s Millicast platform offers real-time ULL live streaming. It uses WebRTC (web real-time communication) technology for direct peer-to-peer communication, which reduces buffering, making it ideal for streaming events that require realtime interaction such as live sports and gaming, and offers 4K streaming across a global CDN network. It raises the standard for live streaming, offering sub-one-second latency and combining robust technology with
an easy-to-use dashboard. It stands out as a cutting-edge solution.
Dolby offers a free Test account with 50Gb bandwidth, a Standard plan for $495 a month with 500Gb bandwidth streaming, and a Personalised plan with custom bandwidth and of course a custom price.
BirdDog Cloud Connect
My second live streaming option is BirdDog Cloud Connect, launched five years ago. The most recent version has a user-friendly interface that allows management and real-time monitoring of NDI devices, making it simple to switch between different sources and set up configurations. It is designed to streamline the process of connecting and managing NDI (network device interface) workflows in live video production.
BirdDog Cloud Connect uses NDI 5 to offer a two-frame delay for remote production and remote monitoring, with multiview workflows. It provides a fast connection to your live production and can connect directly to BirdDog PLAY, laptop, Apple TV, iPhone, iPad
and Android devices. Before streaming to Cloud Connect, you use a BirdDog 4K Family converter to encode your HD or UHD (up to 60fps) source into NDI 5, which can be streamed to individual viewers around the world. Convertors cost $949-2,099. BirdDog offers monthly and annual packages with Standard and Premium tiers. The cheapest (3x concurrent connections) is $149 a month, and the most expensive (10x concurrent connections) is $3,229 a year.
Nanocosmos
Nanocosmos offers a suite of tools designed to simplify the streaming process. Its flagship product, nanoStream, is an ultra-low-latency streaming solution to deliver highquality video in real time, making it a great choice for esports, gaming and live events. The content delivery network has a global footprint, allowing you to stream around the world, whether to a few or a few thousand viewers. There are three nanoStream Cloud packages. Starter (up to 5x ingests 24/7, with 500 viewers and 200Gb data) is
$239 a month; Medium (10x ingests 24/7, 2,500 viewers and 1,000Gb data) is $599 a month; Custom (flexible ingests, viewers and data) is a custom price.
Hardware
Following meetings with Haivision, Matrox and AJA Video Systems. I decided to look at Teradek and Sony, who were showing their latest encoder/streamer solutions with planned firmware upgrade to allow remote switching of (for example) the Blackmagic Design ATEM-Pro and ATEM-Extreme range of mini switchers.
As part of its 5G Networked Live ecosystem, Sony showed its new PDTFP1 solution, allowing live streaming and file transfers in the field. This portable data transmitter, which costs $1,099 and looks like a slightly bulky mobile phone, uses a SIM card and an e-SIM to switch between networks for better connectivity. You can use the PDT-FP1 to live stream in RTMP via the Sony C3P portal, but this is not an ultra-low-latency option. For that, you pair with the CBK-RPU7 (c. $16,000), a V-mount dockable encoder
which can stream to Sony NXL-ME80 receivers for REMI production with ultra-low latency from the field. We are waiting for a launch date of the Sony PDT-FP1 in our region.
Teradek Prism Flex / Prism Mobile
Two features on the Teradek Prism range are very interesting for my company. The Prism Flex mark 2 (856) is a desktop model costing AED 13,000. The Prism Mobile Mk2 (857) is a portable 5G bonded cellular device with a v-lok or gold mount adapter to mount to broadcast cameras; it can stream up to 4K 4:2:2 @ 10-bit HDR and costs AED 20,200. The unit allows a single HD or UHD video to be streamed to Teradek’s Core platform, where you can control and assign the onward path to stream this ultra-low-latency source to another Teradek receiver via Teradek Reliable Transport. I was interested in the Core Teradek TV option, which would allow me to share direct encrypted live feeds from any or all of my on-set cameras to a select number of viewers, such as clients in the UK or US, to view in real time and comment throughout the production.
Conclusion
My goal for the IBC2024 visit was to discover the best mobile live encoder, collaborative remote viewing and ultra-low-latency, high-quality live streaming options for my clients. Each year in our industry, I find new streaming options, and with the growth of the lucrative online gaming and esports industries, companies are getting closer to the goal of high-bitrate, high-resolution, ultra-low-latency delivery at sub-100ms (encode, stream, decode) ‘glass-to-glass’ speed to anywhere in the world. I find synergy between the live remote editing collaboration systems and the live streaming systems. As the new production season kicks off in the region, I will now decide which system to invest in.
PAUL MONGEY HAS BEEN BASED IN DUBAI FOR THE PAST 17 YEARS AND IS THE FOUNDER AND CEO OF GLOBAL CREATIVE VIDEO, A VIDEO PRODUCTION AGENCY DEDICATED TO DEVELOPING VIDEOS.
BLACKMAGIC DESIGN’S PYXIS MONITOR IN FOCUS AT IBC
Blackmagic Design’s PYXIS monitor is a versatile 5” HDR touchscreen monitor with full camera control for its PYXIS camera. It provides an additional monitoring and camera control option that can be mounted almost anywhere, so it’s perfect for use when rigging or when accessories block the Blackmagic PYXIS internal display. The monitor will be available later this year from Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide from $295. The monitor is an adjustable high-brightness monitor designed for the PYXIS camera. It’s a powerful extension of the camera with a touchscreen
so customers can control all of the camera’s features. Multiple mounting points make it easy to attach directly to the camera as a large viewfinder, or to any camera rig for easier focusing and framing.
The large LCD
touchscreen makes it ideal as a viewfinder for easier focusing and framing, or as an assist station so crew can frame and monitor shots from any position on set. The 1,500nit highbrightness screen makes monitoring easy, even in
bright sunlight. Plus, the PYXIS monitor includes a removable sunshade that folds up to protect it when not in use or when travelling. When recording, the monitor has a bright tally light that’s easy to see from a distance. There are three customisable buttons for quick access to zebra, focus assist, false colour and more. The monitor is easy to set up, as it connects to the camera using a USB-C cable, giving access to video, power and camera control from a single cable with locking screws at both ends to safely and securely attach it.
This monitor also works with Blackmagic URSA Cine.
VINTEN INTRODUCES VERSINE 360 FIXED CAMERA SUPPORT
Vinten’s Versine 360, a new pan-and-tilt head designed for fixed camera positions without box lenses, was showcased at IBC this year. Developed in collaboration with major OB companies, it addresses the needs of live TV production with its compact design, precise control and adaptability. The smallest head in its class, Versine features Vinten’s patented compact balance mechanism, accommodating a wide range of camera and non-
box lens configurations with a payload of 0-40kg (0-88lb). Its multi-standard base is compatible with four industry-standard fixings, including flat base and
150mm bowl, eliminating the need for additional adapters. This simplifies the set-up process, making the Versine 360 a versatile tool for various production
environments.
“Versine 360 is a reflection of our ongoing relationship with professionals who push our technology to its limits,” said Steve Turner, Head of Product at Vinten. “We listened closely to operators and engineers and that collaboration is clear in the practical, user-driven innovations we’ve integrated. This isn’t just about meeting the demands of today’s productions; it’s about anticipating the needs of tomorrow.”
Stuart Ashton, Director at Blackmagic Design.
Steve Turner, Head of Product, Vinten, with Ibrahim Al Akkad, Regional Sales Director –ME, Videndum Production Solutions.
AJA DEMOS VIRTUAL KONA IN PARTNERSHIP WITH AWS AT IBC
AJA showed a preview of Virtual KONA, a new software-defined, virtualised video capture/playback solution that the company is developing in collaboration with AWS. It integrates the AJA NTV2 software development kit (SDK) with AJA video I/O cards, together with AWS cloud digital interface (CDI). AWS CDI is a network technology for transporting highquality, uncompressed video inside the cloud with high reliability and latency as low as 8ms. Combined, the technologies break down the barriers between on-premises and cloud for media production, allowing third-party developers to build solutions across both environments for a range of applications spanning broadcast
through live streaming, post and beyond.
Virtual KONA and the AJA SDK provide a direct plug-in to AWS CDI, making it possible for any software application that supports KONA to connect to the cloud for I/O. This eliminates the need for developers to code an integration from scratch, while offering all the same media and metadata capabilities that AJA’s line of audio and video I/O cards offer, but in a virtual environment. Third-party applications and hardware solutions that leverage the integration will be able to seamlessly input/ output uncompressed HD video between the cloud and local workstations to support VFX, colour correction, editorial, broadcast graphics, playout, streaming and so on.
CLEENG SHINES WITH AI AT IBC
At IBC2024, Cleeng unveiled the new ChurnIQ AIssistant, which uses a generative AI chatbot to proactively identify crucial subscriber insights to inform smarter business decisions. AIssistant is part of ChurnIQ, Cleeng’s subscriber retention data solution that predicts churn risk with 95% accuracy, the highest rate in the industry. It features the video market’s only data lake that ingests both subscriber data and third-party data to reveal behaviour insights, and alerts media professionals with relevant insights related to their activity – product, marketing and finance.
Cleeng CEO
and founder Gilles Domartini said: “At Cleeng, we recognised the power of AI early on and invested in data infrastructure years ago. We now have a state-of-the-art LLM model for subscriber retention analytics. By making it easy to surface the insights customers care about, ChurnIQ AIssistant is a game-changer for all professionals working in the media industry.”
FOR-A exhibited AR/XR/VR capabilities with Koala camera tracking and ClassX graphics solutions at IBC. An Alfalite LED wall completed the dynamic stand display. With Mohammed Eid Abujarad, Sales Manager – MEA, FOR-A.
Nick Rashby, President, AJA Video.
Gilles Domartini, CEO of Cleeng.
STEFAN NIESEN
In adopting the cloud, broadcasters open the door to new opportunities for monetising content
Cloud broadcasting in the streaming era
In 2018, MENA cloud adoption was in its early stages. But by 2024, barriers had diminished thanks to the entry of hyperscale cloud service providers (CSPs) and the establishment of data centres across multiple countries. Governments have initiated digital transformation efforts such as the UAE’s Smart Dubai, Saudi Arabia’s Neom and Bahrain’s Cloud First policy. Likewise, collaborations between telcos, broadcasters and CSPs have eased the shift to cloud platforms, with robust investment expected to drive IT spending in MENA above $180 billion in 2024.
During that early adoption period, we invited regional executives to a roundtable discussion to explore cloud adoption’s opportunities and challenges. Participants agreed on the necessity of cloud adoption for broadcasting’s future due to scalability, flexibility and adaptability to evolving consumer demands and technology. However, concerns about job losses, security and declining linear TV viewership persisted, revealing the need for technology suppliers to better support the transition to cloud-based operations. Ultimately, with ongoing education and increasing implementation, broadcasters began to realise the benefits of cloud adoption.
Cloud adoption in MENA has made a significant impact on audience reach and quality of experience, as well as broadcaster ROI. Cloud infrastructure supplied by major CSPs
has enabled effective scaling of services, allowing broadcasters to address a broader audience while improving service availability and reliability. Cloud and edge computing have played a crucial role in enhancing QoE and audience engagement. Using these technologies to decentralise data processing, reduce latency and eliminate bandwidth constraints, broadcasters have been able to improve content delivery speeds. This capability has proved particularly beneficial for streaming services, which rely on fast and reliable data processing to maintain high QoE standards.
While cloud adoption continues across the MENA broadcast market, concerns about potential disruptive breaches and inadequate cloud security measures persist. A December 2023 survey by Illumio indicated that 70% of Middle East organisations – higher than the global average – believe their cloud security is lacking and could not stop an attack. Many organisations in the region run high-value applications and store sensitive data in the cloud, a fact that heightens those concerns.
To address this reluctance, businesses and government leaders can prioritise cybersecurity when choosing a cloud provider. Additionally, the deployment of multicloud infrastructures can support regional regulations and business mandates, which help alleviate concerns over data sovereignty
and compliance while introducing greater resilience and reliability.
The impact of cloud adoption on jobs is a concern, but it also presents opportunities for boosting operational efficiency and upskilling existing teams. Along with internal training programmes, reskilling programmes implemented by cloud service providers and governments are helping to equip professionals with the necessary skills for managing and securing cloud environments, ensuring workforce relevance in the digital transformation era.
In adopting the cloud, broadcasters open the door to new opportunities for monetising content. While linear TV viewership has declined, broadcasters can implement cloud infrastructure to support the launch of FAST services. Expanding on conventional business models, they can capitalise on the familiarity of traditional TV while offering the accessibility and convenience of streaming. Specifically, FAST provides a strategy to engage audiences through curated linear viewing experiences while leveraging cloud technology for monetisation opportunities. Personalised content curation and flexible monetisation models can further enhance revenue streams and viewer engagement in this evolving media environment.
STEFAN NIESEN IS VP SALES, EMEA AT AMAGI
