IBC 2024 has announced various new features to boost networking, learning, collaboration, and business opportunities at this year’s event. Scheduled to take place at the RAI Amsterdam from September 13-16, IBC executives have detailed the introduction of an AI Tech Zone, the IBC Talent Programme and a first-time AV Speed Pitch Event, among other highlights. These elements will focus on the event’s key themes: Transformative Technology, Shifting Business Models, and People and Purpose.
Speaking about the event, Michael Crimp, Chief Executive Officer of IBC, said: “IBC continues to find new ways to address the trends, issues, challenges and opportunities driving innovation in media and entertainment. Additions to the show, such as the AI Tech Zone, the Talent Programme, and the AV User Group event, combined with the outstanding line-up of visionary speakers for this year’s Conference, ensure that IBC is again positioned to deliver the world’s foremost M&E event. This year, with major global sports events and election coverage putting media performance more in the spotlight than ever, we bring together an industry looking to tap new methods and technologies as it continues to redefine itself.”
The new AI Tech Zone, a unique addition to this year’s event, powered by EBU in Hall 14, will serve as a hub for AI providers, creators, and solution vendors to demonstrate how AI can positively impact the industry. The AI Tech Zone Stage, sponsored by Wasabi Technologies, will feature industry leaders sharing insights on AI’s transformative role in media and entertainment. A networking zone sponsored by DOT Group will facilitate direct engagement with pioneering AI innovators such as AI4ME, AudioShake, Magnifi, MobiusLabs, The Weather Company, and Video.Taxi, Vionlabs, Zaibr and Videolinq.ai.
On September 16, the IBC Talent Programme, a free-to-attend event, will be hosted in the Showcase Theatre in Hall 8. This programme is designed to explore how the M&E community can nurture new talent, make training accessible, and develop standards for diversity and inclusion. It will examine the benefits of partnerships and mentoring, promoting the industry to the next generation and driving engagement with M&E companies.
Another engaging feature of IBC2024 is the Audio Visual (AV) Speed Pitch Event on September 12. In collaboration with the AV User Group, this event is a unique opportunity for 40 AV buyers to interact with media technology companies, including major purchasers such as Arup, AstraZeneca, Bank of America, Barclays, Deliveroo, Schroders, UBS, and WPP, and discover innovative solutions.
Leading global media technology brands such as Arabsat, Arri, Avid, AWS, Blackmagic, BT Media, Canon, Comcast, Eutelsat, Evertz, EVS, Google, Grass Valley, Harmonic, Huawei, Imagine Communications, LG, Lawo, LTN, Mediakind, Microsoft, Nagra, Panasonic, Riedel, Ross Video, Samsung, SES, Sony, Tata Communications, Telestream, Zero Density, Zixi and ZTE will also be exhibiting.
Steve Connolly, Director at IBC, noted: “We’re seeing overwhelmingly strong demand from exhibitors, with many returning brands increasing space and new companies coming in. There is already a very positive buzz around the exhibition this year — visitors to IBC 2024 will see exciting demos and get the chance to meet an increasingly wide array of innovative brands from across the media technology landscape. With the introduction of the AV User Group event, IBC continues to broaden its scope and provide more opportunities for both exhibitors and visitors.”