Riedel Communications Acquires hi human interface

Riedel Communications has acquired hi human interface® from Broadcast Solutions, adding a powerful, vendor-agnostic control system to its growing technology portfolio. First introduced in 2018, hi is a browser-based, platform-independent tool that makes it easier for operators to manage broadcast and production devices through a simple, customizable interface. Its scalability, zero-configuration setup, and compatibility with both on-premise and cloud systems make it a versatile solution for modern workflows.

By bringing hi into its family, Riedel strengthens its ecosystem with a proven control solution that already integrates seamlessly with MediorNet infrastructures, SmartPanels, and SimplyLive production tools. Backed by Riedel’s global reach, the hi platform will continue to evolve as an open, manufacturer-independent solution, offering broadcasters and production teams greater flexibility, freedom, and support.

Riedel Communications today announced the acquisition of hi human interface® from Broadcast Solutions, bringing a powerful, vendor-agnostic control system to its growing portfolio of broadcast, event, and production technologies.

Introduced by Broadcast Solutions in 2018, hi is a browser-based, platform-independent control layer that enables operators to manage a wide range of devices – including baseband routers, multiviewers, video and audio mixers, and third-party SDN controllers – through an intuitive, customizable interface. With automatic device discovery, zero-configuration setup, and distributed architecture, hi offers seamless scalability from a single laptop to enterprise-wide or cloud-hosted systems.

“This deal is the culmination of years of successful partnership between Riedel and Broadcast Solutions,” said Stefan Breder, CEO Broadcast Solutions Group. “hi is a truly exceptional solution with a bright future ahead, and we believe that Riedel has the global reach and resources to fully unlock its enormous potential as a product. Together, we’re opening a new chapter in our alliance – laying the foundation for future projects that are even larger in scale, bolder in vision, and stronger in impact.”

“I am delighted to welcome the entire hi team and their innovative technology into the Riedel family, gaining not only a groundbreaking product but also an incredible wealth of expertise,” said Thomas Riedel, Founder and CEO of the Riedel Group. “hi has become a benchmark for intuitive control in the industry – but it’s even more than that: it is a catalyst for reimagining how broadcasters and production teams interact with their workflows. This proven control solution perfectly complements our portfolio and will give our customers unprecedented freedom to shape and operate their workflows exactly as they envision.”

Riedel and hi have consistently demonstrated the power of their deep integration, with hi working hand in hand with Riedel’s MediorNet media infrastructures and SmartPanels for seamless routing, device control, and workflow management in high-profile deployments such as WDR’s remote production of the UEFA Euro 2024. hi is also fully integrated for Riedel StageLink audio routing and tally control with SimplyLive video production solutions, with further integrations across the Riedel portfolio already in development.

While the intuitive software can be operated via touchscreen – or Riedel SmartPanels – it is complemented by a dedicated range of hardware controllers such as the hiPush panels and the innovative hiDot touchscreen rotary knob. From the 1RU hiPush18 with 18 high-contrast LCD buttons to the 2RU hiPush54 and the compact, PoE-powered hiPush32Desktop, this versatile hardware lineup offers flexible, tactile control options that seamlessly integrate with hi’s growing feature set.

“Riedel has believed in and championed hi since its inception – they were with us from our very first customer project. Since then, we have supported each other both in development and in sales, making it feel natural to continue shaping our future together,” said Tamás Szanto, Product Owner hi, Riedel Communications. “hi will remain an open, manufacturer-independent platform, ensuring customers continue to enjoy the freedom and flexibility they value. What’s changing is the backing of Riedel’s global organization, which means accelerated development, wider availability, and a new level of support for customers worldwide.”