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Category: Business News

  • Nice finalizes a €370 million transaction to support its organic and acquisition-driven growth plan

    Nice finalizes a €370 million transaction to support its organic and acquisition-driven growth plan

    Nice has secured a €370 million financing agreement to support its long-term growth strategy, giving the company additional resources to expand its global operations and invest in future acquisitions. Backed by a group of 11 leading Italian and international financial institutions, the funding also strengthens the company’s financial position as it continues to grow its Smart Living portfolio.

    The investment will help Nice accelerate the development of new technologies while expanding its presence in global markets. With operations spanning more than 100 countries, 13 R&D centers, and 14 manufacturing plants, the company aims to enhance innovation and deliver more advanced smart home and building solutions for the AV and IT industries.

    Nice, a global leader in Smart Living solutions, announces the completion of a €370 million transaction designed to support the Group’s organic and acquisition-driven growth, while also optimizing its financial structure.

    The transaction, structured as a Senior Facilities Agreement, was financed by a pool of 11 leading Italian and international financial institutions, led by BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank and Mediobanca as Global Coordinators. The pool also included BNL BNP Paribas, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti, Crédit Agricole Italia, Deutsche Bank, Intesa Sanpaolo (IMI CIB Division), Monte dei Paschi di Siena and UniCredit, with Banco BPM acting as Agent Bank. Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank also acted as Hedge Coordinator.

    The resources will be used to strengthen the international presence of the Nice Group, with a particular focus on completing future strategic acquisitions and developing new technological solutions. The Group currently has more than 2,000 people worldwide, 29 operating offices, 13 research and development centers, 14 production plants and a commercial presence in more than 100 countries. In recent years, Nice has consolidated its presence in key global markets and significantly expanded its product portfolio. The new financing represents a further step in the company’s development path and will enable it to accelerate the investments planned in its industrial plan.

    “This transaction provides us with the resources needed to support a new phase of growth and strengthen our positioning in international markets,” said Lauro Buoro, Founder and Chairman of Nice. “The confidence shown by the banking system confirms the solidity of our business model and our future prospects.”

    As part of the transaction, Legance and Gianni & Origoni (GOP) acted as legal advisors to the Company and the lending institutions, respectively.

  • SMPTE Makes Its Standards Freely Accessible, Opening Standards Library to the Global Media Technology Community

    SMPTE Makes Its Standards Freely Accessible, Opening Standards Library to the Global Media Technology Community

    SMPTE has announced that its entire Standards catalog is now freely accessible to the global media technology community. The open-access library includes all published SMPTE Standards, Recommended Practices, Engineering Guidelines, Registered Disclosure Documents (RDDs), and future releases. By removing access barriers, SMPTE aims to support greater interoperability, accelerate technology adoption, and encourage innovation across the media, broadcast, and entertainment industries.

    The initiative is part of SMPTE’s broader modernization efforts, which include GitHub-based workflows, HTML-based authoring, and a streamlined publishing process. For AV, IT, broadcast, and media professionals, easier access to trusted standards will help improve collaboration, reduce implementation challenges, and support emerging technologies such as IP-based workflows, AI authenticity, and content provenance.

    SMPTE®, the home of media professionals, technologists and engineers, has announced that its entire Standards catalog is now freely available to the global media technology community. This includes all published SMPTE Standards, Recommended Practices, Engineering Guidelines and Registered Disclosure Documents (RDDs), as well as all future releases. For more than a century, SMPTE Standards have helped enable the interoperability that underpins the entertainment technology industry. By removing barriers to access, this milestone is expected to accelerate adoption and implementation, strengthen interoperability, and help drive the next generation of innovation.

    “This was a decision we did not make lightly,” says SMPTE President Rich Welsh. “For 110 years, SMPTE has evolved alongside the media technology industry, helping to drive change and innovation — and we’re not stopping now.

    “Our industry is confronting transformative shifts, from IP-based workflows to AI authenticity and content provenance, and we find ourselves at another inflection point. We listened to our Members, Partners and the global Standards community, and the answer was clear: Interoperability is essential to the future of media. Now is the time to open the gates and ensure the next generation of media technology is built on a stronger, more accessible foundation.”

    SMPTE’s move to an open-access Standards Library is part of a broader effort to modernize the organization’s Standards development and publication processes. Recent initiatives include adopting GitHub-based workflows for version control, issue tracking and automation; transitioning to structured HTML-based authoring; and implementing an integrated publishing pipeline that streamlines document creation, review, validation and release.

    “We are thrilled to make SMPTE Standards accessible to everyone,” says Raymond Yeung, SMPTE Standards Vice President. “Opening access removes barriers to adoption and implementation while supporting greater transparency throughout the standards-development process. Combined with our modernization efforts, this milestone enables SMPTE to respond more quickly to industry needs while maintaining the quality and rigor our Standards are known for.”

    SMPTE’s move to an open-access Standards Library is supported in part by the organization’s Diamond-level Corporate Members: Amazon AWS, Apple, Blackmagic Design, CBS/Paramount Global, Disney, Dolby, Fox, Google, Ross Video, Sony and Telstra. Additionally, companies and individuals pledging donations of $10,000 or more by Dec. 31, 2026, will be recognized as Inaugural Supporters of the Standards catalogue.

    “Standards achieve their greatest value when they are accessible to everyone who needs to implement them,” concludes SMPTE Standards Director Steve LLamb. “This move strengthens interoperability, reduces misinformation, and supports more consistent implementation across the industry. By opening access, SMPTE helps ensure that developers, integrators, educators, manufacturers, as well as emerging markets, can build from accurate specifications rather than secondhand sources, supporting the long-term health of the media, motion imaging and digital cinema industries.”

  • HARMAN Professional Opens New Experience Center to Elevate Customer Engagement

    HARMAN Professional Opens New Experience Center to Elevate Customer Engagement

    HARMAN Professional Solutions has officially opened its newly revamped Experience Center in Singapore, designed to give customers and partners a more immersive and hands-on way to explore integrated AV and IT solutions. Located at the Golden Agri Building, the new facility goes beyond a traditional showroom by offering real-world demonstrations, collaborative workshops, and executive briefing spaces tailored for industries such as corporate, education, hospitality, and entertainment. The center showcases technologies from JBL, FLUX::, and Martin, helping visitors better understand how connected solutions can solve modern business challenges.

    The Experience Center is built to strengthen collaboration between customers, partners, and HARMAN experts through solution co-creation and live testing environments. Company leaders emphasized that the facility is a long-term investment focused on improving customer engagement, accelerating innovation, and supporting more informed technology decisions. The space will continue to host partner sessions, workshops, and customer briefings throughout the year, reinforcing HARMAN’s commitment to delivering scalable and future-ready AV experiences across the APAC region.

    HARMAN Professional Solutions, the global leader in audio, video, lighting and control systems, today announced the official opening of its newly revamped Experience Center in Singapore. Designed as a purpose‑built business Experience Center, the space demonstrates how HARMAN Professional solutions address customer needs across multiple vertical markets through real‑world applications and collaborative engagement. More than a traditional showroom, the space has been reimagined as a platform for solution exploration, co‑creation, and executive engagement, reflecting the evolving ways B2B organizations navigate technology amid increasing complexity in today’s business environment.

    “As customer needs and decision‑making processes continue to evolve, we saw an oppurtunity to rethink how we engage,” said Nick Screen, VP & GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “Our new experience center immerses customers and partners in real-world scenarios—where they can touch, test, and co-create solutions tailored to their environments. It’s all about empowering more informed decisions with confidence. Bringing together JBL, FLUX:: and Martin in this space lets us showcase fully integrated, immersive experiences that truly demonstrate what our Professional Solutions portfolio can achieve.”

    From Products to Business Outcomes

    The revamped showroom brings together industry specific use cases, hands-on demonstrations and collaborative spaces that reflect how customers evaluate solutions today. Designed to support engagment from early discovery through validation and implementation, the Experience Center enables deeper, more meaningful experiences beyond traditional product displays.

    Visitors can experience:

    • End-to-end solution scenarios across key industries
    • Interactive demonstrations aligned with real business challenges
    • Immersive, experiential showcase of audio and lighting technologies
    • Dedicated spaces for customer workshops and partner co-creation
    • Executive briefing areas for strategic discussions

    “Experience led engagement has become essential in modern B2B environments,” said Atul Ghaisas, Director Channel Sales & Install Solutions, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “The Singapore Experience Center—along with our global network of HARMAN Professional Experience Centers—helps customers move beyond specifications to truly understand value, outcomes, and scalability, while strengthening collaboration across our global ecosystem.”

    Built for Collaboration and Partnership

    The Experience Center also plays a key role in partner engagement, providing a shared platform for joint solution design and integrated demonstrations. By bringing together customers, partners, and subject-matter experts in one space, HARMAN Professional aims to accelerate innovation and deliver more tailored business outcomes.

    The opening ceremony welcomed customers, partners, media, and senior leadership and included guided tours highlighting how the Experience Center supports real-world decision-making and collaboration.

    A Platform for Ongoing Engagement

    Located at 108 Pasir Panjang Road, #02-08 Golden Agri Building Singapore 118535, the HARMAN Experience Center will host customer briefings, partner sessions and industry‑focused workshops throughout the year.

    “This is a long‑term investment, not just a one-time launch” added Nick Screen. “We see this Experience Center as a living environment where ideas are tested, partnerships are strengthened and future‑ready solutions are shaped together with our customers.”

  • Panasonic Projector & Display Acquires HIVE, Strengthening Integrated Visual Solutions for Immersive Environments

    Panasonic Projector & Display Acquires HIVE, Strengthening Integrated Visual Solutions for Immersive Environments

    Panasonic Projector & Display Corporation has acquired UK-based media technology company HIVE Media Control Ltd. to strengthen its position in immersive visual solutions and integrated media workflows. The move expands Panasonic’s capabilities beyond projection and display hardware into media playback, synchronization and control solutions for museums, themed attractions, immersive experiences and large-scale AV installations. HIVE will continue operating independently with its vendor-neutral approach, supporting customers across multiple projector and LED display brands.

    The acquisition supports Panasonic’s broader MEVIX strategy of delivering end-to-end visual ecosystems for the AV industry. By combining HIVE’s BeeBlade SDM-based media server technology with Panasonic’s display and projection portfolio, customers can benefit from simplified installations, reduced hardware requirements and more flexible deployment options. HIVE’s solutions are already used in major immersive projects worldwide, including the BBC Earth Experience and the National Museum of Qatar.

    Panasonic Projector & Display Corporation (“Panasonic”) today announced that it has acquired 100% of the issued shares of UK-based media technology company Hive Media Control Ltd. (“HIVE”), strengthening its capabilities in media playback and control for immersive and fixed-installation environments.

    The acquisition marks a further step in Panasonic’s evolution from a hardware-led manufacturer into a broader visual solutions ecosystem provider, expanding its proposition beyond projection and display into software, workflow and integrated media-delivery solutions.

    At the same time, HIVE will continue to operate as a standalone business with a vendor-neutral market approach. Panasonic will support HIVE’s continued growth while preserving the independence, agility and openness that have shaped its position in the market. This includes continuity for HIVE’s existing customers and partners, including those using HIVE alongside projector and LED display brands beyond Panasonic.

    Media servers play a central role in immersive environments and large-scale visual installations, helping manage playback, synchronization and control of content across multiple displays and surfaces. With HIVE, Panasonic broadens its ability to support customers not only at the display endpoint, but across a wider part of the workflow from content playback and control through to deployment and operation.

    HIVE’s flagship BeeBlade platform is based on the Intel® Smart Display Module (SDM) standard, enabling direct integration with projectors, direct-view LED display systems and professional displays.

    “This is a strategically important step for Panasonic as we continue to evolve our business beyond a hardware-oriented model toward broader visual solutions and workflow value,” said Yousuke Adachi, CEO of Panasonic Projector & Display Corporation. “Under MEVIX, our visual solutions brand, we have been clearly articulating our commitment to contribute to customers across the total workflow, not just at the hardware endpoint. This acquisition is a major step in that direction and an important step forward in growth guided by the spirit of the MEVIX brand. HIVE brings proven expertise in media playback and control, and when combined with our projector and display portfolio, we believe it can create meaningful customer value through simpler deployment, greater flexibility and a better end-user experience. At the same time, we fully respect HIVE’s position as a standalone business open to working with the wider market, and we look forward to the synergies from HIVE’s continued growth also creating value for Panasonic.”

    “We are inspired and honoured by the opportunity to work with Panasonic, while continuing to grow HIVE as an open and independent ecosystem,” said Mark Calvert, Co-Founder and CEO of Hive Media Control Ltd. “In nature, the most powerful systems are interconnected, adaptive and free to evolve – a philosophy that sits at the heart of HIVE. This partnership gives us the scale to accelerate our vision while preserving the openness and platform-agnostic approach our customers rely on. I would also like to thank my co-founders, Dave Green and Trey Harrison, and our incredible HIVE team – whose belief and dedication mean we move into this next chapter together.”

    Panasonic views the media server market as a growth area, supported by increasing demand for immersive attractions, museums, themed environments and other permanent visual installations. Within this space, HIVE has built a strong position by offering a more compact, scalable and future-ready approach, underpinned by its SDM-native architecture and open ecosystem design.

    For customers, the combination of HIVE’s media control architecture and Panasonic’s projection and display technologies is expected to create value through greater deployment flexibility, a smaller infrastructure footprint, fewer external devices, simplified cabling and more streamlined installation and operation. It also supports a better overall end-user experience where HIVE and Panasonic solutions are used together.

    HIVE’s media servers are already deployed across major global projects including the BBC Earth Experience, the National Museum of Qatar and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel exhibition, demonstrating its capability across immersive attractions, cultural institutions and large-scale visual environments. HIVE’s innovation has been recognised through multiple high-profile international industry awards for its BeeBlade platform and broader media control ecosystem.

  • Vizrt graphics chosen as the Official Technical Supplier of Eurovision 2026

    Vizrt graphics chosen as the Official Technical Supplier of Eurovision 2026

    Vizrt has been selected as the Official Technical Supplier for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, supporting host broadcaster ORF in delivering one of the world’s biggest live television events. The competition, which will be broadcast live from Vienna, will use Vizrt’s advanced graphics and virtual production technologies to create immersive viewer experiences with real-time 3D graphics, augmented reality visuals, and dynamic score displays.

    Using solutions such as Viz Engine and Viz Virtual Studio, ORF will manage the large-scale live production workflow with greater flexibility, speed, and reliability. The partnership highlights Vizrt’s strength in powering major global broadcasts and helping production teams create engaging visual storytelling for millions of viewers worldwide.

    Vizrt, the AI platform for visual storytelling, today announced that it has been named an Official Technical Supplier of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, in partnership with host broadcaster ORF, supporting one of the world’s most complex and widely-watched live television productions.

    Broadcast live from Vienna to millions of fans across Europe and beyond, the 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will rely on Vizrt technology to create immersive visual elements that elevate the audience experience, bringing them closer to the Eurovision stage.

    ORF is using a range of Vizrt solutions, including versatile real-time 3D graphics rendering and compositing with Viz Engine, and virtual environments and augmented reality (AR) graphics with Viz Virtual Studio.In addition to the hyper-realistic AR graphics, Viz Engine will be rending all on screen graphics and the data-driven graphics that display each country’s scores throughout the competition.

    As host broadcaster, ORF is responsible for delivering the Eurovision Song Contest at unprecedented scale, coordinating live broadcasts, complex graphics, and live production across multiple shows and days. Vizrt’s technology enables production teams to deliver compelling visual storytelling while maintaining the speed, reliability, and flexibility required for live, large‑scale events.

    “The hosting of the Eurovision Song Contest in its 70th edition presents the ORF as the host broadcaster, with an extraordinary technical dimension – both in terms of scale and redundancy and creative ambition,” says Claudio Bortoli, Technical Supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. “With Vizrt, we are relying on a partner that allows us to operate highly complex live workflows stably while simultaneously setting new visual standards. Especially under the enormous time pressure and international visibility, it is crucial to employ technologies that combine precision, flexibility, and absolute reliability.”

    “Eurovision represents the pinnacle of live production. It’s high-octane, high-energy and high stakes; everything that Vizrt technology is trusted for,” says Chris Black, Chief Marketing Officer, Vizrt. “We’re delighted to be providing technology that enables the boldest creative expression, as well as the dependability needed for broadcasts of this magnitude.”

    Vizrt solutions are trusted by over 6,600 broadcasters, media organizations and enterprises worldwide to deliver real‑time graphics and overlays, virtual sets and augmented reality, live production automation, and streamlined media workflows across news, sports, entertainment, and major live events.

  • PPDS partners with leading Italian AV distributor Prase as ‘showstopping’ new 135” foldable Philips Unite LED 6000 AIO Series welcomed in Italy

    PPDS partners with leading Italian AV distributor Prase as ‘showstopping’ new 135” foldable Philips Unite LED 6000 AIO Series welcomed in Italy

    PPDS has announced a new strategic partnership with Prase, one of Italy’s leading AV distributors and part of the Midwich Group. The collaboration will expand access to Philips Professional Displays across Italy, giving partners and customers a wider choice of digital signage, dvLED, interactive displays, and professional TV solutions for corporate, education, and retail projects. Both companies say the partnership is built around shared values, innovation, customer support, and sustainable AV solutions.

    The partnership also marked the Italian launch of the new 135-inch Philips Unite LED 6000 Series All In One display at MIR 2026. Designed for classrooms, auditoriums, and corporate spaces, the foldable and height-adjustable dvLED display combines COB technology, a 1.5mm pixel pitch, and a motorized trolley for easy mobility and flexible installation. First showcased at ISE 2026, the display attracted strong attention for its impressive visuals, foldable design, and user-friendly setup, making it a standout solution for modern AV environments.

    PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips Professional Displays, is pleased to confirm a new strategic partnership with leading Italian AV distributor, Prase – a Midwich Group company.

    Reinforcing PPDS’ unparalleled commitment to delivering near universal access to its portfolio of multi award winning solutions, together with best in class support and service, the strategic partnership with Prase will bring extended choice, value, and opportunities – including around sustainability and energy savings – for businesses in Italy.

    Founded in 1993, and a Midwich Group Company since 2019, Noventa di Piave (Venice) based Prase has an unrivalled reputation in the Italian market, distributing an extensive range of AV and IT solutions with corporate, education, and retail among its core target verticals.

    Total solutions for the Italian market

    Effective immediately, Prase’s partner network will have access to PPDS’ portfolio of Philips Professional Displays and ‘total solutions’, providing a one stop shop on visual hardware and software needs for AV projects, including dvLED, digital signage, interactive, professional TV, and more.

    Mario Baratto, Vendor Account Manager at Prase, commented: “The Philips entry in the Prase catalogue leads us to strengthen and strategically evolve our offerings concerning the LED and displays sector. The core of this partnership is a synergy of values that make Philips Professional Displays one of the solid and long standing

    players in the video area, and Prase, the value added distributor, an outstanding benchmark in the Italian market, renowned for its great efficiency and customer support”.

    Andrea Castelnuovo, Sales Director Italy, Greece, Malta and Cyprus at PPDS, added: “We are delighted to have partnered with Prase, a distributor that is aligned with our values on how to do business, together with our ambitions to grow as a company. PPDS has made significant imprints in the Italian market, supporting projects across verticals, with an ever-evolving range of highly flexible and sustainable solutions, each tailored around the precise needs of the customer. Working with Prase we can continue to bring new innovations to businesses on an even grander scale.”

    New All In One opportunity

    Kicking off their collaboration in style, PPDS recently joined Prase at MIR 2026 – Italy’s largest AV event – which included the official launch and availability of the company’s award winning, foldable and height-adjustable 135” Philips Unite LED 6000 Series AIO.

    Showcased and met with great fanfare at ISE 2026, the impossible to ignore Philips Unite LED 6000 Series delivers a true masterclass in visual performance and mechanical engineering, by innovatively combining crystal clear visuals with next level flexibility, mobility, accessibility, and energy efficiency.

    Ideal for a wide range of environments, including classrooms, auditoriums, and corporate settings, the Philips Unite LED 6000 Series AIO amalgamates cutting edge Chip on Board (COB) technology with a fine 1.5mm pixel pitch for ultra reliable, ultra sharp visuals, from spectacular video to intricate meeting room presentations.

    To accommodate all possibilities and room types – including areas with sloping ceilings or with rising seating, such as in a lecture theatre or auditorium – the Unite LED 6000 Series AIO also features a motorised trolley enabling smooth and safe electric lifting. Presenters can simply, safely, and smoothly adjust the display height with just the push of a button, ensuring perfect viewing in any setting.

    The smart, foldable structure removes all obstacles around mobility, whether being installed for the first time or as it is transferred between rooms, by easily fitting through any standard sized doors or in elevators. More details on the Philips Unite LED 6000 Series All In One can be found here.

    Standing out

    Andrea added: “We are thrilled to have officially launched the Philips Unite LED 6000 Series AIO into the Italian market at MIR 26, and to confirm its availability to our partners and customers.

    “This captivating product was recently demonstrated at ISE 2026 in Barcelona, and with the combination of its state of the art screen and unique and impressive foldable design, it literally stopped people in their tracks. It is truly deserving of being described as a showstopper.”

  • Nanolumens Partners With 3Dot Technologies to Expand Presence in Canada

    Nanolumens Partners With 3Dot Technologies to Expand Presence in Canada

    Nanolumens has partnered with Canadian distributor 3Dot Technologies to strengthen its presence across Canada and make its LED display and video wall solutions more accessible to customers in multiple industries. Through the agreement, 3Dot Technologies will provide local sales support, system design, installation, integration and maintenance services for Nanolumens’ direct view LED and video processing solutions.

    The partnership aims to support growing demand for reliable and high-performance AV display systems in sectors including corporate, government, healthcare, higher education, retail and transportation. With 3Dot Technologies’ regional expertise and Nanolumens’ advanced LED solutions designed for 24/7 operation, the collaboration will help Canadian customers deploy flexible and scalable visual technology for mission-critical environments.

    Nanolumens, an industry-leading manufacturer and designer of cutting-edge LED displays and video wall solutions, has formed a partnership with 3Dot Technologies Inc., a Burlington, Ontario-based distributor specializing in video wall systems. The partnership expands Nanolumens’ presence in Canada and enables broader access to its full portfolio of display solutions across all vertical markets.

    Through the distribution partnership, 3Dot Technologies will provide regional sales support, system design consultation, installation and integration services for Nanolumens direct view LED and video processing solutions. 3Dot Technologies brings experience in designing and deploying customized video wall systems across a wide range of industries, including government, corporate, retail, healthcare, higher education, transportation, entertainment and more. The company supports projects through demonstration, consultation, system configuration, installation and ongoing maintenance.

    Nanolumens portfolio of LED displays includes several series designed for high-detail viewing and continuous operation in mission-critical settings, supporting 24/7 use with fully redundant systems and reduced heat output compared with legacy technologies. The displays are compatible with popular and Nanolumens’ proprietary video processing platforms to provide accurate color reproduction, and eye guard technology to support prolonged viewing.

    “3Dot Technologies has a strong understanding of Canadian audiovisual requirements and a consultative approach that aligns with how we deliver display solutions,” said Kurt DeYoung, chief revenue officer for Nanolumens. “This partnership expands our ability to support government, corporate, retail, healthcare, higher education and other customers in Canada with the localized expertise and service they need.”

    “Our customers require systems that are reliable, configurable and supported over time,” said John Hallman, partner at 3Dot Technologies. “Working with Nanolumens allows us to provide top-tier LED solutions designed for continuous operation while maintaining flexibility in system design and integration.”

    Nanolumen’s collaboration with 3Dot Technologies reflects continued investment in regional partnerships to support customers operating in critical environments across North America. Nanolumens, founded in 2006 and based in the Atlanta area, designs, assembles and supports its LED displays in the United States.

  • Riedel to Support Glasgow 2026 as Official Connectivity Integration Provider

    Riedel to Support Glasgow 2026 as Official Connectivity Integration Provider

    Riedel Communications has been named the Official Connectivity Integration Provider for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, where it will deliver a complete communications and network infrastructure across all venues and operational sites. As part of its Managed Technology offering, Riedel will handle the full lifecycle of the project, including design, installation, integration, and live operations support. The company will also serve as an Official Partner for Team Scotland during the Games, which will take place from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow.

    A major highlight of the deployment is the introduction of the Glasgow 2026 Games Integrated Network (GIN), powered by Riedel’s DIVA+ platform. The IP-based system combines fiber infrastructure, wireless connectivity, intercom, radio communications, and data transfer into a single unified network. Designed with sustainability and flexibility in mind, the solution will support live broadcast distribution, venue operations, reliable Wi-Fi, and real-time network management, helping organizers deliver a connected and efficient Commonwealth Games experience.

    Riedel Communications today announced its return as a sponsor of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, where the company will serve as the Official Connectivity Integration Provider and will be an Official Partner for Team Scotland. Riedel will deliver the complete end-to-end design, installation, and integration of a comprehensive connectivity and communications ecosystem that will ensure the entire Games infrastructure is connected when the event returns to Glasgow from July 23 – August 2. As part of Riedel’s Managed Technology offering, the deployment provides a fully managed turnkey solution covering planning, implementation, and live operations.

    Glasgow 2026 marks a new chapter for the Commonwealth Games, prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity. As the Official Connectivity Integration Provider, Riedel will supply communication solutions to ensure reliable data transfer, seamless communication, and spectator safety, aiming to reduce the event’s environmental impact by utilizing its cutting-edge technology.

    For the first time at the Games, Riedel will implement its fully integrated data system, known as the Glasgow 2026 Games Integrated Network (GIN). GIN is powered by Riedel’s DIVA+ solution, the company’s holistic media backbone designed to scale from smaller deployments to the most complex live events. DIVA+ unifies fiber-based infrastructure, wireless Easy5G extensions, and centralized orchestration into a single IP-based network supporting communications, audio-visual signals, and data transfer, simplifying complexity from planning through live operations. It meets all operational requirements, can be remotely controlled and adapted in real time, offers increased flexibility, and includes smart cable management that reduces the environmental impact across the event.

    As part of this approach, Riedel will provide a fully integrated communications solution across all competition venues and operational sites, combining intercom and radio communications into one unified system. This system is part of the Games’ integrated communications strategy, seamlessly working with all partners to prioritize safety and operational efficiency.

    Riedel will link the venues via its Wide Area Network (WAN), ensuring reliable transmission of live broadcast images from the venues to the Broadcast Operations Center, where Broadcast Rights Holders will access them for global distribution. Within the venues, Riedel’s Local Area Networks (Venue LANs) will deliver connectivity for all operational requirements, including reliable Wi-Fi.

    As industry leaders, Riedel offers extensive global sporting experience and expertise with the Commonwealth Games, having provided radio communications networks for Birmingham 2022 and Glasgow 2014, as well as managing the venue intercom project for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

    “It’s a real honor to support Glasgow 2026 and contribute to an event of this magnitude that brings people and communities together through sport”, said Jan Sander, Senior Account Manager Multisport Events, Riedel Communications. “As the Official Connectivity Integration Provider, we take the same approach to technology — bringing together networks, services, and workflows through our Managed Technology approach and DIVA+ for seamless and reliable operations across the Games.”

    Martin Fitchie, Chief Information Officer, Glasgow 2026, added: “We are excited to announce Riedel Communications as our Official Connectivity Integration Provider. Renowned for its global reputation, technical expertise, and collaborative approach, Riedel is a valuable addition to our Technology program. Having a sponsor that offers cutting-edge solutions and is committed to mutual success is vital for implementing the systems essential to the Games. We look forward to delivering a connected Games with Riedel Communications.”

  • Leader prepares advanced T&M showcase for MPTS 2026

    Leader prepares advanced T&M showcase for MPTS 2026

    Leader Electronics of Europe will showcase its latest test and measurement technologies at Media Production & Technology Show 2026 in London, highlighting solutions designed for modern SDI, IP, and hybrid broadcast workflows. The company will feature advanced products from the Leader, PHABRIX, and LeaderPhabrix ranges, including the new LPX500 waveform monitor with 100G-IP and 12G-SDI support, alongside synchronization and monitoring tools built for accurate and reliable media operations.

    The showcase will also include the LT4670 Sync Pulse Generator, ZEN-W Series analyzers, LV5350 waveform monitor, and portable PHABRIX monitoring solutions. Leader says its focus remains on helping broadcasters and media organizations smoothly transition to IP-based production environments while maintaining compatibility with existing SDI infrastructures. The company aims to demonstrate flexible and dependable T&M solutions for every stage of the industry’s connectivity journey.

    Test & measurement innovator Leader Electronics of Europe will present an extensive range of Leader, PHABRIX and LeaderPhabrix test and measurement solutions at the Media Production & Technology Show (MPTS), which takes place at The Grand Hall, Olympia, London on 13 & 14 May (Stand #K40). By highlighting the latest and greatest of its acclaimed T&M products, Leader will underline its ability to guarantee that users can always test with clarity, measure with accuracy, and monitor with confidence.

    Assuming a priority position on the Leader stand will be the LPX500 multi-input waveform monitor with 100G-IP and 12G-SDI toolsets, presented at MPTS with optional extended 8-inch touchscreen. The first in a new family of video analysis and generation instruments marketed under the ‘LeaderPhabrix’ brand, the LPX500’s feature set is entirely aligned with today’s varied workflows and includes: simultaneous display of four 4K inputs, 4K and 2K inputs, HDR and SDR inputs, or SDI and IP inputs; multiple screen layouts; and advanced SDI Physical Layer Analysis (Eye and Jitter) option with support for SD/HD/3G/6G/12G-SDI.

    Also on show will be Leader’s LT4670 Sync Pulse Generator (SPG) and LT4448 Changeover. The LT4670 is designed to deliver pinpoint synchronization across both SDI and IP environments, offering true-hybrid compatibility with Black Burst, Tri-level Sync, and PTP signals. The LT4670 features six independent analog sync outputs, along with digital audio, word clock, LTC input/output, and L-SYNC as standard, while optional licenses enable flexible configurations including GNSS sync, PTP, 4K IP, HD IP, 4K 12G-SDI, 4K Quad, 3G-SDI, HD-SDI, and SD-SDI outputs in any pattern. Acting as a PTP grandmaster with independent leader and follower functions, the LT4670 also includes Stay-In-Sync and Slow-Sync capabilities for exceptionally stable IP synchronization.

    With automatic fail-over across Blackburst, Tri-level Sync, AES, and PTP references, the LT4670 ensures uninterrupted time distribution and consistent network stability. Built for continuous operation, it includes a hot-swappable redundant power supply and hot-swappable fan assembly, and supports GPS antenna connectivity for GNSS-based signal generation, providing an extremely accurate timing source locked to precise frequency and time references.

    Supporting the ability to operate in IP, SDI and hybrid environments remains a core objective of Leader, and accordingly the company will be showcasing its ZEN-W Series of advanced analyzers, which have been developed to manage the diverse demands of today’s broadcast media T&M environments. Now incorporating JPEG XS technology due to a collaboration with intoPIX, which delivers advanced monitoring capabilities for SMPTE ST 2110-22 compressed IP streams, as well as the Real-Time Communication (WebRTC) interface for secure remote control and monitoring, the ZEN-W Series features two products: the LV5600W waveform monitor, which is a 3U high half-rack-width unit with an integral 7-inch touchscreen; and the LV7600W rasterizer, occupying a compact 1U and providing SDI plus TMDS monitor outputs.

    MPTS visitors will also have the opportunity to interact with a number of Leader’s other key products, including the LV5350 waveform monitor. Supporting SDI signals from SD through 12G rates, the LV5350 is a 3U half-rack, short-depth waveform monitor with a built-in 7-inch touchscreen display and a full array of buttons and control knobs. From the PHABRIX range, the QxL – the brand’s most compact, feature-rich 25G IP ST 2110 rasterizer – and QxP portable waveform monitor, providing 12G SDI and ST 2110 compliance monitoring, will also be on display.

    Leader will also present products from the popular PHABRIX Sx series of handhelds, which includes the SxE portable 3G/HD/SD generation, analysis and monitoring toolset with advanced physical layer analysis and the Sx TAG, which provides hybrid IP/SDI + analog generation, analysis and video/audio monitoring.

    Mike Mizusawa, VP of Sales at Leader Electronics of Europe, comments, “As the trade events that have already taken place this year have confirmed, broadcast and media organizations are continuing to implement IP workflows – often as part of hybrid installations that still include some SDI elements. Leader is acutely aware that different organizations are at different stages of their connectivity journeys, and accordingly it is focused on delivering robust and versatile T&M solutions capable of supporting every workflow variation. We look forward to presenting a comprehensive range of our products to attendees at this year’s MPTS.”

  • Thomas Riedel Acquires Premium Manufacturer ARRI

    Thomas Riedel Acquires Premium Manufacturer ARRI

    Thomas Riedel, founder of the Riedel Group, has acquired ARRI, the well-known German manufacturer of professional camera and lighting technology, in the biggest deal of his career so far. This move brings together ARRI’s century-long legacy in film technology with Riedel’s strength in live production, broadcast, and event communications, creating a stronger combined presence across the full media production workflow.

    The partnership is expected to open new opportunities in live entertainment, sports, and broadcast production by combining ARRI’s camera and lighting expertise with Riedel’s audio, video, and data infrastructure solutions. ARRI will continue operating independently from Munich under its current leadership, while both companies begin collaboration with their first major joint showcase at the Eurovision Song Contest.

    Thomas Riedel, founder and owner of Riedel Communications and the Riedel Group, has acquired ARRI, the Munich-based premium manufacturer of camera and lighting technology for motion picture and live entertainment. The entrepreneur from Wuppertal was chosen in a competitive international process with his concept for a new home for ARRI, marking the largest acquisition of his career to date.

    The Riedel Group is a globally recognized specialist in advanced audio, video, and data technology, delivering infrastructure solutions for many of the world’s most demanding broadcast, live event, and sports productions. Through the acquisition of ARRI, Thomas Riedel establishes a close strategic alignment between ARRI and the Riedel Group, expanding its expertise across the entire production chain — from camera optics to distribution. ARRI’s ecosystem of camera, lighting, and systems technology perfectly complements the Riedel Group’s existing portfolio and opens up new technological and strategic market opportunities for both companies.

    Founded in 1917, ARRI has been family-owned ever since and is regarded as a global leader in professional film technology, having been recognized with 20 scientific and technical awards from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. “For more than a century, ARRI has stood for engineering excellence, innovation, and the highest quality. This success story will now continue and remain in German ownership,” said Dr. Walter Stahl, Managing Director of ARRI GmbH and member of the founding family.

    Through close collaboration, ARRI and Riedel aim to unlock new areas of growth, especially in live entertainment and sports. By combining their respective technologies, the companies plan to develop integrated solutions that open new creative and technical possibilities for customers. As the first joint milestone of this collaboration, ARRI will debut its camera technology at the Eurovision Song Contest, where Riedel serves as the technology provider and NEP oversees production.

    Under the new ownership of Thomas Riedel, ARRI’s existing management team will continue to lead the company and further advance its ongoing transformation. The company will retain independent operations and remain headquartered in Munich.

    “Thomas Riedel has built a first-generation family business and stands for entrepreneurial continuity and long-term thinking,” said Chris Richter, Managing Director of ARRI. “We look forward to working with a successful entrepreneur and to the resulting market opportunities and access — both in existing and new markets.”

    “The Riedel Group brings highly complementary technologies and extensive expertise in live production to this partnership,” added David Bermbach, Managing Director of ARRI. “This strengthens our strategic direction as a ‘Trusted Technology Leader for the Next Generation of Media & Entertainment.’”

    “My entrepreneurial path has been closely tied to ARRI for years,” said Thomas Riedel. “This acquisition represents the most significant personal milestone of my career so far. I have great respect for this exceptional brand, its outstanding products, and its strong team. At the same time, I see tremendous potential and am confident that, together, we can position ARRI for long-term stability and future success.”