AVNation TV

Category: World

  • Cobalt Digital to Unveil Additions to End-to-End IPMX and ST 2110 Ecosystem at NAB, Including Fully Featured Standalone Signal Processors

    Cobalt Digital to Unveil Additions to End-to-End IPMX and ST 2110 Ecosystem at NAB, Including Fully Featured Standalone Signal Processors

    Cobalt Digital has announced a strong lineup for NAB 2026, expanding its end-to-end IPMX and ST 2110 ecosystem with new standalone signal processors, audio monitoring tools, multiviewers, gateways, and converters. The highlight is the debut of COBALT® blueCORE, a new family of 1RU standalone processors designed to deliver flexible, high-performance signal processing for evolving broadcast and AV workflows.

    The company is also enhancing its PACIFIC compression platform with IPMX/ST 2110 output, satellite and internet hybrid support, and new demodulator options. Alongside this, Cobalt is introducing cost-effective openGear® cards with scalable licensing, while continuing to strengthen its portfolio of IP-based solutions that bridge traditional SDI systems with modern IP infrastructures.

    Cobalt Digital, the leading designer and manufacturer of award-winning signal processing products, and a founding partner in the openGear® initiative has announced its NAB 2026 lineup which includes numerous additions to its end-to-end IPMX and ST 2110 ecosystem. From new standalone processors to IPMX-native audio monitoring, multiviewers, gateways, and mini converters, Cobalt is building the bridges that support SDI and IP with unmatched flexibility.

    Coming to NAB – COBALT® blueCORE Multi-Function Standalone Signal Processing in 1RU
    Making its debut at NAB, COBALT® blueCORE is a family of 1RU fully featured standalone signal processors. Stay tuned for more details to be released before showtime, but put blueCORE on your NAB radar. You’ll want to see the endless possibilities blueCORE will offer for yourself.

    COBALT® PACIFIC Adds ST 2110/IPMX Output and Demodulator Options, Satellite/Internet Support
    The COBALT® PACIFIC compression line will be presented with an ST 2110/IPMX output option for the COBALT® PACIFIC ULL-DEC upgradeable software defined broadcast decoder. The enhancement allows decoded content to be available simultaneously over SDI and over ST 2110/IPMX. For ST 2110 operation, a built-in frame sync will emit a PTP-locked signal. Cobalt is also introducing a DVB-S/S2 factory-installed demodulator option that allows decoding and pass-through of satellite signals, on ASI and over IP.

    Additionally, as FCC regulations require the remainder of C-Band spectrum to be auctioned, Cobalt has responded by adding support for hybrid Satellite-Internet operation to the COBALT® PACIFIC compression line, compliant with VSR TR-06-4 Part 7. In this mode, satellite is used for bulk distribution, and the Internet is used to recover any lost packets, allowing the use of Ku and Ka bands for distribution.

    New Cost-Effective Fixed-Function openGear® Cards for Reinforced Growth

    Cobalt is also introducing fixed-function openGear® cards designed as cost-effective entry points with license-based expansion for scalability as workflows evolve.

    The new 9925-FSx Frame Sync openGear® card is an entry level one path frame sync card that supports license upgrades up to four paths per card, and an audio processing license upgrade for AES, MADI, and DANTE 64 support.

    The new 9981-LUTx Color Processor openGear® card is an entry level color processing card that supports license upgrades up to four paths per card along with options including: SCALER, BBC LUT, COLOR, 4K, LOGO and ANC.

    Cobalt is also highlighting its portfolio of products that support end-to-end IPMX and ST 2110 workflows

    COBALT® ARIA AUD-MON – The Industry’s only IPMX-Compliant Audio Monitor

    The COBALT® ARIA AUD-MON is the only fully IPMX-compliant audio monitor on the market. Built for any environment migrating toward IP-based operations, AUD-MON features best-in-class sound monitoring and 16 SDI or 64 MADI metering from a compact rack-mount form-factor. Sound is produced by an efficient Class-D amplifier with DSP and specially selected speaker components. The easy-to-use and customizable touch display front panel is designed for simple and intuitive operation with eight individual volume controls for mixing. Control can also be achieved through a web interface.

    Cobalt will also highlight the 9935-AUD4-DANTE, a quad-channel with up to 12G DANTE/AES/MADI/embed and de-embed functions with frame sync capabilities. The card features two gigabit Ethernet ports, a 64×64 configuration, and a full audio router mixer.

    COBALT® UltraBlue MV-SW Multiviewer – Best of both, ST 2110 and IPMX
    The COBALT® UltraBlue MV-SW multiviewers are available as both a turnkey solution with four HDMI heads, or as a software package that runs on customer-supplied dedicated hardware. COBALT® UltraBlue can receive compressed and baseband audio/video content over IP across a variety of protocols and formats with very flexible audio routing, bringing a multitude of options to suit every application, and now feature IPMX support for transitioning to either ST 2110 or IPMX workflows. The multiviewer also supports SDI inputs and outputs.

    COBALT® SAPPHIRE ST 2110 Mini Converters – Space-saving IPMX capable converters
    Multiple models in the COBALT® SAPPHIRE mini converter family of IPMX-capable standalone mini-converters will also be featured. Available in a variety of configurations including single, dual, and quad channel, with some models capable of simultaneously transmitting and receiving, these SAPPHIRE units convert between IPMX compatible (and SMPTE ST 2110 compatible) signals and SDI/HDMI, with support for baseband video and JPEG-XS.

    COBALT® INDIGO – Gateways for Hybrid IP Infrastructures
    The COBALT® INDIGO gateway solutions provide a powerful on and off ramp between IP and SDI with support for IPMX as well as ST 2110. These versatile, high-performance solutions bridge the gap between traditional SDI workflows and modern IP-based infrastructures by simplifying interop, routing, and format translations while preserving image quality and latency performance—critical for transitioning to IP.

  • Matrox Video Enables the Next Era of Software-Defined Media Production at NAB 2026

    Matrox Video Enables the Next Era of Software-Defined Media Production at NAB 2026

    Matrox Video is set to demonstrate its vision for software-defined media production at NAB 2026, showcasing how broadcasters can transition to more flexible, IP-based infrastructures. At the core is Matrox ORIGIN, an asynchronous media framework designed to run on standard IT environments, replacing traditional hardware-heavy systems with scalable, distributed media services. This approach aligns with the EBU’s Dynamic Media Facility vision, enabling efficient, low-latency workflows and seamless collaboration across vendors.

    Alongside ORIGIN, Matrox will highlight its IP-based product lineup, including Monarch EDGE, ConvertIP, Vion, and Avio 2, which support end-to-end live production workflows from capture to delivery. As the company marks 50 years of innovation, it continues to focus on open standards like ST 2110, IPMX, and NMOS, helping media organizations modernize their production environments while maintaining reliability and performance.

    Matrox Video will showcase its vision for the future of live production at NAB 2026 in Las Vegas, April 19-22, highlighting how broadcasters and media organizations can evolve toward modern, software-defined infrastructures designed to enhance operational flexibility and efficiency. At booth N2451, the company will present its portfolio of devices powering end-to-end broadcast workflows, linking today’s open standards-based IP infrastructures with the software-defined production models shaping the future.

    At the center of Matrox Video’s NAB presence is Matrox ORIGIN, an asynchronous media framework and deployment-ready foundation for the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) Dynamic Media Facility (DMF) vision. Running on standard IT infrastructure—on-premises or in the cloud—Matrox ORIGIN replaces bespoke hardware interconnected by clocked, synchronous protocols such as ST 2110 or SDI with distributed media services operating in COTS environments. At its core, Matrox ORIGIN Fabric provides an MXL-compatible, uncompressed media exchange layer that enables secure, application-level content sharing across vendors.

    By decoupling media processing from dedicated hardware and combining high-performance transport with integrated control, Matrox ORIGIN enables low-latency, resilient, and highly scalable workflows, empowering customers to operationalize the DMF model today, far beyond transport alone.

    “The broadcast industry is moving toward software-defined and IP-based production models,” said Alberto Cieri, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Matrox Video. “With Matrox ORIGIN and our comprehensive IP portfolio, we enable customers to achieve greater flexibility and operational efficiency while maintaining the performance and reliability expected in live broadcast environments.”

    Complementing Matrox ORIGIN at NAB is Matrox Video’s IP-based production tools that support live production workflows from capture through delivery. This includes Matrox Monarch EDGE for secure, low-latency encoding and decoding for remote production and distribution workflows; Matrox ConvertIP, enabling zero-latency bridging between SDI and ST 2110/IPMX workflows; and Matrox Vion, a multi-channel 4K IP gateway for encoding, decoding, transcoding, and cross-conversion across live and cloud production environment; and Matrox Avio 2, an ST 2110/IPMX and NMOS-enabled IP KVM extender supporting high-resolution extension over standard networks. Together, these devices provide practical, scalable pathways to IP within existing infrastructures.

    The portfolio is further complemented by Matrox Video’s broadcast developer solutions, including SMPTE ST 2110 network interface cards, SDI input/output video cards, and high-density H.264 encoders and decoders.

    As Matrox Video marks 50 years of innovation, the company reinforces its position as a trusted supplier of open, interoperable IP production technologies. With devices supporting IPMX, SMPTE ST 2110, and NMOS, Matrox Video enables seamless integration within multi-vendor environments while upholding its legacy of reliability and engineering excellence. Visit booth N2451 at NAB 2026 to see how Matrox Video devices can support your next-generation production infrastructure.

  • Microsoft’s Ilya Bukshteyn to Keynote InfoComm 2026, Exploring the Future of AI-Powered Collaboration and Connected Workplaces

    Microsoft’s Ilya Bukshteyn to Keynote InfoComm 2026, Exploring the Future of AI-Powered Collaboration and Connected Workplaces

    Microsoft’s Ilya Bukshteyn, Corporate Vice President for Teams Calling, Devices, and Premium Experiences, will deliver a keynote at InfoComm 2026, highlighting how AI is transforming communication and collaboration. His session will focus on the evolution of intelligent, AI-powered workplaces and the growing role of tools like Teams Phone, Teams Rooms, and Teams Premium in connecting physical and digital environments.

    The keynote will also explore the rise of “agentic” AI systems that act as collaborative co-workers, helping organizations improve productivity and user experience. As InfoComm 2026 emphasizes innovation across AV, IT, and collaboration ecosystems, Bukshteyn’s insights will provide a forward-looking perspective on how AI is shaping the future of connected workplaces.

    At InfoComm 2026, the world’s most essential destination for AV, IT, broadcast, and AI-driven systems, Ilya Bukshteyn, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Teams Calling, Devices, and Premium Experiences, will deliver a keynote address Wednesday, June 17 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. InfoComm 2026 takes place June 13–19, with exhibits June 17–19.

    At Microsoft, Bukshteyn oversees a portfolio that includes Teams Phone, Teams Rooms, Teams Events, and Teams Premium – solutions shaping how organizations communicate, collaborate, and connect across physical and digital spaces. At InfoComm 2026, he will present a vision for the future of AI-powered communication and collaboration and how intelligent systems are influencing the workplace experience.

    “InfoComm is where the industry comes together to see what’s next, and how integrated systems perform in real environments,” said Jenn Heinold, Senior Vice President, Expositions, Americas, AVIXA, producer of InfoComm. “As AI continues to reshape how we work and connect, we’re excited to welcome Ilya to InfoComm 2026 to share insights from the forefront of collaboration innovation.”

    “AI is creating a new era of intelligent workplaces for organizations of all kinds. The next evolution of AI is here: agentic co-workers designed to help people multiply their impact. At InfoComm, I’m excited to share how AI-powered experiences in Microsoft Teams add new value to physical workspaces and elevate the way people connect and communicate every day,” said Bukshteyn.

    InfoComm 2026 brings together the technologies and people reshaping how we work, play, learn, communicate, and experience the world. The show will feature a refreshed Work/Play show floor experience, with immersive activation hubs, expanded learning opportunities, and the latest innovations across conferencing and collaboration, enterprise IT, broadcast workflows, and live events – along with a growing focus on how AI is being applied across AV systems, collaboration, and production.

  • InfoComm 2026 Will Spotlight the Future of Conferencing and Collaboration – Featuring AI-Powered Meeting Experiences, Enterprise Deployment at Scale, and Cross-Platform Interoperability

    InfoComm 2026 Will Spotlight the Future of Conferencing and Collaboration – Featuring AI-Powered Meeting Experiences, Enterprise Deployment at Scale, and Cross-Platform Interoperability

    InfoComm 2026 will highlight how conferencing and collaboration technologies are rapidly evolving with AI at the core. Taking place June 13–19 in Las Vegas, the event will bring together major industry players like Microsoft, Google, Cisco, Logitech, and Zoom to showcase intelligent meeting experiences, improved interoperability, and smarter workplace designs. The focus is shifting from basic connectivity to creating inclusive, automated, and data-driven collaboration environments.

    The event will also emphasize real-world enterprise deployment, covering global scalability, AV standards, and post-deployment operations. Attendees will explore how collaboration is merging with broadcast-quality production and experience integrated solutions on the show floor, including the Smart Workplace. Overall, InfoComm 2026 will serve as a practical platform for AV and IT professionals to understand how modern collaboration technologies are implemented at scale.

    InfoComm 2026, the world’s most essential destination for AV, IT, broadcast, and AI-driven systems, will showcase the technologies, strategies, and real-world deployments shaping the next era of conferencing and collaboration – where collaboration technologies move from concept to implementation on June 13–19 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada with exhibits June 17–19.

    As hybrid work evolves and AI becomes embedded in meeting platforms, enterprise organizations are rethinking everything from room design and interoperability to “Day 2” support and long-term ROI. At InfoComm 2026, attendees will hear directly from Microsoft, Google, Cisco, Logitech, Zoom, Lenovo, Visa, Capital Group, and other industry leaders driving that transformation.

    “Conferencing and collaboration is no longer just about connecting people, it’s about creating intelligent, inclusive, and secure environments that support how modern organizations actually work,” said Jenn Heinold, Senior Vice President, Expositions, Americas, AVIXA, producer of InfoComm. “InfoComm 2026 brings together the platforms, devices, enterprise case studies, and forward-looking discussions that define the future of integrated collaboration.”

    AI and Intelligent Collaboration Take Center Stage

    AI-powered collaboration will be a defining theme across the week. Sessions such as “AI Enhanced Meeting Spaces: Designing for Inclusivity, Efficiency, and Smart Automation” and “The ROI of Intelligent Collaboration Spaces” will feature leaders from Logitech, Microsoft, Lenovo, Huddly, and AstraZeneca exploring how AI is transforming meeting equity, automation, and measurable business impact.

    Platform leaders will also spotlight the evolution of intelligent meeting experiences in sessions including “Unlock Meeting Equity with Google Meet AI and Logitech Room Solutions” and “AV as a Neural Network: The Architecture of Intelligent Space Design.”

    Enterprise Deployment at Scale

    Beyond innovation, InfoComm 2026 will focus on the operational realities of deploying and supporting collaboration environments across global enterprises. Highlights include:

    • “Enterprise AV Deployment at Scale: Case Study” with NETGEAR AV and CTI
    • “Crafting Enterprise AV Standards for the Modern Workplace” featuring Logitech, AVI-SPL, Microsoft, Visa, and Steelcase
    • “Day 2 Ops for Microsoft Teams Integration,” offering real-world insights into post-deployment support

    Sessions such as “Designing and Deploying AV Systems Globally at Scale – The Google Experience” will provide a look inside large-scale global collaboration strategies.

    Collaboration Expands into Broadcast and Experience

    As enterprise communications become more sophisticated, collaboration increasingly overlaps with broadcast-quality production. “Lessons Learned: Designing Corporate Studios” and “UC-Powered Broadcast Studios: How IT Teams Deliver Studio-Quality Production with Zoom and Microsoft” will explore how organizations are building studio-grade environments powered by unified communications platforms.

    Collaboration in Action on the Show Floor

    In Central Hall, attendees will find a broad range of conferencing and collaboration technologies including AI-powered meeting assistants, conferencing cameras, wireless presentation systems, room booking platforms, and unified communications solutions, demonstrating how modern workplaces are becoming more intelligent, interoperable, and human-centered.

    The Smart Workplace, powered by FORTÉ, is an all-new immersive experience on the show floor that will provide a real-world view into how these technologies come together in practice, showcasing integrated environments that support AI-enabled collaboration, immersive meeting experiences, and enterprise communications workflows.

    Two Future Workplace show floor tours will guide attendees through collaboration technologies in real-world applications, reinforcing InfoComm’s role as the place to see how integrated solutions perform at scale.

    The conferencing and collaboration education track, sponsored by Shure, takes place Tues., June 16 through Thurs., June 18. For more information on the conferencing and collaboration program at InfoComm 2026, visit infocommshow.org/conferencing-collaboration.

  • Magewell Connecting Any Source, Anywhere, in Any Form Factor at 2026 NAB Show in Stand C6113

    Magewell Connecting Any Source, Anywhere, in Any Form Factor at 2026 NAB Show in Stand C6113

    Magewell is set to showcase its latest innovations in video I/O and IP workflow solutions at NAB Show 2026 (Stand C6113), highlighting new products and deeper technology integrations. A key launch is the Pro Convert IP to AIO 4K decoder, capable of converting 4Kp60 IP streams into both HDMI 2.0 and 12G-SDI outputs with HDR support. Designed for flexibility, the device supports a wide range of streaming protocols including NDI, SRT, RTMP, and RIST, while also offering a built-in multi-viewer for monitoring multiple streams simultaneously.

    In addition, Magewell is enhancing its Ultra Encode lineup with new firmware supporting NDI 6.3 and the RIST protocol, improving reliability and interoperability for live streaming and IP production workflows. The company will also demonstrate an updated Control Hub interface, making it easier to manage large-scale deployments, especially with its modular Modator platform designed for high-density, rack-based installations.

    Magewell — a developer of innovative, high-performance video I/O and IP workflow solutions — will be at the 2026 NAB Show in stand C6113. In addition to several new product introductions, the company continues to create deep integrations with new and existing technologies and refine user interfaces across all of its product lines.

    Convert 4Kp60 IP Streams to 12G SDI and HDMI

    Magewell will unveil the new Pro Convert IP to AIO 4K decoder, the second model in the company’s new generation of multi-format IP decoding devices. Pro Convert IP to AIO 4K includes all of the rich features of the recently released Pro Convert IP to HDMI that debuted at ISE2026, and builds on them with 4K decoding at 60FPS and output via both HDMI 2.0 and 12G-SDI with support for HDR10 and HLG.

    The new device supports a wide range of popular IP and streaming technologies (including NDI® High Bandwidth, NDI® HX2, NDI® HX3, and H.264 or H.265 delivered via SRT, RTMP, RTSP, HLS, MPEG-TS, Zixi, RIST and more), while an integrated multi-viewer displays up to four HD IP input streams in preset dual or quad layouts. Full specifications can be found at www.magewell.com/products/pro-convert-ip-to-aio-4k.

    NDI® 6.3 Support Across the Ultra Encode Line

    Magewell’s Ultra Encode family is well-known for their versatility and reliability in encoding HDMI or SDI sources for simultaneous multi-protocol streaming and file recording. They have been widely deployed for use cases ranging from remote contribution and live streaming to IP-based production and distribution. New firmware updates for the Ultra Encode HDMI Plus, Ultra Encode SDI Plus and flagship Ultra Encode AIO models add support for NDI 6.3 and the Reliable Internet Stream Transport (RIST) protocol. The update to NDI 6.3 makes the encoders discoverable within NDI Tools for easy monitoring and control. Meanwhile, the integration of RIST — an open standard developed by the Video Services Forum (VSF) for robust delivery of live video over unmanaged networks like the internet — enables reliable MPEG-TS transport over UDP and seamless compatibility with existing MPEG-TS workflows.

    New Control Hub UI Simplifies Modator Deployments

    Providing centralized configuration and control of multiple Magewell streaming and IP conversion solutions across one or more locations, the Control Hub software has become the core of Magewell conversion environments. Demonstrations will showcase a new version of Control Hub that features an enhanced user interface to easily accommodate large deployments with multiple Modator rackmount frames. The Modator platform brings the reliability and extensive functionality of Magewell’s standalone encoding and decoding devices to a scalable, high-density form factor, with each Modator 2U chassis hosting up to 10 hot-swappable modules.

  • Shotoku Brings Broadcast-Grade Control to PTZ with New Aura Range at NAB 2026

    Shotoku Brings Broadcast-Grade Control to PTZ with New Aura Range at NAB 2026

    Shotoku is introducing its new Aura range at NAB 2026, bringing broadcast-grade control to PTZ camera systems. At the center is the TR-XPTZ Control System, designed specifically for professional PTZ workflows while leveraging the proven architecture of Shotoku’s flagship control platforms. It delivers smooth, reliable multi-camera control with both manual and automated operation, giving broadcasters and enterprises a scalable, cost-effective way to elevate PTZ production quality.

    Alongside Aura, Shotoku is debuting its Swoop robotic crane family in North America and showcasing Quick-Ref, a simple yet powerful referencing system for robotic pedestals. Swoop enhances creative flexibility with precise, repeatable camera movement, while Quick-Ref improves positional accuracy using compact QR markers without disrupting production. Together, these innovations reflect Shotoku’s focus on making advanced robotic control more accessible, efficient, and production-ready.

    Shotoku USA, Shotoku Broadcast Systems’ North American operation, will unveil significant additions to its platform at NAB 2026.  Topping the list is the world premiere of Aura, a suite of advanced PTZ solutions that brings the company’s renowned high-end robotic camera control expertise into the rapidly evolving PTZ production space. Aura will join several other notable introductions including the official presentation of the Swoop robotic crane family to the North American market, and the launch of Quick-Ref, a revolutionary referencing system. Shotoku will be conducting demonstrations of the company’s entire user-friendly robotic camera control systems in Booth C 3816.

    Introducing Aura and the TR-XPTZ Control System

    As PTZ image quality and performance improve, major broadcasters, legislatures, and global corporations are successfully integrating these heads into their broadcast quality production environments.  These implementations, however, have often suffered from lack of a sophisticated, scalable control system.

    Shotoku fills this gap with the NAB launch of the Aura TR-XPTZ Control System, a powerful yet streamlined platform purpose-built for professional PTZ productions.

    Derived from the core architecture of Shotoku’s flagship TR-XT Control System, TR-XPTZ delivers the smoothness, reliability, and multi-camera sophistication broadcasters expect — optimized specifically for PTZ environments. The result is a cost-effective system that functions seamlessly without sacrificing the capabilities that has made Shotoku a world-leading supplier of remote camera control systems for more than two decades.

    Key advantages include:

    • A level of control and automation formerly exclusive to full-scale broadcast robotics in an easy-to-use yet powerful system
    • A meticulously refined user experience that retains the powerful, intuitive multi-camera and multi-user operations of the TR-XT while stripping away elements unnecessary for PTZ-specific workflows
    • The capability to smoothly support both manual and automated workflows for any size production

    The TR-XPTZ marks the beginning of a broader ecosystem designed by Shotoku to enhance both the physical and operational performance of PTZ systems. By blending extensive robotic control expertise with a forward-looking focus on a rapidly growing range of PTZ applications, the Aura range delivers the reliability and sophistication major broadcasters and international organizations demand, and for which Shotoku is renowned.

    The TR-XPTZ is just the start of Aura. Watch this space for further announcements leading up to NAB.

    Swooping into North America

    Following its introduction at IBC 2025, Shotoku’s Swoop is making its formal North American debut.  Developed to replace manually operated cranes and jibs, Shotoku’s Swoop overcomes the typical challenges presented by traditional jibs and cranes including the need for one or even two dedicated operators, and the inability to be tightly integrated into robotic camera systems. Swoop removes these obstacles while combining creativity, control, and safety in one elegantly engineered system.

    Swoop is available in two sizes: Swoop 140 and Swoop 220, representing a boom arm reach of 4’7” (140 cm) and 7’3” (220 cm). Both versions combine precision engineering with Shotoku’s reliability, enabling production directors to create and precisely repeat sweeping shots with confidence and ease.

    Swoop offers two base options to match production needs and budgets. The SmartPed robotic base (Swoop SP) provides complete freedom of movement across the studio floor with remotely controlled X/Y positioning.  Alternatively, a manual base delivers a cost-effective solution where manual relocating of the base between shots or shows is all that’s required.

    Swoop integrates seamlessly with Shotoku’s TR-XT advanced control system for complete control of the crane within the studio. TR-XT’s StudioView display shows Swoop’s location relative to other cameras, while the SoftRail system allows Swoop SP to be controlled along tightly defined SoftRail paths ensuring precise, safe, and consistent movement across the floor.

    Safety is paramount, and Swoop systems are designed from the ground up with this in mind. Multiple intelligent proximity detectors are mounted along the length of the arm and above and below the payload creating a dynamic protective “bubble” that detects obstacles, stops all movement, and prevents collisions.

    “Swoop enables broadcasters to reach new heights—and new lows,” says James Eddershaw, Managing Director, Shotoku. “It expands creative possibilities while providing the operational flexibility and safety that modern live production demands.”

    Quick-Ref: Seamless Referencing for SmartPed and Swoop-SP

    Shotoku is also highlighting the new Quick-Ref feature – a simple yet transformative advancement in robotic pedestal navigation for Shotoku’s SmartPed and Swoop-SP. Quick-Ref uses a miniature QR-coded floor marker — no larger than a postage stamp — containing positional data read automatically by the pedestal when it is over the marker, updating its internal navigation frequently and correcting any errors without requiring operator intervention.

    Unlike traditional home tiles or complex external optical tracking systems, Quick-Ref is:

    • Low cost
    • Simple to install
    • Can be placed in the main set
    • Fully automatic in operation – no operator involvement

     The result is more frequent, effortless re-referencing and improved long-term positional accuracy — all without interrupting production.

  • InfoComm 2026 Names Shure as Exclusive Headline Partner, Showcasing Audio and Collaboration Innovation Across Key Activations and Stages

    InfoComm 2026 Names Shure as Exclusive Headline Partner, Showcasing Audio and Collaboration Innovation Across Key Activations and Stages

    InfoComm 2026 has announced Shure Incorporated as the exclusive Headline Partner for the upcoming show taking place June 13–19, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Through this partnership, Shure will help enhance the show experience with interactive demonstrations, thought-leadership sessions, and technology showcases that highlight the role of advanced audio and collaboration solutions in modern AV environments.

    As part of the partnership, Shure will power key show floor activations including the Pitch Activation Hub and the Smart Workplace Activation Hub, demonstrating real-world AV applications in sports, entertainment, and enterprise collaboration spaces. The company will also lead sessions on the Vision Stage and Spotlight Stage, sharing insights on how AI, integrated AV systems, and professional audio technologies are shaping the future of communication, collaboration, and live experiences.

    InfoComm 2026, the world’s most essential destination for AV, IT, broadcast, and AI-driven systems, today announced Shure Incorporated as the exclusive Headline Partner for the upcoming show, taking place June 13–19 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada (exhibits June 17–19).

    As Headline Partner, Shure will play an expanded role in shaping the onsite experience—bringing more than 100 years of innovation and industry-leading expertise in audio and collaboration technology to life through high-impact show floor activations, thought leadership programming, and real-world demonstrations that showcase how next-generation technologies are transforming the future of work and play across industries.

    “InfoComm is the world’s most vital pro AV show because the technologies on display are essential to how people communicate, collaborate, and experience the world,” said Jenn Heinold, Senior Vice President, Expositions, Americas, AVIXA, producer of InfoComm. “Shure’s partnership helps us elevate that experience for attendees – especially at the intersection of pro AV, broadcast workflows, and modern collaboration.”

    “InfoComm 2026 marks a defining moment for our industry. AI capabilities and IT standards have changed how people use technology where they work, live, and play – and now is the time to reimagine what’s possible,” said Sean Bowman, Associate VP, Sales North America at Shure. “As headline partner, Shure is committed alongside InfoComm, AVIXA and the customers who rely on AV every day, to combining innovative breakthroughs with user workflow expertise to help shape a smarter, scalable, more connected future for the industry.”

    Shure’s Partnership Will Power Signature InfoComm 2026 Experiences

    As Headline Partner, Shure will play a key role in powering select InfoComm 2026 show floor experiences designed to showcase integrated AV and Collaboration solutions in action across high-impact environments.

    The Pitch Activation Hub (North Hall): A soccer-inspired activation highlighting the intersection of live event production, broadcast workflows, and immersive fan experiences. Shure will help power real-world demonstrations of audio and communication solutions used in sports and entertainment environments.

    The Smart Workplace Activation Hub (Central Hall): An immersive Class A workspace environment showcasing the technologies redefining hybrid work, meeting equity and human-centered office design for today’s connected enterprise. Shure will support the Hub’s audio foundation, showcasing how enterprise-grade sound enables everything from daily collaboration to executive town halls and internal broadcasts.

    In addition, Shure will deliver thought leadership and practical insights directly on the show floor through dedicated stage programming, including:

    • A 90-minute Vision Stage takeover, featuring a curated block of Shure-led thought leadership and technical sessions, and
    • A 20-minute Spotlight Stage session offering practical insight into how collaboration and professional audio technology solutions are being deployed across today’s integrated AV environments.

    InfoComm 2026: The World’s Most Vital Pro AV Show

    InfoComm 2026 brings together the technologies and people reshaping how we work, play, learn, communicate, and experience the world. The show will feature a refreshed Work/Play show floor experience, giving attendees a clear lens into how AV solutions support both functional and creative environments – from smart workplaces and classrooms to live events, broadcast, and immersive entertainment.

    Education runs June 13–19 in the West Hall Meeting Rooms, with exhibits June 17–19 in the North and Central Halls. The program spans the future of integrated AV across audio, conferencing and collaboration, broadcast workflows, enterprise IT, learning spaces, events and entertainment, and more – including expanding focus on how AI is being applied across AV systems, collaboration, and production.

  • AtlasIED Launches New Experience Center in Germany

    AtlasIED Launches New Experience Center in Germany

    AtlasIED has expanded its global footprint with the opening of a new experience center and showroom in Warendorf, Germany. The facility strengthens the company’s presence in the European market while providing local customers, integrators, and partners with hands-on access to AtlasIED’s commercial audio technologies, training, and support.

    The new center will demonstrate a range of solutions including the Atlas+Fyne loudspeaker family with IsoFlare™ point-source technology, the Atmosphere digital audio and control platform, Aimline digitally steerable arrays, amplifiers, and Dante-enabled audio solutions. By creating a dedicated European hub, AtlasIED aims to strengthen customer engagement, showcase its technology portfolio, and support the growing AV integration community across the region.

    AtlasIED, a recognized leader in the commercial audio and security industries, has announced the expansion of its global presence with the opening of a new experience center and showroom in Warendorf, Germany. This initiative highlights AtlasIED’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional local customer service and training, and reinforces AtlasIED’s dedication to its European customers.

    The beautiful and historic town of Warendorf has long been a centre of innovation and is an ideal location for a centralized European office. As AtlasIED’s customer base continues to rapidly evolve in the European market, this local presence will prove to be profoundly beneficial.

    “The global expansion of AtlasIED is at the core of our mission,” said Matt Czyzewski, Executive Vice President, AtlasIED. “Germany plays a significant role in the European market, and being able to connect directly with potential customers will expand our efforts to a new level.”

    The experience center will showcase AtlasIED technology solutions that have been evolving and improving installations for over 90 years. Highlights include the impressive performance of the Atlas+Fyne family of loudspeakers. The IsoFlare™ point-source transducer technology delivers high output and premium performance for venues where guest experience is paramount. Additionally, the centre will feature a wide variety of AtlasIED solutions, showcasing versatility and breadth of application from the Atmosphere digital audio and control platform, to Aimline digitally steerable arrays and amplifiers, to diverse loudspeaker form factors and Dante™ enabled audio.

    “Our European customer base is rapidly growing, and I see it firsthand,” said Simon Godfrey, Director of Sales – EMEA at AtlasIED. “Being able to showcase our technology directly to all of our customers, the people I work closely with, is essential, and I look forward to witnessing the growth that this next step will propel us into.”

  • The Digital Signage Summit 2026 Sets the Global Agenda as Registration Opens for Landmark 20th Edition

    The Digital Signage Summit 2026 Sets the Global Agenda as Registration Opens for Landmark 20th Edition

    The Digital Signage Summit (DSS) 2026 has opened registration for its landmark 20th edition, bringing together global leaders from the digital signage, DOOH, and retail media sectors. Organized by invidis in partnership with Integrated Systems Events, the summit has become a key platform where senior executives discuss market trends, share insights, and shape the future direction of the industry.

    Under the theme “NextGen Signage,” DSS 2026 will explore how AI, new technologies, and evolving business models are transforming digital signage. The event will also reflect on the industry’s 20-year journey, from early display technologies to today’s intelligent, connected ecosystems, while giving attendees opportunities to network and discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping the next phase of growth.

    Marking its 20th anniversary, The Digital Signage Summit (The DSS) 2026, organised by invidis in a joint venture with Integrated Systems Events (ISE), will bring together the sector’s most senior leaders for a strategic examination of the forces reshaping digital signage and DOOH. Over two decades, the Summit has evolved into the industry’s principal platform for executive-level exchange, providing a neutral environment for high-level insight, peer dialogue, and long-term vision setting.

    As the pre-eminent forum for the market’s most influential decision-makers, The DSS presents strategic perspectives from the world’s leading innovators and solution providers. By fostering cohesion across Retail Digital Signage, DOOH, and Retail Media, the Summit establishes shared priorities, guides capital allocation, and defines the sector’s next phase of sustainable growth.

    Under the theme NextGen Signage, The DSS 2026 will bring together leaders to reimagine, rethink, reinvent, recalibrate, and reset digital signage in a time of transformation. This milestone edition will examine the strategic and technological forces reshaping the global market, from economic shifts and consolidation to new competitive pressures and the accelerating impact of AI, while redefining content workflows, operations, and the broader value chain. Attendees will hear the Anniversary Keynote, “20 Years on Screen: The Stories, the Shifts, the Future”, reflecting on the industry’s evolution and looking ahead to the next chapter, with evening networking and 20th‑birthday celebrations at Airbräu.

    “Twenty years of DSS is the perfect moment to look back at the first two decades of digital signage and to do it in an entertaining way,” says Florian Rotberg, Founder & Owner of invidis consulting GmbH. “Our industry has grown from a niche built on CRT tubes to a business-critical ecosystem powered by LEDs, commoditized screens, and increasingly sophisticated software and service platforms. The old silos are gone, and the future is wide open – intelligent, connected, and AI driven. We’re excited to celebrate some of the best moments from 20 years of digital signage and to share our perspective on where the next five years will take us.”

    Reflecting on the sector’s current trajectory, Stefan Schieker, Senior Partner of invidis consulting GmbH, adds: “Digital signage has matured. With easier tech and AI accelerating everything from content to analytics, we can finally focus on real value and future-ready business models. Despite global challenges, this moment is a turning point full of disruption, but even more full of opportunity.”

    Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events, emphasises the Summit’s ongoing significance: “As we mark twenty years of Digital Signage Summit, the event remains the definitive forum for industry leaders to assess shifting priorities and emerging challenges in digital signage. This is where the industry’s most forward-thinking leaders converge, and where the next big ideas take shape.”

  • IBC2026 unveils strategic partnership with EIT Culture & Creativity to drive next-generation innovation

    IBC2026 unveils strategic partnership with EIT Culture & Creativity to drive next-generation innovation

    IBC has announced a strategic partnership with EIT Culture & Creativity, naming the organization as its European Innovation Partner for 2026. The collaboration aims to strengthen innovation in the broadcast and audiovisual industry by connecting Europe’s creative technology ecosystem with IBC’s global media and entertainment network. The partnership was introduced during the IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme’s Kickstart Day 2026, where industry leaders begin shaping new projects that address real-world challenges.

    Through this partnership, EIT Culture & Creativity will bring its network of startups, research institutions, creative clusters, and investors to support the Accelerator Programme. The initiative focuses on turning early ideas and proof-of-concepts into scalable solutions across areas such as AI, trusted media, intellectual property, and rights management. The program will run through a six-month innovation cycle, ending with live demonstrations at IBC2026 in September.

    IBC today announced a new strategic partnership with EIT Culture & Creativity – the institutional partnership for culture and creativity, supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) – appointing it as its European Innovation Partner for 2026. Announced at the IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme’s Kickstart Day 2026, the partnership reflects the two organisations shared commitment to advancing the broadcast and audiovisual industry and has the potential to meaningfully accelerate collaborative progress. Together, the two organisations aim to create clearer pathways from proof-of-concept to deployment across the global media and entertainment (M&E) ecosystem – starting with the Accelerator Programme.

    “This new partnership promises to further accelerate innovation across the IBC community,” said Michael Crimp, Chief Executive Officer of IBC. “Kickstart Day is where many of the industry’s next breakthroughs begin, so it’s the right moment to announce this collaboration. Working with EIT Culture & Creativity, we are strengthening the pathway for M&E innovators to engage with the international media leaders who come to IBC to invest, form partnerships, and bring new solutions to market.”

    Added Anette Schaefer, CEO of EIT Culture & Creativity: “This partnership connects Europe’s creative innovation ecosystem in the broadcast and audiovisual sector with its extensive industry network in a way that is practical, visible, and impactful. IBC is the ideal partner to help us demonstrate that culture and creativity sit at the heart of technology transformation.”

    The partnership combines EIT Culture & Creativity’s pan-European network – supporting entrepreneurship and growth across Europe’s cultural and creative sectors – with IBC’s global reach through its conference, exhibition, and media platforms.

    Under the agreement, EIT Culture & Creativity is contributing thought leadership and access to its ecosystem of start-ups, research institutions, creative clusters, and investors to support the Accelerator Programme. This kicked off with participation in a high-level, invitation-only strategic roundtable on innovation strategies that took place on the eve of Kickstart Day. The roundtable focused on key trends and issues shaping the broadcast and audiovisual industry, including trusted media, intellectual property, authenticity, rights management, and artificial intelligence (AI).

    The Accelerator Programme’s Kickstart Day, held this year at BBC Broadcasting House, brings together leading broadcasters, streamers, technology vendors, start-ups, and academic partners to pitch and form collaborations around real-world industry challenges. It marks the start of a six-month fast-track innovation cycle culminating in live Proof of Concept (PoC) demonstrations in the Accelerator Zone at IBC2026 from 11–14 September.

    Since its launch in 2019, the IBC Accelerator Programme has become a recognised platform for cross-industry collaboration, enabling media organisations and technology partners to work together in a structured, fast-track environment. Real-world projects are driven by industry “Champions” – including broadcasters, studios and content owners – who define the challenges, with “Participants” – vendors and innovators contributing expertise to develop practical, scalable solutions.