IBC 2024 sees record attendance and highlights AI trends and collaboration in broadcast and AV sectors

IBC 2024: AI Trends and Increased Collaboration Between Broadcast and AV Mark Record-Breaking Event

Amsterdam, Netherlands – The International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) 2024, held from 13-16 September at the RAI Amsterdam, witnessed unprecedented collaboration between the broadcast and audiovisual (AV) sectors, alongside a remarkable emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI). This year’s event saw a record-breaking attendance with 45,085 visitors from 170 countries, a noticeable increase from 2023’s 43,065 attendees.

Event Growth and Milestones

IBC2024 attracted over 1,350 exhibitors, 100 more than the previous year, utilizing an expansive 46,000 square meters of exhibition space. The event has shown continuous growth, building on prior years’ successes and establishing itself as a crucial nexus for the media, entertainment, and technology communities. Steve Connolly, IBC’s director, highlighted the positive feedback from exhibitors, emphasizing IBC’s evolution into a significant incubator of media technology innovation and a vital networking destination.

Broadcast and AV Convergence

One of the standout developments at IBC2024 was the notable crossover between the broadcast and AV sectors, with traditional broadcast vendors increasingly seeking to penetrate the AV market. This was exemplified by the newly introduced Audio Visual (AV) buyers’ event held on the eve of the show. This event facilitated dynamic interactions between media technology companies and major AV purchasers, including international corporations like Arup, AstraZeneca, Barclays, and UBS.

Michael Crimp, IBC’s CEO, expressed optimism about this trend, noting the growing interest from AV manufacturers and systems integrators. He observed, “Non-media companies are increasingly harnessing video for a wide range of uses, requiring broadcast-quality content creation and streaming technologies.”

Emphasis on AI and Innovation

AI emerged as a significant theme, with the debut of the AI Media Production Lab and the AI Tech Zone. These new initiatives offered participants insights into AI’s transformative potential across media production, delivery, and consumption. Highlights included projects focused on automated video editing, music-audio separation, and content provenance tracking. AI pioneers shared their experiences on how AI is shaping media discoverability, news verification, and immersive experiences.

The AI Tech Zone in Hall 14 served as a hub for AI innovators, featuring exhibitors like AI4ME, Magnifi, and Vionlabs. The space facilitated networking and knowledge sharing, aiming to pioneer AI transformations within the media and entertainment sectors.

Focus on Sustainability and Emerging Technologies

Alongside AI, IBC2024 showcased themes of sustainability, 5G, cloud computing, esports, immersive experiences, and over-the-top (OTT) streaming. These topics were central to the three-day IBC Conference, which was relocated to the Auditorium Complex at the RAI. The conference and show floor theatres tackled pressing industry challenges and explored new opportunities in these areas.

Talent and Diversity Initiatives

The inaugural IBC Talent Programme addressed the future of industry talent, with discussions on mentoring, recruitment challenges, and the importance of diverse perspectives. The programme aimed to nurture the next generation of media and technology professionals, preceded by the World Skills Café hosted by the Global Media and Entertainment Manifesto.

Visitor and Exhibitor Experience

Despite the positive developments, some attendees faced challenges navigating the non-linear layout of the RAI. Feedback indicated issues with inconsistent signage, making it difficult to locate adjacent halls. However, exhibitors like Sony and Absen impressed visitors with their comprehensive and visually engaging booths. Sony’s Star Wars-themed virtual production segment and Absen’s vibrant display were particularly praised.

Looking Forward

IBC2024 confirmed its upward trajectory with increased attendance and exhibitor participation, reflecting the industry’s dynamic evolution and the growing integration between broadcast and AV sectors. With the continued focus on AI innovation and technology convergence, IBC is set to remain a critical platform for industry advancements.

IBC2025 is scheduled to return to the Amsterdam RAI from 12-15 September 2025, promising further exploration of technological advances and industry trends.

Source: Noah Wire Services