The International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) 2024 in Amsterdam brought together more than 45,000 visitors from 170 countries from 13-16 September. This annual event is one of the most important in the media, entertainment, and technology sectors, and this year was no exception. Over 1,350 exhibitors showcased their latest innovations, with the event occupying 46,000 square meters of exhibition space.

Spyrosoft BSG at IBC2024: showcasing our expertise and expanding our network

We are thrilled to have been part of IBC2024, an event that serves as a meeting place for the media, entertainment and technology industries. Like every year, we had the opportunity to showcase our cutting-edge solutions, connect with industry leaders and strengthen relationships with key players. Our team was excited to showcase some key offerings that have already garnered a lot of interest and recognition, such as: OTT Managed Services, Connected TV App Framework, AI Solutions for Media, CTV & STB Test Lab, Integrations & Implementations.

We are proud to say that our presence at IBC2024 was a huge success. Not only did we connect with countless potential customers and partners, but we also made many valuable new contacts that will shape our collaboration in the coming months. The event provided us with the perfect platform to showcase our innovative solutions to a global audience and further cement our reputation as a leader in media technology.

Focus on AI and disinformation

A key highlight of IBC2024 was its focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing role in the industry. The new AI Tech Zone, supported by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), attracted visitors interested in how AI is being used in practical applications such as video editing, music and audio separation, and content tracking. The growing presence of artificial intelligence in the media was also evident in discussions about its potential impact on news verification and the creation of more immersive media experiences.

In addition to artificial intelligence, the fight against disinformation was an important topic of discussion. The ‘Design Your Weapons to Fight Against Disinformation’ initiative aimed to address how media companies can help audiences distinguish between real and fake news. The project, part of the IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme, brought together innovators to tackle one of the most important challenges facing the media industry today.

New programmes and engagements

This year, IBC also introduced several new features to engage attendees. The IBC Talent Programme focused on recruitment and mentoring, discussing the importance of bringing diverse perspectives into the industry. A key objective was to address the skills gap and prepare the next generation of media professionals. This programme was preceded by the World Skills Café, where professionals shared insights on global media skills development.

Another new feature was an event for audiovisual (AV) buyers, where media technology companies were able to interact directly with major AV buyers such as Bank of America, Barclays, and KPMG. This event allowed exhibitors to make direct and meaningful contact with potential customers.

Key trends shaping the industry

The IBC2024 conference covered several other key trends, including 5G, cloud computing, the metaverse, e-sports, over-the-top (OTT) services, and streaming. These topics were covered in sessions at the RAI’s newly located Auditorium Complex, as well as in presentations on the exhibition floor.

Leading global media technology brands such as Sony, Microsoft, AWS, Canon and Samsung showcased their latest innovations alongside 150 new exhibitors, highlighting the growing interest in media technology. Companies such as Blackmagic, Arri, and Grass Valley demonstrated the latest developments in content production and delivery.

The value of in-person networking in a digital era

While the move to online communication has made it easier to stay connected, IBC2024 highlighted the unparalleled value of in-person networking. In a world where virtual meetings have become the norm, the opportunity to engage face-to-face fosters a level of connection and trust that is difficult to achieve through digital channels.

Networking at IBC2024 provided a unique platform for spontaneous conversations, deeper interactions, and the chance to meet industry leaders and peers in an informal setting. Many attendees noted that these in-person meetings often lead to unexpected opportunities and collaborations that would not have emerged from virtual interactions alone.

Looking to the future

As IBC2024 ended, the event highlighted the rapid pace of change in media and technology. With topics such as artificial intelligence, 5G, and the metaverse at the forefront, it is clear that these technologies will play an important role in shaping the future of the industry. As all content sessions from IBC2024 will be made available online via IBC365, ideas, and innovations from the event will continue to reach a global audience.

IBC will return to Amsterdam on 12-15 September 2025, promising to bring even more insights and innovations from the world of media, entertainment, and technology. Of course, we will be there!