SWR and Sony develop smart production solution

Smart production makes it easy to control PTZ cameras and mixers remotely, optimizing workflow and enabling more prolific, future-proof production.

German public television SWR has joined Sony to develop a smart production solution as it allows the network to produce more content on various multimedia platforms for less.

With the goal of optimizing operational effectiveness, cost efficiency, flexibility and agility, Sony has worked with SWR to develop a new smart touch controller which integrates into the existing ecosystem of Sony mixers.

The smart controller allows manage remote PTZ cameras and mixers from Sony via the web from anywhere. This idea based on pre-existing technology revolutionizes the traditional production workflow and allows content to be captured through intelligent production and then reused on various platforms with minimal resource consumption.

Ralf Baron, Head of IT for SWR's Media and Production department, said: "To ensure we reach and connect with young audiences through SWR's online radio shows like DASDING, we need to produce more content, faster and on more platforms than ever before. We turned to Sony for their unrivaled production expertise and interest in developing a targeted, bespoke solution that would allow us to reach a broader youth audience while ensuring our business was future-proof."

The smart production system includes innovative technology such as a touch user interface. In the future, Sony will work to add AI tools such as facial recognition and tracking or voice control to further streamline the production process.

Claus Pfeifer, head of connected content acquisition for Media Solutions at Sony Solutions Europe, highlights that "at Sony we work closely with our clients to understand their business needs and look for opportunities to address them through innovative solutions. Smart production is an exciting new concept that we have developed with SWR. This solution will allow the broadcaster to meet their content demands at a reduced cost and with the ability to adapt, grow and prepare for the future."