Tracy Swedlow

#Radio in the #metaverse transforms passive listening into an active, engaging #digital experience that combines entertainment, #community, & innovation, pushing the boundaries of how we think about radio & #audio content in the digital age. Musicians: go to www.loud.surf & follow your #destiny.

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In the Average daily watch time of #streaming platforms in the USA, the time spent for the last 2 years and 6 months of 2024, have been consistent for the top 3 streamers. #discovery+ and #netflix are neck to neck with 2.9 hours per day. #hulu is very close with 2.7 hours per day. What is most interesting is that where Netflix has more than 4 billion hours of original series being streamed, Discovery + just has 6 million of original series streamed. This shows the power of Discovery's library that viewers are engaged in the legacy content of the platform. Even with a lower subscriber base, the watch time being the same as Netflix viewers, Discovery +'s content is more sticky. Hulu has 350 million hours of original series streamed. In comparison this also shows Hulu's library power as it has less than 10% of Netflix's original streaming hours but matches the watch time with both the top 2 streamers consistently for years. This is also because of Live TV being on Hulu. What is surprising is that #max daily watch has been less than an hour for last 3 years. Even #peacock is ahead of them. Building content and building legacies goes hand in hand.

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I have been looking at the The Black List model for a long time and understand that it has huge unrealized potential. In fact, Black List removes only part of the investment risks in IP, acting as a kind of Early Stage Metacritic. But without testing the idea in battle (at least at the MVP stage), the risks still remain the same - often divergent critics' ratings and audience ratings on Rotten Tomatoes will not let you lie. We designed our technological cycle at Mad Crusader taking these risks into account. And we decided to implement IP design at the meta-level at the creative idea stage and connect production partners to the project at the early stage, who turn the designed IP into an MVP. We will go even further and offer, among other things, a full-cycle model - from idea to publishing, which can work as a conveyor for mass IP production in any corner of the planet. And such a framework will now be created by all industrial giants.

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In Q1 2024, Netflix and Amazon accounted for 53% of all global SVOD commissions. In the first quarter, the number of Netflix commissions out of Western Europe, led by originals from the U.K., Spain, and Germany, nearly matched that of North America, and Asia Pacific titles also saw a notable uptick. Amazon also upped its game in Asia, particularly in India, where the streamer ordered a record slate of 37 new titles, more than the previous six quarters combined, setting a new record for quarterly commissions. Both continue reaffirming their leadership in the streaming market through aggressive commissioning of original content, particularly outside the U.S. This aligns with their growing need to tap into new subscriber bases in regions with higher growth potential than the saturated North American market. The shift towards international productions is a smart move for Netflix and Amazon. It broadens their appeal across diverse markets and keeps them competitive in the ever-evolving and challenging streaming landscape. By understanding and catering to local preferences, these streaming giants are building a loyal subscriber base, which is essential for long-term growth and stability. The strategic focus on cost-effective productions also highlights the importance of financial diplomacy in sustaining high volumes of original content. For more detailed read check out the article below. #streamingwars #netflixoriginals #amazonprimevideo #svod #contentstrategy #internationalproductions #localizedcontent #entertainmentindustry #contentstrategy #streaming

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🤔 In case you wondered how AI is helping to reshape your broadcasting or TV business? 🎬 Then, check out this insightful document below that is guide to do an initial assessment of how your industry segment, your organisation or your role is affected by the power of AI - or not! 🎥 But that's not all! It also gives you some specific examples to explore the potential of AI to enhance content creation, audience engagement, and production efficiency. 📖 This is part of the first step in our 5-step process to develop an AI Strategy. If you want to dive deeper, you need to use our AI in Action - Strategy Workbook for Broadcast, TV and Media businesses (see link below). ➡️ Whether you're already using AI or just starting to explore its possibilities, this document and the book are a must-have.

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The Cumulus compensation ploy • May 2nd Cumulus had their annual shareholders meeting and they were not talking about what their angry investors did. • They approved one thing – their account firm. • When asked to re-elect their board of directors, a surprising and resounding outcome. • The company is still laying employees off and shrinking operations so when they asked shareholders to show a financial vote of confidence in them, an even greater surprise. • What’s really going on here – a questionable debt exchange deal, a second bankruptcy and a growing rift between investors and their top management. https://lnkd.in/gQRZYCWq

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MASTERING YOUR FUTURE: STRATEGIC ALLIANCES, FORMAT SHIFTS & LICENSING FRONTIERS I am looking forward to moderating this panel from Media Xchange (Tuesday, June 4 at 9a ET) on licensing strategies among the big players as an alternative to commissioning.

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What the FCC has Against Audacy • The unspoken damage the FCC is doing to Audacy. • Why other radio bankruptcies got the green light to emerge quicker. • How this delay jeopardizes the Soros plan to rebuild Audacy. • The delay’s effect on Audacy’s plan to sell, consolidate or shut down some stations. https://lnkd.in/eh8pVJnY

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In the world of television and film, free-to-air (FTA) streaming services have emerged as a game-changer. As traditional cable subscriptions continue to decline, viewers are increasingly turning to FTA platforms for their entertainment fix. However, the sustainability of these services hinges on a crucial factor: sponsorship. According to recent research, sponsorship is the future of FTA streaming for TV and movies. As these platforms continue to gain popularity, they will require the support of sponsors to keep them running. This presents a unique opportunity for businesses looking to reach a wider audience and connect with potential customers. As viewership on FTA platforms continues to grow, it's clear that these services are here to stay. But without the support of sponsors, their future could be uncertain. To learn more about the role of sponsorship in FTA streaming, check out this informative article: https://lnkd.in/eaYdcrfM

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🚀 The Growth of Virtual Production: An Opportunity for the Future of Entertainment 🎥   The virtual production market is experiencing extraordinary growth: it's projected to expand from USD 3.1 billion in 2023 to USD 5.1 billion by 2027, with an annual growth rate of 14.5%. 📈 This growth is driven by the establishment of new virtual production studios and the rising demand for high-quality visual effects in films and TV series. 🎬 (sources: http://bit.ly/3zKUqfK)    What’s Driving This Boom? 🔹 Innovative Technologies: The adoption of real-time rendering engines and virtual cameras enables the creation of top-tier visual effects, reducing post-production costs and time. 🖥️   🔹 OTT Expansion: The growth of platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+ is generating massive demand for original content, making virtual production essential to maintaining high visual quality. 🏆    Challenges to Overcome 💡 However, a key challenge remains the lack of skilled professionals capable of handling these technologies. The transition of talent from traditional cinema VFX and from the gaming industry to the film production with the new innovative tools introduces new communication and competency challenges. 🎮 ➡️ 🎥   Market opportunities for Production House, Rental Company and VFX houses:  Virtual production will become increasingly viable with the adoption of "smart workflows", where scene and content preparation can take place offline. Furthermore, if the  selected products can be used not only in virtual production but also in broadcast and live evens, such as entertainment shows and concerts the R.O.I of the investments will be much faster. Another crucial factor is the need for intensive global training programs to build a strong talent pool that can support the rapid growth of the industry. 💡 With this rapid growth and the demand for new hardware and software solutions, system builders have the opportunity to position themselves as strategic partners in the entertainment sector by offering systems optimized for virtual production. 📍 Want to learn how to seize this opportunity? Contact me to discover how we can build innovative solutions for virtual production together. 💬

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🔥 🔥 🔥 Unity Cancels Its Controversial Runtime Fee Policy Matthew Bromberg, the President and CEO of Unity Technologies, who stepped to the plate following the resignation of John Riccitiello, continues the company's Redemption Arc by announcing that the universally hated Runtime Fee policy, introduced exactly a year ago to the day, has been canceled, effective immediately. Details and new subscription prices: https://lnkd.in/dntZ-kgM #unity #unity3d #madewithunity #unityengine #gameengine #gamedevelopment #gamedev #indiedev #indiegamedev #games #videogames

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Shareholder rebuke of Cumulus • Cumulus has upped their offer and delivered the needed support to do a debt exchange that buys them more time, but there is a big downside. • Shareholders are in ill humor as they recently rebuked the company, its CEO and c-suite executives – here’s what Cumulus had to admit to the government. • Cumulus gets a few more years, debt holders get a higher payout but it’s their next move that matters most. • The best outcome that can be expected from this lopsided debt exchange. • How both equity and debt investors are likely to get screwed by Cumulus. https://lnkd.in/eAyU9Zfj

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U.K. Government Forum to Scrutinize Future of TV Broadcasting Amid Streaming Concerns The UK government’s recent initiative to convene a forum addressing the evolving landscape of streaming and broadcasting is a pivotal step toward aligning regulatory frameworks with the rapid advancements in media consumption. As highlighted by The Hollywood Reporter, this move underscores the necessity for a collaborative approach among policymakers, industry leaders, and content creators to ensure that regulations not only protect consumer interests but also foster innovation and growth within the sector. In an era where streaming platforms are reshaping the way audiences engage with content, it’s imperative that our regulatory strategies evolve accordingly. This forum presents a unique opportunity to address challenges such as content standards, fair competition, and the protection of intellectual property rights. As a TV executive and format creator, I recognize the importance of such dialogues in shaping a sustainable and dynamic media environment. It’s encouraging to see the UK government taking proactive measures to adapt to the changing media landscape, ensuring that both consumers and creators can thrive in this new era of broadcasting. For a detailed overview of this development, refer to The Hollywood Reporter’s coverage.

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Exploring the Cutting-Edge: A Recap of ProteinMetrics Livestream Event https://lnkd.in/eiZHAniR On April 24, iseetechllc.com did an illuminating livestream event in collaboration with ProteinMetrics, captivating audiences with insights into the forefront of scientific innovation. Broadcasting from the vibrant hub of Cambridge, Massachusetts, this event brought together a distinguished lineup of scientists and business owners to delve into the realm of protein analysis and its multifaceted applications. At the heart of the event was ProteinMetrics, a pioneering company renowned for its groundbreaking solutions in protein analysis. With a focus on advancing proteomics research, the company stands at the intersection of science and technology, driving progress in fields ranging from pharmaceuticals to biotechnology. The livestream showcased a diverse array of perspectives, with scientists and business owners offering their expertise on the subject. From discussing the latest advancements in protein analysis techniques to exploring the practical implications for various industries, the speakers provided invaluable insights that resonated with both seasoned professionals and curious minds alike. One of the highlights of the event was the deep dive into the technological innovations driving protein analysis forward. With rapid developments in mass spectrometry, bioinformatics, and data analytics, researchers are now equipped with powerful tools to unravel the complexities of proteins with unprecedented precision. Such advancements not only facilitate a deeper understanding of biological systems but also hold immense potential for revolutionizing drug discovery, personalized medicine, and beyond. Moreover, the event underscored the pivotal role of collaboration between academia, industry, and technology providers in driving innovation. By fostering synergies between different stakeholders, ProteinMetrics and its collaborators are paving the way for transformative discoveries that have the potential to shape the future of healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science. Beyond the scientific intricacies, the livestream also shed light on the real-world applications of protein analysis. From accelerating drug development processes to ensuring the safety and quality of food products, the insights gleaned from proteomics are catalyzing tangible advancements that impact lives on a global scale. As the event drew to a close, it left attendees inspired and informed, with a deeper appreciation for the remarkable strides being made in protein analysis. With ProteinMetrics at the forefront of innovation and iseetechllc.com facilitating meaningful conversations, this livestream event served as a beacon of knowledge and collaboration, illuminating the path towards a future where the mysteries of proteins are unlocked for the betterment of humanity.

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Bear Market "The film and TV production drought plaguing the U.S. entertainment industry appears to be “here to stay,” according to a sobering new report by ProdPro. The tracking company found that production in the United States was down about 40% in the second quarter of 2024 compared to peak-TV levels of filming activity during the same period in 2022. For nearly two years, Hollywood has suffered a stark decline in film and TV shoots that has prolonged mass unemployment and mental health crises among entertainment workers. Globally, production in the second quarter of the year was down by about 20%, compared to 2022. ProdPro also tracked studios’ spending habits, noting that they committed in the second quarter of 2024 to investing a total $11.3 billion on film and TV productions — a 39% increase from the same period in 2023, but still lagging 20% behind 2022. According to the report, data show that “returning episodic projects and mid-budget studio films” have attracted the most funding."

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**Episode Description for The Hostile Zone** Join Eric A. Cinotti and the sensational Bianca Sea in this riveting episode of The Hostile Zone as they dissect the latest breaking news and critical issues shaping our world. ### Key Topics Discussed: - **Music Industry vs. AI: A Legal Showdown Unfolds**: Dive into the explosive legal battles between AI music startups and major record labels. Understand why Universal Music Group, Sony Music Group, and Warner Music Group are taking Suno and Udio to court over alleged copyright infringements. - **Background of the Lawsuits**: Gain insights into the details of the lawsuits, the accusations against AI-generated music, and the historical context of the music industry's battles with new technology. - **Current Industry Climate**: Analyze the music industry's reaction to AI advancements, previous lawsuits against AI companies, and the balance between innovation and copyright protection. - **Implications for Creativity and Fair Use**: Explore the potential consequences for AI in music creation, the debate over the "fair use" doctrine, and the broader impact on artists and the creative industry. - **Reactions from the International Community**: Examine the responses from other content creators, including visual artists and journalists, who are also battling AI-generated content in court. - **Economic Impact**: Review the potential financial losses for record labels, with key statistics on damages sought and the broader impact on the music industry’s revenue streams. ### Watch Now Stay ahead with expert analysis and in-depth discussions. This episode is essential for anyone concerned with intellectual property rights, technological advancements, and the future of creative industries. Subscribe, hit the notification bell, and never miss an episode of The Hostile Zone with Eric A. Cinotti and Bianca Sea. **Relevant Quote:** “The music industry has always been a business, and it’s never been about anything other than money.” — Linda Ronstadt **Tags:** #MusicIndustry #AI #CopyrightInfringement #Suno #Udio #EricCinotti #TheHostileZone #IntellectualProperty #FairUse #BiancaSea **Subscribe and Stay Informed** **Contact Information:** - **Email**: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] - **Website**: [TheHostileZone.me](https://lnkd.in/eDg9m5NE), [EricCinotti.com](http://www.EricCinotti.com), [EricAndrewCinotti.com](https://lnkd.in/exBXdibi) - **Text Number**: 917-877-0171 - **Social Media**: - **Twitter**: [@TheHostileZone](https://lnkd.in/eEsfcwDw) - **Facebook**: [The Hostile Zone](https://lnkd.in/eYRte9Z7) - **Instagram**: [@TheHostileZone](https://lnkd.in/eDn9MAGe) - **LinkedIn**: [Eric A. Cinotti](https://lnkd.in/eTJrB8a2)

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I have written a lot about the Streaming Tsunami. The idea with this name is to evoke the image of a growing wave of demand for video from viewers using IP-connected devices that is crashing onto the shores of the video streaming supply chain - i.e., fixed and mobile broadband networks, content delivery networks, and cloud providers, responsible for processing and transporting video. While the streaming demand wave has grown fast in the first half of the 2020s, I expect the growth to accelerate in the second half. The supply-side of the streaming industry is a fascinating place. It enables new types of demand (e.g., mobile devices and TVs enabling new viewing experiences; fiber connectivity for lightning-fast download speeds), while also forcing expansions to reach new levels of capacity and capability (e.g., the Edge servers and ISP core networks that transport the video to the viewers; the introduction of multicast formats for streaming). But what about the stimulators of the demand-side that drive people to watch content in the first place, and underpin Media industry revenue?  As TV generally shifts to Streaming, and as other forms of entertainment continue to squeeze the available time people have for watching traditional Media content, the demand-side warrants more attention. Therefore, in my latest series of articles, I am taking an in-depth look at the fascinating subject of Interactive Rights: - Interactive Rights are creating a new frontier in the media industry; - Driven by the Streaming era, Interactive Rights hold an important promise – to deeply engage the modern viewer in a way that creates a new value exchange between viewers, content owners, brands, and other stakeholders; - This series delves deeply into the technology and business models involved and describes how leading content owners are driving the next-generation value-exchange with viewers. The introductory article – "The Converged Entertainment Paradigm driving Interactive Rights" – is published now (register for free): https://lnkd.in/e7agGzbv The next two articles will be published in January on The Broadcast Bridge. They highlight how sports content owners are pioneering Interactive Rights and describe the 3 key pillars on which Interactive Rights are being built for the future. Future articles will dive into the technology and rule-building approach that underpins how the viewer experience is managed and how new revenues are generated. I’d like to thank the important contributions to these first articles from industry pioneers ATP Tour, Play Anywhere, Inc., and Ease Live. With more to follow. Alan Bruno, Yaacov ben-Yaacov, Kjetil Horneland, Aaron Posner, Simon Miller

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