Network 10 is making a technological leap ahead in Australian broadcast media. Today, it revealed a virtual studio that puts presenters in a room designed by one of the world’s leading graphics platforms and operated by automated cameras.
Named Studio 1A, the Melbourne space is designed for fluid and immersive reporting by broadcast teams. In reality, they are sitting at a desk surrounded by a green screen, but on the broadcast, it’s a fully rendered, flashy newsroom.
The rendering comes via Unreal Engine, a software well known for its capacity to make near-photorealistic computer-generated visuals in broadcast, film and video games. At full power, the software can craft truly brain-meltingly sharp visuals, as proven in an Unreal Engine 5-produced tech demo for “The Witcher 4” released earlier this year.
While Network 10 won’t be using it to generate snow-crusted pathways and forests down to the individual leaves, the software will enable swift transitions between news, special events and other broadcast formats by simply loading a new virtual set — freeing presenters from fixed positions, opening up new ways to deliver stories and engage viewers.
Pair that with an array of automated camera systems, and the broadcast team can use precise integrations with graphics, delivering more complex shots on-air and utilising effects that were previously unattainable.
VP News Martin White said the studio is a major new asset for Network 10’s news operations: “It’s a really exciting time here at 10 News. Our local 5pm bulletin is up 9% year-on-year across all markets, and we know how important the Melbourne market is. Victorians love local news, so I’m thrilled we’re able to give them an unparalleled, immersive local news, sport and weather experience with this new technology.”
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“Our team is at the forefront of news in this country, and this is just a first step,” added White.