Discussing the latest technological news with our respected experts – Philip Grossman and Mary Ann Seidler. Don’t forget to give the program a like!
Maria: Amazon Web Services (AWS) has introduced the AWS Generative AI Innovation Center, a program aimed at assisting customers in developing and deploying generative artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. With a $100 million investment, AWS will connect its AI and machine learning experts with customers worldwide to envision, design, and launch generative AI products and services.
Philip, start us off, what do you think about this?
Philip: I have mixed emotions about this. Generative AI, while fascinating in terms of what we can achieve and the creations it can generate, raises the question of whether instructing a machine to create something makes one an artist. It also raises concerns about the potential displacement of artists and the impact on art education. If people can simply input the right words into a prompt and spend more time perfecting the prompt than learning the underlying technology, it may diminish the value of artistic skills. As an older individual and somewhat of a Luddite, I find it interesting to see a large organization like AWS directly engaging with the general business population to explore what they can build. From this perspective, it’s intriguing, and I reserve judgment until I see the actual outcomes. Mary, what are your thoughts on generative AI?
Mary: Well, I am a big fan of AWS because I completed one of their certification programs. They have been extremely supportive and helpful in enabling us to learn new technologies that were previously unfamiliar in our industry. That being said, I wonder how this program could assist audio professionals. Having an AI-driven audio processor might take away some of the magic. There’s beauty in imperfections, which is inherent to human creations. Flaws in voice or adjustments in audio processing bring a unique charm. So, I see value in using generative AI as an assistant or a helper, rather than allowing it to completely take over.
Neslihan Avshar of AWS shares her thoughts on the AWS Generative AI Innovation Center:
Maria: Now moving on, Shure has released Wireless Workbench 7, a tool designed to simplify RF spectrum management for audio professionals. The new version includes features such as the WWB Scan Library for pre-coordination, a dark mode for better visibility in low-light environments, improved device discovery, show pack functionality, and updated reports.
Mary, as our audio expert, what are your thoughts on this?
Mary: This is a tremendous help. When we first started with AOIP, we had to manually document all the channel numbers and physically determine their placement. This tool is incredibly useful for detecting interference and its causes. It’s an excellent troubleshooting tool and allows us to visualize the entire spectrum. Initially, as an RF person, I wondered if we could use it to identify pirate stations in FM, but that’s not its intended purpose. Nonetheless, it’s an impressive technology. The more I explored it, the more I thought of having it running constantly to ensure everything is in order.
Wireless Workbench 7: New Scan Library, Updated Look And More
Philip: During my time at the Weather Channel many years ago, I had my first exposure to RF frequency management and spectrum management within studios. I can see how a tool like this could be highly valuable in those environments or in large concert arenas where numerous devices rely on wireless connectivity instead of wired microphones.
Maria: Mary, do you believe this will have a significant impact on the industry?
Mary: I believe it will certainly be helpful, but there’s a possibility that people may start relying on it as a default tool due to its time-saving capabilities and troubleshooting efficiency.
Maria: Moving on, a study commissioned by Vizrt reveals that 70% of respondents find 3D, augmented reality (AR) graphics, and sports analysis tools enhance their sports viewing experience. The research highlights the changing preferences of younger audiences, with Gen Z favoring mobile phone viewing and shorter content.
New study finds AR graphics, sports analysis, and replay crucial for engaging younger audiences
Philip, what are your quick thoughts on this?
Philip: It’s interesting to see that the study aligns with reality. Not everything happening on the field is immediately visible, and it reminds me of the telestrator days when commentators would draw on a board to illustrate the game. Now, technology takes it to the next level and helps audiences better understand sports events. As for Gen Z, who love watching content on their phones, they might have a different perspective once they reach their forties and their eyesight deteriorates. We’ll see if they still prefer phone viewing then. But it’s definitely an intriguing tool, and I’m glad to see the sports media embracing it.
Maria: That’s all the time we have today. Many thanks to our experts – Philip, Mary and Neslihan! And don’t forget to comment on the news we’ve discussed. See you next Monday at the same time! Goodbye!
Our experts:
- Philip Grossman, an independent advisor providing thought leadership and solutions architecture to leaders and organizations in the film and television industry (USA)
- Mary Ann Seidler, owner of First Light Media and consultant for multiCAM Systems and Telos Alliance
The live broadcast took place on June 26, 2023. Production – TKT1957 LLC.
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