Traditional TV services powered by satellite may provide new opportunities for broadcasters New approaches to viewing services are attracting and captivating the millennial and Gen-Z generations post 2020. Channels powered by satellite are introducing new forms of entertainment through traditional TV, effectively expanding their viewership and gaining widespread appeal. Younger viewers are growing Traditional television has always been a mainstay for older generations. Most viewers of traditional television are from the baby boomer and Gen X generations, while streaming services have appealed to millennials and younger generations. However, the past two years have seen linear television viewership numbers growing across all ages. What’s more surprising is that linear viewership has increased when out of home viewing is taken into account. This growing subset of younger viewers does not indicate a complete shift away from streaming services such as Netflix but implies that these generations are adding linear TV viewing to their entertainment schedules. Part of the reason for this includes the number of live events being broadcast, such as sports channels and the likelihood of new and exciting content distributed through satellite. One such recent development that encapsulates both of these aspects is the recent addition of ESR 24/7 Esports Network, the first 24/7 linear video gaming channel in Europe. The network, which was previously only available in the United States, offers unique content consisting of competitive video games, gaming events and more. Through Eutelsat’s flagship 13° East HOTBIRD position, the European launch demonstrates linear TV services’ ability to reach younger generations with exciting new channels. A growing opportunity for new channel genres Satellite linear distribution continues to grow as a complementary means for new channels and genres to reach new markets. Many channels and content offerings use satellite to reach a broad audience and proof their channel concepts. Of course, satellite broadcasting offers many advantages, such as: However, the three primary reasons why satellite is such an ideal medium for groundbreaking channels is due to the unique advantages of greater exposure, enhanced accessibility and better scaling opportunities for new channels. Greater exposure and better reach Satellite remains unchallenged when it comes to its ability to reach vast amounts of viewers quickly and effectively. Unlike terrestrial-based solutions, satellite connectivity does not need extensive local infrastructure to operate, which means it can cover any area instantly. The satellite’s reach effectively enables broadcasters to access any region, country or continent, immediately and with no gaps. New channel genres and broadcasters can thus use satellite to gain the sentiment of large swathes of a population and proof their ideas based on popular demand without worrying about accessibility. Enhanced accessibility Distributing a channel through satellite connectivity increases a broadcaster’s ability to make their content accessible to operators worldwide. Satellite’s superior reach and reliable signal allow operators to pick up the digital feeds of broadcasters in different countries, enabling new channels without dedicated infrastructural support. Cost-effective, scalable and reliable Finally, satellite distribution offers flexibility to broadcasters in scaling up or down according to their bandwidth needs. Satellite solutions are incredibly cost-effective, as they maximize the route to market by delivering to all networks simultaneously, such as DTH, cable, DTT and IP. It further reinforces this advantage by not tying its cost with the number of expected viewers. At a threshold of around 50 000 viewers in the Western Europe market (according to Eutelsat analysis), a satellite becomes more cost-efficient than terrestrial networks in the long run. A view of the future Innovative TV channels such as the ESR 24/7 Esports Network only further promote satellite linear distribution for new channel genres. The coverage, reliability and cost-effective nature of Eutelsat’s 13° East HOTBIRD position enable new channels and content offerings to access broader markets and better distribute their content to operators worldwide. Satellite provides attractive opportunities for broadcasters and new channels to multiply and diversify their distribution. In the case of ESR, Eutelsat’s HOTBIRD gave them access to over 135 million TV households to better appeal to the 1.8 billion millennial and growing Gen Z consumer market. If you would like to find out more about the unique opportunities that satellite provides, or would like to find out more about Eutelsat’s satellite solutions for television broadcasters, visit our website, or contact us today. source: https://www.esrevolution.com/

The world is changing. One blink of an eye and the technologies we thought we knew have changed. As a channel or content owner, we face new and unexplored opportunities to monetize our content in various innovative ways. Just recently, expert analysts in our industry said that Linear TV is dead, or at least was nearing its end of life. Despite that, linear TV is making its way back through FAST channels. Some traditional platforms appear to decline as their subscriber base falls while new platforms emerge. One of the biggest keys to these changes is the evolution of the internet. It used to be the case that the internet was perceived as only a semi-professional solution, not entirely trusted, and considered with skepticism. Today’s improved security and near-ubiquitous reach render the internet much more reliable, offering affordable solutions on the cloud. Delivering content over the internet has become a “no brainer” for broadcasters and has dramatically changed the economics of contribution and distribution of content around the world. This trend continues to evolve, making cloud services look very attractive to new entrants of the broadcast market. This makes many big and established players to scratch their heads and consider how they should behave, compete, and exploit their brands in this newly changed environment. Traditional networks and channels find themselves surrounded by vast numbers of different systems that they have adopted along the way to answer different needs at different times, most of them require lots of equipment (processing) and support (specific knowledge that becomes obsolete) and the result is little flexibility in operations, expensive equipment and, most importantly a lack of capability to react quickly and provide rapid responses to market requirements and demands. And the result? A slow death for some in a new world of broadcast. It is time to rethink and adapt to the required changes this new world is offering so that you can continue to do what you know best but in the most appropriate and advanced way in the new environment. In other words, it is time to go CLOUD! Moving to the cloud creates efficiencies and allows content owners to be a lot faster to market. Cloud solutions are simpler to use due to the holistic view of processes that are designed to support the needs of broadcasters in one place offering a standardized approach. The cloud makes economic sense. Removing the need for Hardware, reducing operational and human resources, as well as the knowledge required to support old and non-efficient systems, will most likely save more than a few dollars. Also, using the cloud allows you to scale and innovate with machine learning services and analytics, build, test, and launch quickly, then adapt, grow, and improve without the burden of capacity planning. The beauty of it is that it can all be done from anywhere in the world. Yes, there is a learning curve, but if you choose the right partner, your life can be much easier. “Delivering content over the internet has become a “no brainer” for broadcasters and has dramatically changed the economics of contribution and distribution of content around the world.”  iKO Media Group provides cloud services to meet the needs of all Broadcasters and content owners by creating a channel(s) for any platform and size from OTT, and FAST versions to DTH platforms and all with simple-to-use systems. We offer Broadcast Management System (BMS) fully integrated with playout allowing broadcasters complete management of their revenue streams of commercial channels and much more scalable and robust playlist management. IT’S TIME TO GO CLOUD! In addition, we offer channels new monetization streams for FAST and OTT with a unique commercial opportunity. Come with us to the future of broadcasting using the most advanced solutions over the cloud.

Greetings, fellow readers! As I sit here contemplating the fascinating realm of satellite broadcasting and content distribution for Next-generation Broadcast Operations, I am struck by the sheer magnitude of innovation that has propelled this industry forward. It is a testament to the boundless human spirit of exploration and discovery. “Innovation is not just about new technologies. It’s also about new ways of thinking about the way we do business. We need to be willing to challenge the status quo and come up with new ideas.” – David Treadway, Chairman of iKOMG. What truly excites me about this topic is the profound impact it has had on our daily lives. Satellite broadcasting has not only revolutionized the way we consume media but has also connected people across the globe, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. It has transformed our living rooms into windows to the world, providing access to a treasure trove of information, entertainment, and diverse perspectives. As we delve into the fascinating world of innovations in satellite broadcasting and content distribution, let us embrace the spirit of curiosity and wonder. Let us celebrate the minds behind these breakthroughs, whose tireless efforts have paved the way for a new era of entertainment, education, and connectivity. Join me on this captivating journey as we uncover the transformative power of satellite broadcasting and content distribution for Next-generation Broadcast Operations. Satellite Broadcasting Innovations One of the significant innovations in satellite broadcasting is the use of High Throughput Satellites (HTS). HTS delivers significantly higher data rates than traditional satellites, enabling broadcasters to transmit high-quality video content to the viewers. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global HTS market size is expected to reach USD 7.31 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 7.2% from 2020 to 2027. “Satellite broadcasting has revolutionized the way we consume content. It has made it possible to reach people all over the world with high-quality programming, and it has opened up new possibilities for innovation in content distribution.” – Michele Butera, CEO of Eutelsat. Another significant innovation is the use of Ultra High Definition (UHD) or 4K satellite broadcasting. With the increased demand for high-quality video content, UHD satellite broadcasting has become a popular option for delivering immersive viewing experiences to viewers. According to a report by Research and Markets, the global 4K TV market size is expected to reach USD 218.4 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 20.5% from 2021 to 2028. . Innovations in Teleport and Ground Services The satellite distribution industry is undergoing a transformative revolution driven by innovations in teleport and ground services. Teleports, the vital nerve centers of satellite communication, have witnessed remarkable advancements in recent years. With the integration of automated systems, cutting-edge signal processing technologies, and enhanced network management, these teleport facilities have achieved unprecedented levels of efficiency, reliability, and scalability. These groundbreaking innovations have catapulted the industry forward, with the global teleport market size projected to reach a staggering USD 17.6 billion by 2027. Leading the charge is iKOMG’s state-of-the-art teleport facility in Rome, a true pioneer in pushing the boundaries of satellite distribution. Through its visionary approach, iKOMG has established itself as a trailblazer, leveraging advanced technologies to transmit high-quality content seamlessly across the globe. Ground services, too, have experienced a revolution of their own, bolstering the performance and resilience of satellite distribution networks. Advanced tracking and monitoring systems enable precise control and optimization of satellite signals, resulting in unparalleled reception quality and minimal downtime. This ensures an exceptional viewing experience for audiences worldwide. The integration of groundbreaking technologies, such as automatic beam switching and adaptive modulation, has further propelled the efficiency and reliability of ground services provided by industry leaders like Eutelsat and SES. These innovations have empowered broadcasters to expand their global reach and deliver captivating content to diverse audiences with unmatched speed and uncompromising quality. The impact of these teleport and ground service innovations is reshaping the satellite distribution industry, empowering content providers to navigate the ever-evolving media landscape with unwavering confidence. As technology continues to advance at an accelerated pace, the industry is poised to scale new heights, delivering content seamlessly and reliably to audiences across the globe. The benefits of these innovations are far-reaching: These innovations are not just shaping the present but also laying the foundation for the future of satellite distribution. By embracing these transformative advancements, content providers can stay ahead of the curve and harness the full potential of satellite distribution to captivate audiences, bridge geographic divides, and shape the future of media consumption. Content Distribution Innovations Content distribution is an essential aspect of the broadcast industry, and with the growing demand for on-demand content, broadcasters are seeking innovative solutions for seamless content distribution. One of the significant innovations in content distribution is the use of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms. OTT platforms enable broadcasters to distribute content directly to the viewers, bypassing traditional distribution channels such as cable or satellite TV. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global OTT market size is expected to reach USD 332.52 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 16.7% from 2020 to 2025. Another significant innovation in content distribution is the use of cloud-based solutions. Cloud-based solutions provide broadcasters with a scalable and flexible solution for content distribution, allowing them to distribute content seamlessly across various platforms. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global cloud-based solution market size is expected to reach USD 1,743.7 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 14.9% from 2021 to 2028. Conclusions The advancements in satellite broadcasting and content distribution have transformed the way content is delivered to viewers. High Throughput Satellites and Ultra High Definition (UHD) satellite broadcasting have provided broadcasters with a high-quality and immersive viewing experience. The use of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms and cloud-based solutions has enabled broadcasters to distribute content seamlessly across various platforms. We are at the forefront of a new era of satellite broadcasting and content distribution, and the possibilities are endless. As technology continues to evolve, it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve and embrace innovative solutions that can help take your broadcast operations to the next level. By leveraging the latest advancements in satellite broadcasting and content distribution, you can deliver high-quality content to your viewers anywhere, anytime, and on any device. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to embrace the future of broadcasting! “ What truly excites me about this topic is the profound impact it has had on our daily lives. Satellite broadcasting has not only revolutionized the way we consume media but has also connected people across the globe, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences.  ”BY JAVIDAN FEYZIEYEV

here’s a unique charm to radio. For decades, it has been our companion during long drives, our solace during quiet nights, and our source of news, music, and stories. Its strength lies in its ability to paint pictures using just sounds and voices, allowing our imaginations to fill in the visuals. But in a world increasingly dominated by screens, how does this historically auditory medium keep up? The answer, interestingly enough, lies in embracing the very thing it lacks: visuals. Let me share with you a journey into how radio can harness the power of video to evolve, engage, and enthrall its audience in ways never imagined before. 1. The Behind-the-Scenes Magic: One of the radio’s most intriguing aspects is its mystery. Who are these voices that keep us company? What do they look like when they laugh at a joke or delve deep into a pressing issue? By creating behind-the-scenes video content, radio stations can unveil this mystery. Imagine watching your favorite radio host setting up their desk, choosing the day’s music, or sharing a candid laugh with a guest. These personal glimpses can make listeners feel more connected, making the voices they hear every day more relatable and real. 2. Elevating Audio with Visual Storytelling: But it’s not just about revealing the faces behind the voices. It’s also about enhancing the stories they tell. While radio has the power to spark our imagination, integrating visual elements can give depth to its content. For instance, a discussion about a historical event can come alive with archival footage, while a music segment can be enriched with artist interviews or behind-the-scenes footage of concerts. 3. Live Sessions: A Two-way Conversation: Live radio has always been interactive, with hosts taking calls from listeners. But what if this interaction was brought to life? With live video sessions on platforms like Facebook Live or Zoom, listeners can now not only share their opinions but also see and be seen. It’s a fantastic way for radio stations to foster community, showing listeners that they’re not just passive consumers but an integral part of the conversation. Spotlight on Success: Several radio giants have already ventured into this new territory with remarkable results: A Personal Note on iKOMG’s Vision: As someone deeply passionate about broadcasting, I’ve always believed in its power to connect. That’s why at iKOMG, we’ve developed our innovative #RadioUp program. We recognize the potential in marrying radio’s auditory charm with video’s visual appeal. Our team is dedicated to helping broadcasters make this transition smoothly and effectively. We’re not just offering a service; we’re partnering in a journey to redefine radio for the modern era. To my fellow broadcasters, I understand the reservations. Traditionalists might feel that this is a departure from radio’s essence. But evolution is not about forgetting our roots; it’s about growing while staying grounded. In a world where every individual carries a screen in their pocket, it’s an opportunity we can’t afford to miss. For listeners, the merging of video and radio promises a richer, more immersive experience. It’s about feeling closer to the voices you’ve grown to love, seeing the stories they tell, and being an active participant in a community that spans the globe. In conclusion, the future of radio is exciting, and it’s unfolding right now. It promises a blend of tradition and innovation, of sound and sight. So, whether you’re a broadcaster looking to explore this new frontier or a listener eager for a richer experience, join us at iKOMG. Let’s embark on this journey together, shaping the future of broadcasting with a personal touch. “ Evolution is not about forgetting our roots; it’s about growing while staying grounded.” A Personal Touch with Radio Broadcasting iKO Media Group offers an innovative, ready to go solution for clients wishing to bring their radio services to TV screens as OTT or streamed video channels and distribute them to international audiences.