By Divya Dixit
AI, robotics and drone technology are the subject of many discussions around the globe; and the way the entertainment industry leverages these technologies is now under the limelight!
AI developments in the past year have made it possible to create movies using generative AI with just a few prompts. The entire entertainment industry is seeing a new era where robots can replace hosts, drones can manage fireworks shows and robots can conduct orchestras.
Until recently, robots weren’t capable of regular human interaction; however the MSG Sphere in Las Vegas challenged that as well. The venue has introduced an army of robots that offer directions, entertain guests and participate in conversations. In fact, the biggest name in live entertainment, Cirque du Soleil, is currently developing a new show featuring robot performers.
Drones are now also incorporated in celebrations, with cities replacing traditional fireworks with unmanned displays.
Who would’ve thought playing video games would ever become a spectator sport? Yet, it’s fast becoming one, with last year’s League of Legends World Championship racking up 6.4 million viewers at its peak.
A report by Grand View Research on sports technology trends says the smart stadium segment accounted for over 54% of the revenue share in 2023. Equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, beacon technology and interactive displays, these can deliver real-time player stats, instant replays and concession wait times. Data from Capgemini show that over 68% of fans have used a mobile device to receive regular game/player information while watching the game live, and 65% have used mobiles for 360-degree video replays. 77% of Gen Z and 75% of Millennials say they prefer to watch sports outside of venues.
AR and VR persist! Imagine attending a movie where, without 3D glasses, the movie experience becomes immersive. With AR activations, characters could seemingly walk alongside you in the theatre and action scenes could spill into your space. The boundaries between narrative and viewer are blurring.
The marketing angle is immense when viewers can scan movie posters with their smartphones to unlock exclusive content. Moviegoers can also engage with AR games, photo opportunities, or character trivia. This presents unmissable opportunities for creative and experiential directors, who can monetise digital spaces with advertising, partnerships and placements.
It has never been as exciting as today for consumers and innovators in the world of media and entertainment. As Arthur C Clark, a sci-fi author, said, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”
The author is chief growth officer, One Health Assist