• SMPTE 2020 to go virtual
  • “Game On” theme looks at convergence of gaming and media
  • Awards Gala, Storytellers and conference sessions all return

SMPTE has unveiled plans to hold its 2020 technical conference and exhibition as an interactive and immersive remote experience.

SMPTE 2019

SMPTE 2019: 2020 event will go virtual after last year’s show was held in LA

The Society for Motion Picture and Television Engineers says the theme for SMPTE 2020 will be “Game On”, including a full day focused on the convergence of esports/gaming and media technology and the unique requirements of the thriving esports industry.

“By eliminating traditional barriers to participation such as travel, the cost of accommodation, and scheduling conflicts, we’re making SMPTE 2020 a broadly accessible and truly global conference,” explained SMPTE executive director Barbara Lange. “We look forward to increased participation from all SMPTE Sections around the world.”

The decision to host the event virtually comes amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, which has seen several major industry events – including IBC2020 and NAB – cancelled.

Attendees will be welcomed into an immersive environment that incorporates a main conference hub, meeting rooms for a chance to “ask the experts,” theatre space for sessions and the annual Awards Gala, and an exhibition hall with private meeting space.

SMPTE 2020 will offer flexibility in accessing technical presentations, practical hands-on training, product and technology demonstrations, peer-group discussions, virtual panels, and sponsored roundtable discussions, as well as networking events, social hours, and even trivia and esports competitions.

“While we’ll miss being able to meet in person with friends and colleagues at SMPTE 2020, we can’t help but be excited about the many ways a creatively designed and professionally architected online experience allows us to bring our community together for a world-class event,” said Sara Kudrle, SMPTE education vice president. “Attendees will know immediately that they are entering a top-notch conference experience, not just another website.”

The event will include the SMPTE Storytellers, which also featured at SMPTE 2019, expanded technical tutorials and training, and programming from SMPTE partners.

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