Ancast Intelligence Newsletter – Thursday, September 18, 2025

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This week in AI, technology, and broadcasting has been marked by significant developments that underscore the dynamic nature of these industries. From traditional TV viewership gains due to college football to innovative product launches like the Roku TV smart projector, the landscape continues to evolve. Additionally, major job cuts at Sky and the expansion of HBO Max into new markets in the Asia Pacific region highlight strategic shifts and growth in streaming services. These events not only reflect current market trends but also set the stage for future industry trajectories.

INDUSTRY NEWS
Prime Video introduces alternate UEFA Champions League feed for broadcast innovations
The alternate feed will evolve throughout the current season, incorporating AI-powered innovations that promise to bring unprecedented features and insights to sports broadcasting.
Roku TV smart projector launches in US – Roku has expanded its product line with the launch of the Aurzen Roku TV Smart Projector D1R Cube in the US. This device offers 1080p Full HD resolution and is tailored for both indoor and outdoor use, promising to enhance the home entertainment experience.
Sky to cut a further 600 jobs – In a significant restructuring move, Sky plans to eliminate 600 jobs in the UK. This decision is part of a strategy to pivot more towards streaming services, following a series of product launches. The total impact will be felt by approximately 900 employees.
Alliance for Open Media set to release AV2 by end of 2025
AV2 promises to provide enhanced support for AR/VR applications, split-screen delivery of multiple programs, and improved handling of screen content. This development is poised to set new standards in media consumption and content delivery across various platforms.

TECHNOLOGY UPDATES
Data: Long-term R&D investment paying off in Wales
Media Cymru’s campaign “Fuelling the Future” has highlighted significant outcomes from investments in research, development, and innovation in Wales. These initiatives have substantially boosted productivity and technological advancements in the region.
Inscape Working With Locality to Provide Viewing Data Across National and Local Linear TV and Streaming
This collaboration will enable brands to better measure the incremental reach of their advertising campaigns across various platforms.
IBC2025 attendee numbers down, but organisers see more engagement with next-generation
Despite lower attendance, IBC2025 showcased a more dynamic and inclusive event, focusing on next-generation technologies and strategies.

MARKET TRENDS
Opinion: Deal-a-vision 2025: all-of-the-above or all-in on aggregators
Paul Pastor discusses the strategic implications of broadcasters adopting a comprehensive approach to content aggregation, suggesting that flexibility and collaboration could be key to success in the evolving media landscape.
Coalition for Innovative Media Measurement Combines With The Attention Council
This merger aims to enhance the study of attention metrics in media and advertising, a critical area as brands seek more effective engagement strategies.
Paramount Skydance/Warner Bros Discovery deal could ‘redefine the streaming landscape’
This major partnership is expected to significantly impact the streaming industry, potentially mirroring traditional TV market structures and competitive dynamics.

LOOKING AHEAD
As we look to the future, the intersection of traditional broadcasting and streaming continues to be an area of rapid evolution and intense competition. The expansion of services like HBO Max into new international markets and strategic reorganizations such as those at Sky reflect a global industry in transition. Meanwhile, technological innovations like the Roku smart projector are set to redefine home entertainment, blending traditional content consumption with advanced technology. These developments not only reflect the current state of the market but also hint at the future direction of the broadcasting and technology industries. As companies adapt to these changes, we can expect to see further innovations and strategic shifts designed to capture and retain viewer engagement in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.

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