MGETIF 2005: TV Tech Given A Roasting In The Dragon’s Den

The Edinburgh International TV Festival was given a roasting on Saturday by international businessman and star of BBC Two’s Dragon’s Den, Doug Richard, who claimed the industry was lacking in its approach to new technology.

The outspoken American admitted his lack of knowledge concerning the workings of the television industry, but said that his 20 years of computing experience left him dismayed at the slow response by broadcasters towards emerging technology.

“Either everybody already knows what’s coming, or no-one is interested!” Exclaimed the 46 year old Californian, who had expected a raft of technology demonstrations, but was left disappointed by the Festival’s high-tech offerings.

Richard, founder and chairman of data services firm Library House, warned delegates watching a Dragon’s Den-themed presentation that there were radical changes on the horizon, both in broadcast technology, and the companies seeking to exploit it.

“If you follow the money then there are lots of firms acquiring technology companies when they never have before,” he explained.

“News Corp is looking to buy Blinkx, a video search engine, for $4 billion cash. For a firm which has yet to make a nickel, that’s a pretty good markup! When News Corp becomes a buyer of technology, then something is definitely shifting.”

Richard’s comments echo those of Channel 4 chief executive, Andy Duncan, who set out his vision for the broadcaster’s high-tech future earlier on in the conference.

“I think broadband is exciting, but mobile is the one area that no-one has thought right through yet. Look at the figures – more than one mobile phone per head. I think Channel 4 has a big part to play there.”

Edinburgh International TV Festival: www.mgeitf.co.uk