The French broadcaster is determined that its TF1+ streaming platform will have the scale to compete with Netflix and Disney+. It wants to be the go-to digital destination for French speakers in Europe and Africa.

Bitmovin’s Jacob Arends argues that foundational models will improve faster than legacy domain-specific models designed for narrow TV-related applications. His company is showcasing its own AI-powered solutions at NAB.

For TF1, it was time to get in front of viewers who head straight to Netflix every night and stay there. More generally, broadcasters are seeking reach, while the global streamers need local content for engagement.

Tom Morrod at Caretta Research reckons only the largest broadcasters can compete with global streamers for content and still have the money for best-in-class streaming platforms. Hearst Networks EMEA is an example of a mid-sized channel owner that has already prioritised digital partnerships over owned-and-operated.

Pay-TV operators have been discussing how they own the home screen and control the customer experience. It starts with great aggregation and content discovery, but requires important choices about how to get in front of consumers in the first place.

The new company formed by a proposed merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery will also increase streaming competition and boost cable networks.

Sky Media has launched a comprehensive effectiveness databank called Norman that has revealed the levers to pull if you want to maximise effectiveness for addressable TV campaigns. Forecasting and inflight optimisation are key benefits.

Ventura Ecosystem seeks to bring global TV operating systems and streamers into a streamlined and transparent CTV marketplace. VIDAA TV OS and Nexxen DSP/SSP are the first partners.

The smart TV brand has launched Immersive Carousel, offering brands five separate creative tiles to showcase content, products and calls to action on the home screen. ITVX and a luxury menswear brand have seen strong results.

Not surprisingly, pirate streaming services are going to weaponise AI in their battle with rights owners. Anti-piracy solutions providers are responding, but this is just one fight in the long war with pirates.