Springwatch Engages Viewers With Pixel Power

Pixel Power, a leading supplier of broadcast graphics systems, has announced that its technology has been used by the BBC's Springwatch show to enhance interactivity by providing viewers with onscreen photo opportunities, combining Flickr with Pixel Power Clarity technology.
This follows on from the supply of creative services from the company for Autumnwatch last year.
By bringing together user-generated content via Flickr and traditional broadcast output those watching can benefit from a richer experience, creating both a lean-forward and lean-back experience.
For Autumnwatch - with a similar system deployed for Springwatch - the BBC worked with Pixel Power to allow viewers to upload photos that they had taken of local wildlife and to bring those easily to air while maintaining editorial control. As well as being used during the live shows viewers can use the interactive BBC Red Button to see images shown during the show as well as other viewer submitted images.
Pixel Power, in conjunction with Stephen Mills of BG+C, a long-time third party Pixel Power application developer, created the system.
An automated application was built that downloaded viewer-supplied images, along with associated metadata, from several Flickr pages, collated them then presented them so that they could be approved editorially. The system also checked that images were within aspect ratio boundaries and therefore suitable to air. They were then published to the Pixel Power Clarity unit for broadcast allowing viewers to share their natural world experiences and to feel the thrill of being part of the show.
James Gilbert, Joint MD, Pixel Power, said: "Creative services is a growing part of our business. By using our expertise broadcasters can deploy more complex and innovative solutions cost-effectively, leaving them to concentrate on what they do best. Creating a richer viewer experience, as is the case with both Autumnwatch and Springwatch is beneficial for everyone."
(KMcA)