The why should I care version: this is an added layer of security and platform integrity that moves broadcast services in the right direction. The end point is displays in the home, automotive, and enterprise that can, given the right platform, leverage the pipeline to enhance services and quality.
Sinclair Broadcast Group has announced that it will construct and manage a broadcast platform that uses NextGen broadcast (ATSC 3.0) network technology to provide commercial services and solutions for national data distribution. The platform is intended to provide a wireless broadcast backbone for IP (internet protocol) data distribution across the country, increasing spectrum value for all broadcasters and providing an IP connection to better serve communities. The network will allow data distribution companies to use a cost-effective supplement to perform data off-loading from traditional unicast cellular service, as well as permitting the distribution of large-scale software updates and advanced emergency information.
Sinclair has established several joint ventures and strategic relationships with key technology partners in the US, Korea, and India, including a joint venture with SK Telecom and Saankhya Labs, which will contribute to the broadcast Core Network and provide wireless technology to the new data distribution as a service (DDaaS) platform. The sophisticated NextGen wireless backbone will include new cloud technologies such as SD-WAN and AI orchestration, enabling broadcasters to dynamically match available spectrum capacity with users’ data needs. This data platform can scale across various spectrum-enabled businesses, including automotive services, aircraft/drone connectivity, first responder missions, and distance learning solutions. By 2024, Sinclair expects the use of the platform to increase from local and regional services available in some markets now to nationwide services.
