With the development of technology, the entertainment industry has undergone monumental changes over the last 2 decades. We have seen significant change when it comes to how we consume entertainment, but we have also seen changes when it comes to the creative processes that are behind it. With the likes of digital media, artificial intelligence, and immersive technologies, the world of entertainment is more accessible, and interactive, than it ever has been before.
As you read on, we’re going to be taking a detailed look at the exact technologies that are responsible for these changes, as well as examples of how they have been put to best effect.
The Rise of Digital Media
The digital era has led to complete changes when it comes to how content is created, how it’s distributed, and how it’s consumed. It all started with a slight shift towards online platforms, but these have now become the norm, and they are driving the entertainment industry alone.
Streaming Platforms
Traditional TV has now taken a backstep, being replaced by streaming platforms. These platforms are now the go-to option for people who are seeking on-demand entertainment. Services like Netflix, Spotify, and Disney+ offer us the chance to access huge libraries of content, and all that it takes is a few clicks.
Streaming platforms make use of technologies such as adaptive streaming and AI-driven recommendations. This allows them to offer experiences that are tailored to the individual user. It has also allowed us all to access content from around the globe with geographical boundaries no longer a thing.
It’s not just film and music that has benefited from the advancements in streaming. The iGaming industry has also embraced this so that it can offer an experience that matches that found in a physical casino. Companies like Live88 excel here, by combining the streams with a social element that make the experience even more immersive.
The Economic Impact of Streaming
The move towards streaming has also had economic consequences. Companies have found that they can benefit from subscription models, and these are generating billions of pounds every year. This revenue model also encourages content creators to step up as they become keen to be the name behind the next big thing.
Advancements in Gaming
The gaming industry is another that has seen substantial benefits thanks to the advancements in technology. Online gaming has exploded in popularity over the last decade, and it’s new technologies that have contributed to this.
Cloud Gaming
Cloud gaming has had a dramatic impact when it comes to the accessibility of games. It has allowed a shift away from the processing requirements that were once needed on local devices towards cloud servers. Platforms like the Xbox are great examples of how this now works. There’s no need to go out and physically purchase a game. Instead, they are stored in the cloud and downloaded once you pay a fee.
This approach means that hardware requirements have changed. Consoles and computers no longer need to be quite so bulky as there’s no need to carry the requirements to process disks or cartridges.
Mobile Gaming Revolution
Smartphones have become one of the most popular ways to play games. As mobiles have developed, they have become more and more capable of delivering experiences that can match that of a desktop or console. Mobile play offers the chance to play on the go meaning that it is the ultimate in convenience.
The range of games is nothing short of amazing. There are casual games, such as Candy Crush, as well as complex titles such as PUBG Mobile. This shows how smartphones have now reached the stage where they can cater for all tastes and playing styles.
Something that has really taken off with mobile gaming is in-app purchases. Many games follow the freemium model. This means that you can download and play for free, but you need to pay for additional features. This approach can be seen in Fortnite where players are buying Battle Passes, skins, and other bundles. This model works well for developers who generate billions of pounds per year from it.
Immersive Technologies
Immersive technologies have allowed for whole new dimensions of entertainment to be opened up. What we have now are experiences that, only a couple of decades ago, seemed like they would always remain science fiction.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality (VR) lets you step into realistic, life-like, digital environments. This has to be one of the most transformative technologies that the entertainment industry has experienced. VR headsets, such as the Occulus Quest, have transformed not only gaming experiences, but also live events, and even education.
The levels of immersion offered by VR are unrivalled. There are opportunities for players to interact with their surroundings in real-time. There are also chances to attend virtual concerts, live events, and even experience theme park environments.
Augmented Reality
Augmented reality (AR) allows users to enjoy virtual worlds of sorts. Rather than proving a new digital setting, it enhances the real world with digital elements being overlayed. The best way to understand is by looking at games like Pokemon Go as well as Snapchat filters. These are great examples of the levels of entertainment that AR is already offering.
AR is also making its mark when it comes to live events. It offers experiences that are interactive and is seeing greater user engagement. Live casinos are also able to benefit from AR. This can be done by overlaying interactive features onto real-world tables.
Artificial Intelligence in Entertainment
Artificial intelligence (AI) is well known for assisting with content creation. However, it is also hugely useful when it comes to the entertainment industry.
Personalisation and Recommendations
AI algorithms are now playing a significant role within streaming and e-commerce. They are being used to analyse user habits, such as what’s been viewed, liked, purchased, or even looked at. Based on this information, it is then able to make recommendations that are exclusive to you. This keeps customers engaged and more likely to return.
AI also enhances the experience at online casinos. It’s able to look at player behaviour and decide what they may like to do next. This allows game suggestions to be tailored, but it also allows for a personalised approach to bonuses and promotions. This makes players feel valued and boosts retention levels. Previously, players would be left to search games endlessly and they’d all receive the same offers.
AI in Content Creation
AI is perhaps best known for the role that it is playing in content creation. It is being used for creating music, art, and stories. Whether you’re looking to create stunning art or to compose a film’s music score, AI can assist and make the process that much quicker.
While AI has many benefits in this area, it also raises some ethical considerations. It becomes difficult to know who you attribute authorship to and who even has the rights to any works. With works generated by AI becoming more common, the entertainment industry needs to provide clear guidance on where it stands on these issues.
Blockchain and NFTs
Blockchain technology is best known for being behind cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin. However, the way that offers a new approach to ownership and monetisation means that it is adding to audience engagement too.
Digital Ownership
Non-Fungible tokens (NFTs) have allowed for the concept of digital ownership. They’ve allowed creators to monetise their works in entirely new ways. The likes of artists, musicians, and game developers are now benefiting from the ability to sell exclusive digital assets.
NFTs are also a great way to create a community feel and following. They allow for a deep connection between creators and fans, as the latter own unique items that are linked to their favourite brands.
Transforming the Art and Gaming Sectors
The gaming industry has tapped into blockchain technology for in-game economies and player rewards. The best example here can be found by looking at Axie Infinity. This game allows players to earn crypto and brings a revenue stream for both users and creators.
When it comes to art, blockchain is being used to ensure provenance and authenticity. This has proven a useful way of addressing long-term concerns, such as fraud and duplication. Overall, this all leads to an increase in trust as buyers can be sure that they’re getting their hands on the real deal.
Final Thoughts
A look at the entertainment industry is one of the best ways to see the impact that technology can have. The likes of digital media and blockchain have changed the way that we consume entertainment but have also provided a host of new opportunities for the creators behind it.
Looking ahead, technology will only improve. It will further blur the lines between the real and the imaginary by providing experiences that are even more immersive. There’s no doubt that the future of the entertainment industry looks good as there is certainty that it will embrace new innovations and continue to move forward.
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