At the international broadcasting equipment exhibition NAB 2026 in Las Vegas, the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) showcased groundbreaking media-specific artificial intelligence technologies aimed at enhancing content production efficiency and improving accessibility for vulnerable media groups. This event, held on April 17, 2026, marks a significant moment for innovation in the broadcasting industry.
ETRI unveiled three core technologies during the event: USD-based media transformation, automatic generation and editing of AI-based special effects (VFX), and AI-based UI and UX accessibility analysis. These advancements were developed with the support of the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Communications Commission.
The USD-based media transformation technology can analyze existing 2D media, separate objects from backgrounds, and convert them into USD-based 3D assets. This generative media format facilitates easier reproduction by machines and allows for the seamless integration of media components in metaverse environments. Through multimodal AI, this technology recognizes media details and transforms 2D coordinates into realistic 3D representations.
Another highlight is the VFX automatic generation technology, which employs generative AI to create and edit high-quality special effects. Users can input their intentions via multimodal prompts, such as text or images, and the system analyzes spatio-temporal components to deliver results. This plug-in solution aims to significantly enhance the efficiency of the VFX production process, which traditionally requires extensive time and financial investment in film and television.
The third technology focuses on AI-based UI and UX accessibility analysis. This system automatically collects and evaluates accessibility data from mobile applications, identifying challenges faced by disabled or elderly users. It also features interactive agents that suggest improvements to developers, thereby fostering more inclusive digital environments.
Curtis Legate, chairman of NAB, remarked on ETRI’s contribution, stating, “ETRI’s ‘Digital Media Innovation Technology to Understand Media with AI’ presents a solution to the digital transformation facing the global broadcasting industry.” This acknowledgment underscores the potential impact of these technologies on a sector grappling with rapid change.
Lee Tae-jin, head of ETRI’s Media Research Division, emphasized the importance of this showcase, saying, “This disclosure will promote the excellence of ETRI digital media innovation technology and contribute to leading domestic media companies to advance into the global market.” This strategic positioning hints at a future where Korean media firms may play a more prominent role on the world stage.
The unveiling of these technologies at NAB 2026 not only demonstrates ETRI’s commitment to enhancing media capabilities but also highlights a growing trend towards the integration of artificial intelligence in various sectors. As the demand for innovative media solutions continues to grow, advancements like these may redefine the landscape of broadcasting and content production, making it more efficient, accessible, and adaptable to the needs of users.
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