All posts by Neel Achary

LAS VEGAS, Apr 17 – Sony Electronics will return to NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) Show 2026, a leading event for the media and entertainment industry. From April 19-22, the company will be in booth #C8401 in Las Vegas focusing on live production, news production, imaging, and virtual production, demonstrating the latest technologies designed to address emerging challenges and needs in broadcast and production. 

“At this year’s NAB Show, Sony’s theme is ‘The Power Behind Your Story’ which demonstrates how our technologies are the driving force behind various forms of storytelling,” said Anthony Kable, CCS Group Manager, Sony Australia. “From products to workflows, and acquisition to delivery, Sony has the right people, tools and expertise to enable creators to capture their vision and communicate their truth with quality and authenticity.”

The media and entertainment landscape is changing, and Sony is debuting solutions through the entire production workflow that provide authenticity and provenance, create more personalized and emotional viewing experiences, and support XR and spatial content creation.

At the Sony booth, visitors will experience live production solutions including the evolution of Sony’s “Networked Live” ecosystem, as well as new system cameras offering exceptional image quality and system scalability, enhanced workflows for news production that enable fast and highly reliable reporting, the latest in Virtual Production tools and processes, and a comprehensive lineup of imaging solutions. The company will also showcase XYN™ (/Zin/)’s “spatial capture solution.” 

Additionally, Sony will host many engaging presentations and talks on trending topics throughout the show featuring notable industry voices. For more details about the company’s presence, please visit Sony’s NAB Show website. 

Key Exhibits and Technology Highlights

Scalable, Flexible, and Simplified Live Production

Sony will present its new “R Series” system camera lineup, which builds on the strengths of the existing HDC-5000 and HDC-3000 series while significantly enhancing image performance, system expandability through additional transmission pathways and infrastructure options, and usability that enables consistent color matching across models. Additionally, the new series will address challenging lighting conditions by offering an expanded dynamic range for enhanced details, and operation modes to address different lighting environments. Models include HDC-5500R, HDC-5500RV, HDC-3500R, HDC-3500RV, and HDC-3200R, along with related products such as the HDCU-3500R Camera Control Unit and the HKCU-LUT35 3D LUT option board. The models are planned to be available in mid-2026.

Sony will also demonstrate newly released firmware updates for the PTZ auto-framing cameras BRC-AM7 (Ver. 3.0), SRG-A40, and SRG-A12 (Ver. 4.0). Leveraging Sony’s latest AI technologies, these updates expand functionality to support increasingly diverse production needs, including sports broadcasting, education, and corporate content creation. 

Sony will exhibit MOXELA, a new software-based media processing platform running on COTS (commercial off the shelf) servers or in the cloud, designed to transform how broadcasters, production companies, and media organizations transport, process, and monitor live video, audio, and data.

Additionally, attendees will see demonstrations of new features for the MLS-X1 multi-format switcher, enabling efficient production by sharing input and output signals across multiple studios. Sony will also debut the ICP-X7000A, a control panel featuring a newly developed XPT operation panel that significantly improves visibility and operability and is planned to be available in late 2026.

Smarter, Faster, and More Secure News Production Workflows

For the first time at NAB Show, Sony’s recently launched PXW-Z300 XDCAM handheld AI-powered camcorder – the world’s first[1]to support the C2PA[2] standard for video authenticity[3] – will demonstrate the growing demand for trustworthy news reporting through authenticity and provenance.

Sony continues to propose a range of workflows through partner collaboration. At NAB Show, the company will present an end-to-end workflow that leverages camera-originated authenticity files and metadata from the field through immediate production and editing. This workflow is achieved with the LiveU TX1, a compact IP bonding-capable data transmitter (announced in September 2025), the PDT-FP1 portable data transmitter, and the newly announced PWA-RXS Network RX Station. 

In addition, LiveU has announced a further expansion of its integration with Sony’s PWA-RXS through an optional license. A reference demo will showcase a new workflow powered by Sony’s cellular connectivity management system, featuring real-time carrier optimization and seamless global connectivity for creators.

 Imaging Innovations without Limits

Sony’s comprehensive lineup of Alpha™ cameras and lenses continues to expand, empowering creators at every level of production. Launched in late 2025, the Alpha 7 V capable of 4K 60p capture without crop[4] will be making its first appearance at NAB Show. The 33 MP (approx.) full-frame hybrid model incorporates a BIONZ XR2^TM processor with an integrated AI processing engine to facilitate subject recognition and Auto Framing. Additionally, the latest version (Ver. 2.6) of the Monitor & Control app, which enables video monitoring and remote control from smartphones, tablets, and Macs, will be showcased.

Sony’s diverse Cinema Line cameras will enhance their functionality. The FR7 cinematic PTZ camera recently added AI-based Auto Framing and support for OpenTrackIO protocol through a Ver. 4.0 firmware update, while the FX6 full-frame Cinema Line camera rolled out BIG 6 home screen display support for easy access to top functions.

Additionally, experience spatial content creation brought to life through the VENICE Extension System Mini (Rialto) combined with the glasses-free 3D Spatial Reality Display.

The Growth of Virtual Production and Spatial Content Creation

As a technology manufacturer, Sony offers a robust and inclusive ecosystem of Virtual Production solutions, from cameras and camera tracking to LED walls and purpose-built software that support creativity and streamline production processes. Firmware updates and the addition of new tools and enhancements, such as Sony’s Virtual Production Tool Set Ver. 3.0, continue to elevate visual storytelling capabilities.

Sony will launch the XYN Spatial Capture Solution, which generates photorealistic 3DCG (3D Computer Graphics) assets from photographs taken with mirrorless cameras. This professional solution, which will be shown at NAB Show and is expected to be available mid-2026, is comprised of three tools designed for use across virtual production and a wide range of 3DCG content creation workflows. XYN Spatial Scan Navi is a smartphone app[5] that guides efficient image capture. XYN Spatial Scan is a web application that delivers studio-grade generation quality. Finally, the XYN Renderer Plugin, enables highly realistic rendering for virtual production studios.

Apr 17 (BNP): LPG demand has shown signs of moderation, with daily bookings falling to around 46–50 lakh, while supply conditions remain normal, according to the government.

Officials said the decline in bookings reflects temporary fluctuations in consumption patterns, but there is no disruption in availability or distribution across the country.

The government clarified that LPG supply continues to be stable and adequately meets domestic demand, ensuring uninterrupted access for consumers.

Authorities added that the supply chain remains well-managed, and there is no cause for concern regarding shortages or logistical issues.

Overall, the situation indicates a mild softening in demand, while the LPG distribution system continues to function smoothly nationwide.

Apr 17 (BNP): Uttar Pradesh’s hockey programme has recorded a notable rise in performance, winning 21 medals in recent competitions and highlighting the growing strength of grassroots development in the sport.

The steady improvement reflects better training infrastructure, talent identification, and increased focus on nurturing young players at the state level.

Officials and coaches said the progress demonstrates how structured development programs are helping smaller centres emerge as key contributors to India’s hockey talent pool.

The results are also seen as a positive sign for Indian hockey’s long-term future, as more states invest in grassroots coaching and competitive exposure for young athletes.

Apr 17 (BNP): Silver prices rose sharply in futures trade on Friday, tracking positive global cues and improved investor sentiment.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange, silver for May delivery climbed ₹3,371, or 1.36 per cent, to ₹2,51,999 per kilogram.

The rise in prices was supported by a weaker US dollar and easing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which boosted demand for safe-haven assets in global markets.

Analysts said the metal also gained strength from supportive international trends, as investors reacted to a softer dollar and improving risk sentiment across commodities.

Apr 17 (BNP): India’s current account deficit (CAD) is expected to widen to around 2 per cent of GDP in FY27, even if crude oil prices remain in the range of USD 82–87 per barrel, according to a report by Crisil.

The report noted that external pressures on the trade balance are likely to persist, driven by steady import demand and global economic factors. While stable oil prices may offer some relief, they are unlikely to fully offset the broader structural challenges impacting the current account.

Crisil said that rising domestic demand and continued dependence on imports, particularly in energy, could contribute to the widening deficit.

However, the report also indicated that strong services exports and remittance inflows are expected to provide some cushion, helping manage the overall impact on the external sector.

Overall, India’s external position is expected to remain manageable, though the widening deficit highlights the need for continued focus on export growth and reducing import dependence over the medium term.

The University of Delaware, Exelon Corporation/Delmarva Power and collaborators have released a new report showing that electric vehicles equipped with vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology can be profitable for private owners and businesses alike, with data from real electricity markets to back up the claims.

The report is the outcome of a pilot program announced in 2024 by UD, and completed at the offices of Delmarva Power, which is part of Exelon Corporation, to confirm the value of V2G services to the grid. 

Among the key findings: the collaborators report that a V2G-enabled passenger electric vehicle (EV) could earn as much as $3,359 per year, based on 2021-2025 market prices, for storing and supplying energy to the electric grid during times of need, otherwise known as providing grid services. Heavier vehicles, such as fleet vehicles, delivery trucks or school buses, could earn over $9,000 per year, per vehicle. 

That’s a powerful income generator, given that privately owned vehicles are parked 96% of the time, on average, in the United States. Company fleet vehicles — even those operating 40 hours per week remain stationary 75% of the average work week.

The pilot, which included collaborators Ford Motor Company, the region’s electric grid operator PJM Interconnection, and aggregator Nuvve Corp., was tested using a small fleet of Delmarva Power EVs retrofitted with the bidirectional charging technology and a new advanced communications standard. 

The term “bidirectional charging” means that the V2G technology enables electric vehicle batteries to store extra energy from the electric grid when there is a surplus and to discharge that energy back to the grid when it is needed. In this way, V2G-enabled EVs can help the grid stay balanced, strengthening grid resilience and reliability, especially during peak demand and extreme weather events. New PJM rules allow properly certified EVs to provide this balancing and be paid for it and the pilot proved they can meet these requirements and be paid for the service.

For UD Professor Willett Kempton, who invented the V2G technology with colleagues at the University nearly 30 years ago, it’s a pivotal moment. 

“Whether it could scale cost-effectively was an open question, and we’ve proven that it can with the right combination of policies, standards and technology,” said Kempton, professor of marine science and policy. 

For businesses such as Exelon, the report makes clear that V2G technology can help offset the cost of fleet electric vehicles while supporting the electric grid. This is because when the batteries in the parked fleet vehicles are aggregated together, they can function as a virtual power plant. The result is energy storage and supply that is available to the electric grid significantly faster than other conventional power resources, with virtually no wait times needed to power up or down. 

Unlocking a parked vehicle’s earning power

Since Kempton and colleagues pioneered the innovative V2G technology, UD researchers have kept the charge going, accelerating progress on everything from V2G technology development to new automotive communication standards (called LIN-CP) for electric cars. They have advanced policy innovations at the state and federal level to overcome barriers in widespread adoption by enabling V2G technology to compete in electric markets, too.

The recent pilot with Exelon/Delmarva Power and others also revealed that the EV batteries used for V2G remained fully functional after a full year of market operation — with no measured reduction in battery health all while providing pollution-free power.

“Something that might not be obvious to everyone is that these payments are not a subsidy; these EVs are earning money by competing with legacy generators, which is novel in a lot of ways,” said Kempton. “And when you’re participating in the market instead of a fuel-burning generator, you’re also reducing pollution.”

This makes the technology both economically smart and functionally sound in a world where the electric grid is expected to include more renewables in the coming years. 

Kempton explained that most U.S. planned future electricity generation is scheduled to come from wind and solar. This will create greater fluctuation in the electric grid, which means more storage for energy surpluses will be needed. That’s where V2G can help, Kempton said. 

According to Brian Derr, senior analyst, Exelon Technology and R&D, insights from the pilot will inform future deployments and support the company’s broader strategy to enable the clean energy transition while maintaining reliable service for the communities it serves.

“By leveraging existing assets in new ways, Exelon is positioning itself to build a more flexible, resilient and customer-focused energy system,” said Derr.

Accelerating progress toward a V2G industry

Next steps to expand the V2G industry to support the grid will require mass manufacturing to scale up the number of individual cars or fleets that are participating and earning money, Kempton said. 

Until now, changes to V2G-enabled vehicles have been done by retrofitting existing EVs to accommodate the V2G technology. Now with lower-cost standards and realistic market revenue values that can be expected, Kempton is looking at how this becomes adopted in many cars and many charging stations.

“We’ll need at least a few car companies and charging station companies to mass produce this V2G equipment, and to deploy the technology into vehicles in the factory,” Kempton said. “If it is designed in, and mass produced, it’s incredibly cheap, especially when you compare it to the potential yearly revenue.”

At UD, faculty and students continue to play a large role in the work aimed at bringing a fully functioning V2G industry to fruition. Kempton, Rodney McGee and recent graduates John Metz and Catherine Gilman, for example, are focused on policy changes and standards to allow V2G-enabled electric vehicles to provide grid services in more states. Such policies currently exist in Delaware and Maryland. Kempton would like to see this number grow.

Meanwhile, UD postdoctoral researcher Garrett Ejzak and alumnus Go Charan Kilaru are focused on other aspects of the work. Ejzak is developing and testing these new EV technologies, and Kilaru is designing cryptography measures to ensure security protocols for V2G communications. Concurrently, UD students Colden Rother, Jude Borden, Lucia Paye-Layleh and Emmie Rossi are examining ways UD could electrify some of its campus fleets, under the advisement of UD’s Kimberly Oremus, associate professor of marine science and policy, economics, and public policy and administration.

Apr 17 (BNP): India has significantly strengthened its position in the US smartphone supply chain, capturing around 40 per cent share and emerging as a major manufacturing hub, according to a recent report.

The shift reflects a broader realignment in global supply chains, with companies diversifying production away from China and increasingly turning to India for manufacturing and exports.

The report highlighted that India’s growing role is supported by government initiatives, improved infrastructure, and rising investments in electronics manufacturing.

This transition marks a notable change in global sourcing strategies, as companies seek more resilient and diversified supply chains amid geopolitical and economic considerations.

Industry experts believe that India’s expanding manufacturing ecosystem and policy support will continue to drive its growth as a preferred destination for smartphone production and exports.