Cinemas worldwide are preparing for what is now commonly called the second wave: a technology renewal where they will install next-generation digital projection equipment. However, the journey ahead poses different considerations and challenges compared to the film-to-digital conversion of the first wave. Before we forge ahead, it’s important that we consider the old adage: To know where we’re going, we need first to know where we’ve been. So let’s take a look.
This week at CineEurope 2018, the Barco cinema joint venture Cinionic and chip designer AMD a are showcasing what the companies say are the world’s first multiplayer, augmented reality cinema lobby gaming applications aimed at creating a new social adventure in theatres and other location-based entertainment venues. The technology combines digital cinema lobby signage with multi-player augmented reality technology to create mini attractions that engage patrons in thrilling entertainment before and after the feature presentation.
Cinionic, the Barco cinema joint venture, and Southern California-based AdPoD are capitalizing on recent advancements in artificial intelligence to fuel digital conversations using advertising platforms that engage and track moviegoers in the theater lobby.
With more than 300 screens in Peru and Chile, Cineplanet is one of the most progressive theater circuits in Latin America offering first-class amenities. When it came time to outfit its new multiplex in Costanera, Chile, the exhibitor once again looked to Cinionic, the Barco cinema joint venture, and digital cinema integrator Bardan Cinema Barco.
The sales, services, and marketing teams from Cinionic – Barco’s cinema joint venture – are now brought together with Barco’s cinema manufacturing and engineering departments at one location in Kortrijk, Belgium. With a focus on automation and innovative technologies, Barco’s branewand production facility, called the Engine, is geared to create the cinema projectors of the future, both in terms of volume and technology.
After months of speculation, there is now an official name for Barco’s joint venture with Appotronix and China Film Company announced late last year: Cinionic. The company will focus on a combination of innovative cinema solutions, flexible financing and a comprehensive service model enabling exhibitors to focus on engagement with their moviegoers while simplifying their technology and operations.
