Welcome to INTX.
Let’s get right to the first question on everyone’s mind. Why INTX? It’s simple. The acronym for “Internet & Television Expo” reflects the growing horizons of the ecosystem in which our industry now operates. Our world still prominently features content creators and distributors — but it’s expanding daily to include a wide range of other “frenemy” organizations with which we have new opportunities to both compete and collaborate.
These changes are reflected in more than 40 INTX panel sessions. We’ve expanded the sessions to include not only industry speakers, but panelists from outside our “traditional” industry, such as Sling TV, Google, AT&T, AOL Video, Tube- Mogul, T-Mobile and others.
The newly designed exhibit floor, INTX Marketplace, also demonstrates the more inclusive nature of this year’s event, with broad diagonal boulevards that invite participants to explore, talk and visit. At the intersections of these boulevards, attendees will find five content and technology showcases, displaying industry advances on TV everywhere, streaming, gaming, navigation and the Internet of Things.
From new OTT options to “skinny” bundles to multi-gigabit speeds, INTX addresses innovation across all services and product lines. Cable is achieving its vision of a connected nation, opening doors for new businesses and services, which let us challenge historical business models. And that brings new challenges both for operations and public policy — challenges that will make for stimulating conversation at INTX.
While new ideas, new people and new opportunities await at INTX, certain traditions will continue: Great content companies will still showcase what they offer; operators and distributors will still explore strategic partnerships; next-generation technologies will be on display; and we’ll welcome guests at the Chairman’s Reception and celebrate our stars at the Cable Hall of Fame and Vanguard Awards ceremonies.
Networking opportunities remain a highlight of INTX. Happy-hour sessions on the show floor will provide more chances to meet and mingle. Outside the show, Chicago offers great entertainment and dining options. To help attendees take advantage of the Windy City’s best, NCTA has booked experts to staff the “Anything & Everything” booth in the Digital Lounge. They can even help with dinner reservations.
We urge you to take full advantage of the great opportunities at INTX. It’s the one place where everyone who is part of our ever-growing and changing ecosystem can get together and talk, do business and look ahead.
Jerry Kent, chairman and CEO of Suddenlink, and Alfred Liggins, CEO of TV One, are co-chairs of INTX.
