Symposium Programme

The two-day agenda covered presentations from leading industry figures, panel discussions on HbbTV deployment across Europe, and deep-dive technical sessions. Speakers included David Uhlmann (Google), Pier Paolo Cervi (Mediaset), Alberto Sigismondi (Tivu), Matt Poole (ITV), Jon Piesing (TP Vision), Miggi Zwicklbauer (Fraunhofer), Nigel Megitt (BBC), and many others.

The annual HbbTV Symposium brings together the brightest minds in hybrid broadcast and broadband television for two days of forward-looking discussion. Set against the backdrop of Rome, the event has established itself as a key gathering for industry professionals who shape the future of connected viewing experiences. Delegates from across Europe and beyond converge to exchange ideas, explore emerging standards, and examine how the convergence of traditional broadcasting with internet-delivered content continues to redefine audience expectations and service delivery models alike.

Hybrid television stands at the intersection of linear broadcast reliability and the interactive richness of broadband connectivity. The Symposium programme delves into the technical and strategic dimensions of this convergence, addressing topics such as application discovery, user interface design, and the evolving role of standards in harmonising services across diverse device ecosystems. Attendees gain insight into how broadcasters and platform operators are navigating the shift toward more personalised, on-demand, and data-enhanced viewing while maintaining the robustness that audiences have trusted for decades.

A carefully curated speaker roster features voices from leading broadcasters, technology innovators, and research institutions. These contributors share practical case studies and forward-looking perspectives on the challenges facing the hybrid television landscape. From audience measurement and addressable advertising to accessibility and content discovery, the presentations reflect a comprehensive understanding of the ecosystem. The format encourages candid dialogue between the stage and the floor, fostering an atmosphere where strategic questions can be explored with nuance and depth.

Beyond the formal agenda, the Symposium creates space for informal exchange and relationship building. Coffee breaks, networking lunches, and an evening reception allow delegates to continue conversations sparked during sessions and to forge connections that extend well beyond the event itself. This social dimension has long been recognised as one of the most valuable aspects of the gathering, enabling partnerships, collaborations, and friendships that strengthen the professional fabric of the hybrid television community across organisational and national boundaries.

The event also celebrates excellence through its awards programme, which recognises outstanding contributions to the advancement of hybrid television technology and user experience. Categories span innovation in service delivery, standout application design, and meaningful improvements in accessibility and inclusivity. The awards serve not only as a mark of distinction for recipients but also as a showcase of best practice for the wider industry, highlighting work that pushes the boundaries of what connected television can achieve.

Rome provides a fitting host city for an event dedicated to the fusion of heritage and innovation. Its layered history, architectural grandeur, and vibrant cultural life offer delegates an inspiring setting in which to consider the future of media. The venue itself is chosen to facilitate both focused discussion and relaxed interaction, with comfortable spaces that accommodate plenary sessions, breakout conversations, and quiet moments of reflection between a packed schedule of talks and panel discussions.

The Symposium is organised with the support of an engaged community of sponsors and partners drawn from across the broadcast and technology sectors. Their involvement reflects a shared commitment to advancing the hybrid television ecosystem and ensuring that the event remains accessible to a broad cross-section of the industry. Partnership opportunities are structured to encourage meaningful visibility and participation, contributing to a collaborative atmosphere that distinguishes the gathering from purely commercial trade shows.

Registration for the event is designed to be straightforward, with clear information about ticket categories, early booking incentives, and group rates made available well in advance. The organisers place a strong emphasis on hospitality and attendee experience, ensuring that practical details such as venue access, accommodation guidance, and schedule updates are communicated clearly. This attention to the delegate journey reflects a broader ethos of thoughtful curation that runs through every aspect of the Symposium.

Looking ahead, the Symposium continues to evolve its programme in response to the shifting dynamics of the media landscape. Topics such as the integration of artificial intelligence in content personalisation, the role of data privacy in connected services, and the emergence of new distribution paradigms are expected to feature prominently in future editions. The event remains committed to providing a platform where the technical, creative, and strategic dimensions of hybrid television can be examined with rigour, openness, and a spirit of shared inquiry.