As the votes roll in on election night 2024, NBC News will deliver its results with a groundbreaking blend of virtual technology and real-time data, transforming familiar settings like Rockefeller Plaza and the White House grounds into immersive backdrops. This cutting-edge approach is powered by a sophisticated production infrastructure designed to enhance storytelling and engage viewers across NBC’s platforms.
A Virtual Makeover for Iconic Spaces
NBC News has reimagined its coverage setup by integrating advanced virtual production technology into its Manhattan studios. Key highlights include:
- Studio 4E at Rockefeller Plaza: Updated with extended presentation areas, LED displays, and a virtual set extension that replicates the iconic Rockefeller Plaza. Election results will dynamically appear on the building facade, creating an engaging visual narrative.
- MSNBC’s Studio 3A: Featuring a virtual set extension depicting the White House grounds, this studio adds gravitas to the network’s in-depth analysis.
The virtual environments are created using Unreal Engine and Vizrt technology, which enable real-time rendering of photorealistic settings, synchronized seamlessly with traditional video wall graphics.
Data at the Core: The Sync Control System
At the heart of NBC’s election coverage is Sync, a proprietary, web-based control system developed in-house by the NBC News Creative & Production team. Key features of Sync include:
- Centralized Data Aggregation: Sync processes real-time information from multiple data sources and APIs, enabling rapid updates on vote counts, exit polls, and key results.
- Cross-Network Consistency: The system manages over 90 graphics engines, ensuring uniform visual presentations across NBC News, MSNBC, CNBC, Telemundo, Sky News, and NBC News Now.
- Editorial Flexibility: Producers can customize templates, organize data, and save presets, allowing for dynamic and responsive coverage.
- Remote Accessibility: Sync’s web-based design supports remote operation, ensuring redundancy and minimizing disruptions.
Initially developed for CNBC’s redesign in 2023, Sync has been adapted to handle the complex demands of election night.
Comprehensive Multiplatform Coverage
NBCUniversal’s election night coverage will span traditional and digital platforms:
- Broadcast and Streaming: NBC’s networks will deliver 24 hours of live election programming, with NBC News Now offering 40 hours of continuous coverage.
- Digital Platforms: NBCNews.com and the NBC News app will provide up-to-the-minute results, exit poll data, and analysis.
- Peacock Streaming: For the first time, Peacock will extend its multiview feature to election coverage, allowing viewers to simultaneously access breaking news, data analysis, and a balance-of-power map.
This multiplatform approach leverages NBC’s advanced infrastructure to ensure timely and accurate reporting across all viewer touchpoints.
Technical Innovation Meets Storytelling
NBC News’ election coverage reflects a significant shift in how technology enhances live reporting. The integration of virtual sets and automated systems allows the network to:
- Create visually stunning, immersive environments for viewers.
- Handle complex data streams with precision and speed.
- Seamlessly distribute content across broadcast, streaming, and digital platforms.
“These technologies enable us to tell the election story in ways that were previously unimaginable,” said NBC News’ production team. “From virtual environments to real-time data integration, this is a new era of election night coverage.”
A Nationwide Effort
More than 100 journalists stationed across the U.S. will contribute to NBC’s election night coverage, providing real-time updates, analysis, and insights. Combined with the advanced production technology, their work ensures viewers receive comprehensive and engaging reporting.
NBC News is redefining election night coverage with its innovative use of virtual production technology, real-time data integration, and a proprietary control system. By blending familiar visuals with cutting-edge tools, NBC aims to deliver an unmatched viewing experience that keeps audiences informed and engaged across all platforms.
