UHD SPAIN CELEBRATES ITS FOURTH ANNIVERSARY WITH VÍCTOR SÁNCHEZ: “THE INDUSTRY IS READY FOR THE CHALLENGES”

Sánchez holds a degree in Telecommunications Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Madrid, an MBA from UNIR, and executive training in Business Management from the SEPI Foundation. His experience includes, among other achievements, the technical management of international events such as the London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2022 Olympic Games.

In addition, the current president of UHD Spain is also a member of the Technical Committee of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), where he contributes to defining the technological strategy of the sector.

Thanks to his strategic vision and leadership skills, Víctor has established himself as a key figure in the digital transformation of the audiovisual sector.

Q: You have recently taken over the presidency of UHD Spain. What are your main objectives in this new role?

A: The main objectives are shared across the entire association, focusing primarily on promoting UHD in Spain and all related technologies. We are currently in a particularly favorable moment, with UHD broadcasts beginning and significant projects being planned for its implementation. This year, we are concentrating on quality standards and the development of new projects, making this a highly promising phase with numerous challenges ahead.

Q: As Director of Operations and Media at TVE, you have led UHD broadcast projects. What technical challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

A: We have faced various challenges while working with pioneering technology. When implementing these new technologies in the market and during operations, it is crucial to address multiple aspects related to their use and deployment. We have developed a wide range of projects covering the entire workflow and broadcast process, from the FIFA World Cup in Qatar to the Olympic Games, where we completed a fully UHD production. We have implemented everything from playout systems to fully equipped studios and mobile units.

Q: TVE has been a pioneer in UHD broadcasting in Spain. What feedback have you received from the audience, and how has it influenced future productions?

A: The feedback has been very positive, as we offer better video and audio quality to viewers, resulting in a superior viewing experience. Moreover, this is an irreversible step, with more multiplexes being planned with UHD capacity and technology. TVE is increasing its resources to carry out UHD productions, and the market—including manufacturers—is aligning all its products with these capabilities. The clear trend is for production to evolve towards higher quality in both video and audio through UHD.

Q: The adoption of UHD involves changes in production and post-production. What adaptations has TVE made to its internal processes to incorporate this technology?

A: From a technological standpoint, we have implemented the necessary equipment with IP technology to transport these signals internally. Additionally, workgroups had to adapt in terms of format selection and production processes. As a broadcaster, we need the content to be available for airing relatively quickly once produced, so we have chosen HDR curves that allow for live broadcasting, as we handle both production and live news. We have adapted the entire process, from capture to broadcast, to achieve the most standardized workflow possible, avoiding quality loss and enabling efficient editing and broadcasting.

Q: Staff training is key to implementing new technologies. What initiatives has TVE undertaken to train its teams in UHD?

A: Training is conducted through the Spanish Radio and Television Institute, where we develop both general and specific training programs in collaboration with equipment manufacturers. It is a continuous training process that is constantly updated. Additionally, we participate in associations such as UHD Spain, contribute to the development of the White Paper, and take part in various industry groups to stay updated and ensure proper training.

Q: Which sectors or areas of TVE programming do you believe will benefit the most from UHD technology?

A: In reality, all sectors will benefit. Although most current implementations are in the sports area, with HDR broadcasts that include fully integrated HDR production, fiction, movies, and other types of programming are also gradually being incorporated and will eventually transition entirely to HDR.

Q: Artificial intelligence is being integrated into audiovisual production. How is TVE incorporating this technology, and what benefits do you expect?

A: We are in the early stages, having established an AI committee and proceeding cautiously. AI will be integrated into multiple production processes, such as UHD/HDR upscaling, where AI-based scalers provide better results. There are numerous processes where AI will help improve efficiency and production quality.

Q: Accessibility is essential in audiovisual content. What measures are being implemented to ensure UHD broadcasts are accessible to all audiences?

A: Just as we do with SD/HD, we maintain a strong commitment to accessibility. We use various technologies, from AI to traditional methods such as subtitles, to make our content as accessible as possible. We are conducting continuous testing and working on improvements for people with different cognitive and visual abilities, aiming to enhance the viewing experience for everyone.