CBS Stations has been trumpeting the use of its augmented reality and virtual reality-driven studio technology across many of its broadcast television properties, including KPIX-5 in San Francisco and KCBS-2 and KCAL-9 in Los Angeles.
Now, the Paramount unit has brought its AR/VR newscast advancements to Baltimore, and will put them to the task come Monday.
For WJZ-13 in Baltimore, use of the AR/VR technology brings viewers something they’ve not yet seen on newscasts across the region.
At first, local newscasts under the “CBS Baltimore” banner will see enhanced weather and sports programming.
“The launch of our AR/VR studio marks the beginning of an exciting new era for CBS Baltimore and how we serve our viewers,” said Tanya Black, WJZ-TV’s VP/News Director. “This technology allows us to meet our audience where they are and bring them closer to the stories that matter most.”
The weather coverage will use what CBS calls “immersive, hyper-local visuals,” allowing viewers to see and understand the real-world impact of conditions like flooding, snowfall differences and shifting microclimates.
The AR/VR sports coverage “opens the door to more dynamic sports analysis and visual storytelling,” CBS Baltimore says.
WJZ President/GM Kathy Hosteller commented, “By combining trusted local journalism with innovative technology, we’re creating more immersive and engaging ways to help our community understand the stories that impact their daily lives, from severe weather to the sports teams they love,” said Kathy Hostetter, president and general manager of CBS Baltimore. “We’re proud to help move the region forward with storytelling that is as dynamic as Baltimore itself.”
The launch of the AR/VR system in Baltimore follows the implementation of similar platforms in New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Denver, Dallas-Fort Worth, Miami and Atlanta. Additional AR/VR studios are expected to launch in other markets this year.
