(1 March 2006 6:00 pm)

MUMBAI: Recognising that new media platforms is an invaluable part of today’s television industry, the Banff World Television Festival in Canada has ramped-up the programme for its lead-in, sister conference, nextMedia 2006.

The aim is to offer delegates an all-encompassing experience. nextMedia from 9 to 11 June will deliver the latest information on cutting-edge multi-platform distribution and content. This will be followed by Banff 2006 from 11 to 14 June.

Set amid the Canadian Rockies at the Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff, Alberta, this year’s nextMedia is a three-day event, featuring keynotes, international panels, best practices, case studies, as well as pitching and networking events. All these will focus on the future of digital content.

This year’s theme focusses on digital content that is seamlessly integrated into our lives and distributed across multiple media platforms. nextMedia will also offer attendees an insight into the future of television, providing an essential companion to the Banff World Television Festival.

Achilles Media CEO Robert Montgomery who is producing the event says, "nextMedia is on the pulse of emerging technologies and the future of digital content on such mobile channels as mobile internet, videophones and other handheld devices. The nextMedia/ Banff 2006 coupling is a must-attend for all television industry executives interested in staying up-to-date on such advanced media distribution platforms and their expanding markets and audiences."

nextMedia 2006, now in its second year, has bolstered its offerings to include these new highlights:

- Digital Delivery Briefings with content aggregators
- Interactive Exchange Sessions with broadcasters, CEs and TV executives
- The Digital Deli – a working lunch for content creators, where delegates learn how to repurpose and sell their content
- The Market Place – a delegate lounge with screening facilities and market kiosks.