Blackbird inks major video platform deal with A+E Networks

Cloud video platform provider Blackbird has agreed a “significant” six-figure, multi-year deal with US-based television broadcaster A+E Networks.

The AIM-traded firm said A+E Networks - a joint venture between Hearst Communications and Disney - would incorporate Blackbird within its media infrastructure for a range of key video workflows.

It said the use of Blackbird was designed to deliver “major productivity enhancements” across A+E Networks' business.

“A+E Networks has a portfolio of global brands that includes A+E, History, Lifetime, Lifetime Movies, fyi and Viceland,” the Blackbird board explained in its statement.

“The integration of Blackbird will enable A+E Networks' vast video library to be rapidly ingested and accessed in the cloud.

“Executives, producers, editors, marketers and others within A+E Networks will be able to view, edit and enrich content from anywhere, on any device.”

Blackbird said the product would “significantly accelerate” the visibility, immediacy and management of A+E Network's video archive for the repurposing of content.

Blackbird would also reportedly enable live clipping workflows, explaining that with the growth of live video aired across its portfolio, A+E Networks would be able to rapidly deliver content highlights to social media channels.

In addition, the Blackbird Review app would enable A+E Networks to review, comment and approve video content on handheld devices.

“The agreement with A+E Networks continues Blackbird's growth across North America and internationally,” the board added.

“It follows recent deals with Peloton, MSG Networks, Deltatre, IMG, NRL and TownNews.”