Releasing 4.2: Show-based graphics rundowns

Version 4.2 introduces new features that make managing and executing Playout Episodes more efficient. Below is a breakdown of these key tools and how they improve your production workflow.

Playout Episodes: Visual Compositions and Show-based graphics

The latest updates to Playout Episodes enhance precision for every broadcast show, delivering smoother and more organized productions. Key features include:

Organized show-based Rundown Episodes with Visual Compositions

Structure rundowns by creating Visual Compositions to match each program’s flow. Compositions enable you to select specific graphic settings for every show situation.

The Live graphics you add to the rundown are now contained in the specific live show (connected to the VRA scheduling). This means that they won't bother the rundowns of other shows and that they are still available as-is the next time the program is live. With the new archival flow graphics can be disposable after playback, this means that your episode is cleaned up the next time the program is live.

Playout items can now also be setup with a duration to automatically transition out after a specified time.

New Variable Options

Expanded variable settings for your graphics to provide flexible options to customize playouts for different program formats, helping you adapt content dynamically for specific audiences.

• Drag-and-Drop Media Replacement: Easily update visuals during a broadcast by dragging and dropping images or videos directly into the playout interface. This quick replacement feature is perfect for live productions or last-minute content changes.

• Video Upload Queue: Manage multiple video uploads with a queue system that lets you still work on other graphics while content is being uploaded.

• Dynamic Text Controls with Textarea Fields: Gain greater control over on-screen text by utilizing textarea fields instead of text fields. This is ideal for adding live comments, breaking news, or quick on-screen changes during a broadcast.

• Toggle Input Elements: Control specific elements within the playout with toggle inputs, allowing for easy activation or deactivation without navigating through multiple settings.

With the all new Visual Radio Graphics Playout we are able to deliver a full broadcast-ready radio-focussed playout to support your individual liveshow requirements.

Additional Updates in version 4.2

Beyond the new Playout Episode enhancements, version 4.2 introduces several other valuable automation tools and integrations to support your visual radio workflow.

Expanded Layer Options in Visual Designer

The Visual Designer now includes new layer options to give broadcasters even greater creative freedom:

• Stack Layer and auto-width/height control: let the VRA Visuals do the hard work of automatically sizing boxes/blocks of information. With techniques you may recognize from the CSS world you can let texts automatically size the box they are contained in, without the need to code!

• Playlist Layer: create a list of items that should be rotated in the Visual, with automated in-out animations.

• Easy Real-Time API Data Layer Integration: Display live data coming from your API, RSS feed or another external data source in one click. The Playlist Layer is able to automatically follow your data structure to loop over your news articles or social posts.

• Image Slideshow Layer: Add rotating image sequences within your broadcast for added visual interest and variety.

Organize with Station Tags

Station Tags make it easy to categorize and organize assets like outputs, visuals, and images across various programs or channels. This tool is especially useful for studios handling diverse content needs, ensuring quick access and efficient management of media files.

New Radio Automation Integrations

New integrations in version 4.2 increase compatibility with popular radio automation playouts, improving synchronization and workflow efficiency:

• AerOn Sync: Keep your video playout in lip-sync with AerOn Studio. Output Players now fully synchronize with AerOn data to automate video playback.

• RCS Zetta Integration: VRA now supports RCS Zetta data and video playback, making it easier for stations using Zetta to streamline workflows.

• Additional API Routes: Developers can access new API routes, providing more control and customization options within VRA for automation and third-party integrations: https://docs.visualradioassist.live/develop-with-vra/core-control-api

  
  

Start Using Visual Radio Assist 4.2 Today

With the expanded Playout Episode Management and additional enhancements, version 4.2 is packed with tools designed to give broadcasters refined control and creative flexibility. Dive into these updates, and experience how they can optimize your broadcast operations.

We’re interested in your experience with release 4.2! Feel free to share feedback or reach out with questions.