Playback Pioneers
Celebrating the people, companies and communities defining tomorrow’s playback experience.
This isn’t just a list of names. It’s a platform for the innovators reshaping how the world watches, engages with, and experiences content – from AI-driven personalisation to next-gen infrastructure, cutting-edge UX, monetisation models, and inclusive innovation.
What is Playback Pioneers
Playback Pioneers is 5V Video’s annual flagship report – our way of celebrating the people and companies genuinely changing the way the world watches, engages with, and experiences video.
It’s a place where some of the brightest minds in the industry share the stage – from AI powered personalisation to next-gen infrastructure, breakthrough UX, new ways to monetise, and projects driving real inclusion. But it’s not just a report. It’s grown into a community that stretches beyond the page – with conversations continuing through the Playback Pioneers Podcast and at The Media & Entertainment Mixer events across Bristol, London, Lisbon, and Amsterdam.
Produced by 5V Media. Powered by 5V Video. Two sides of the same mission: spotlighting the innovators shaping where video goes next, and building the teams that get them there.
This Year
12 August – Playback Pioneers 2026 goes live. Promoted across all channels and available for download one week ahead of IBC 2026.
Each edition builds on the last. 2023 looked at the people and cultures inspiring the next generation. 2024 turned to the technology – AI personalisation, FAST channels, cloud streaming, dynamic ad insertion. 2025 widened the lens further, covering UX, monetisation, and inclusive innovation. 2026 continues that momentum.
Sponsorship – get involved in the 2026 programme
Being featured in Playback Pioneers is a great way to be recognised personally – but if your business wants to go further, there are several ways to partner with the 2026 programme, from a single ad page through to becoming our exclusive Integrated Partner across the report, podcast, and Amsterdam Mixer.
