Discovery Networks inks $5M deal to beef up VR skillsets in Singapore

Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific has inked a US$5 million agreement to help beef up content production in Singapore using technologies such as 4K and virtual reality (VR).

Spanning one year, the deal signed with industry regulator Info-Communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) would aim to train and co-create content with local production companies using such techniques. The resulting content then would premiere on Discovery's international network, the organisations said in a joint statement Monday.

They added that the partnership also would offer Singapore producers a global platform to showcase their content and pick up new skillsets as well as try out various content formats that run across multi-channel platforms.

As part of the agreement, a public call for entries and pitch briefs would commence next month, leading to a bootcamp for aspiring producers who would learn about Discovery's best practices for creating documentaries. Shortlisted films would premiere on Discovery's platforms as well as partnering online video operator, Viddsee.

Next year, seasoned producers would participate in a series of workshops and offer advice and tips on using advanced techniques for producing 4K content. This would lead to joint projects with Singapore production companies to co-create 4K works to be broadcast on Discovery across the region.

The content company's global crew, in 2017, also would begin training producers in the city-state to use VR technology in their storytelling.