FOR-A Unveils Software-Defined, AI-Driven Future

At NAB 2026, FOR-A is set to mark a major تحول in its decades-long history, showcasing a fully software-defined, AI-powered lineup for the first time since its debut at the event in 1980.

Exhibiting at Booth #C4920, the company will present an entirely reimagined approach to live production—moving away from its traditional hardware roots toward flexible, cloud-enabled and AI-driven workflows. The booth experience will feature interactive, touchscreen-based demos across all kiosks, allowing visitors to actively explore and operate FOR-A’s solutions. Additional demonstrations will be displayed on an LED wall from partner Alfalite.

"This will be a momentous NAB for FOR-A," said FOR-A America President and COO Satoshi Kanemura. "This year's offerings demonstrate our commitment to developing the best future-facing tools that enable software-defined and AI-driven live production workflows across a range of budgets and applications. Our 9:16 real-time auto cropping and tracking AI tool can instantly unlock revenue streams with mobile phone viewers while reducing current workload and cost. AI-powered, visual-based, mix and effects creation with automatic system diagram generation enhance creativity while dramatically improving operational efficiency. We can't wait to show off what we’ve been up to."

A central highlight of the showcase is the expansion of viztrick AiDi, an on-device AI solution developed by Nippon TV and delivered globally by FOR-A. Designed for live broadcast environments, the system operates at near real-time speeds—avoiding the five-to-ten-second delays common in competing tools. Powered by GPUs from NVIDIA, the platform enables true live streaming performance.

The GoVertical! AiDi feature introduces real-time 9:16 autocropping optimized for mobile viewing, alongside object tracking capabilities that follow players and the ball during live sports. The technology is already in active use by NBC Sports, marking its first commercial deployment and signaling broader adoption across the industry.

Beyond sports, the solution is positioned for use in red-carpet events, entertainment programming, trailers, conferences, and news production—anywhere vertical video formats are in demand. Future integration with graphics solutions from ClassX is also planned, enabling enhanced visual storytelling.

Another major focus is the FOR-A IMPULSE® platform, described as a “studio in a box.” This software-defined system consolidates production tools—including switching, graphics, audio mixing, and media playback—into a unified, GPU-powered environment. Users can design workflows through an intuitive graph editor, with AI-assisted configuration and automatic system diagram generation expected in future updates. The platform is designed for on-premise use today, with cloud and hybrid capabilities planned.

FOR-A will also spotlight MixBoard®, a software-based switcher developed in collaboration with ClassX. The system enables unlimited layering and complex visual compositions, supporting a wide range of inputs including video clips, stills, and playlists. Designed for live and hybrid environments, it offers advanced transition effects and flexible production control.

In addition, the company will feature the HVS-Q12 video switcher, a compact yet powerful system supporting both 3G and 12G configurations, with extensive input/output capabilities and IP compatibility including Dante® and NDI®.

As part of its presence at the show, FOR-A will host a “FOR-A Connect” event on April 18 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The session will include the unveiling of new solutions alongside presentations from industry leaders sharing real-world production use cases.

With its 2026 showcase, FOR-A is positioning itself at the forefront of a rapidly evolving broadcast landscape—where software, AI, and flexibility are becoming central to live production.

www.for-a.com