SMPTE Opens Registration For 2026 Media Technology Summit

SMPTE has opened early registration for its 2026 Media Technology Summit (MTS), while also unveiling the first details of this year's conference programme, including the launch of a new executive-focused Media Tech Business Forum.

The annual event will take place from 16-19 November 2026 in Pasadena, California, bringing together engineers, technologists, business leaders and media executives to discuss the technologies and market trends shaping the future of the industry. Early registration pricing will be available until 31 August.

The four-day programme will feature peer-reviewed technical papers, keynote presentations and panel discussions covering topics including artificial intelligence, sustainable media workflows and emerging applications of media technology.

"The Media Technology Summit is more than a technical conference," said SMPTE Executive Director Sally-Ann D’Amato. "It's where our industry comes together to exchange ideas, build relationships, and move media technology forward. This year's program spans everything from AI and sustainable media workflows to the role of media technology in adjacent fields such as space exploration, giving attendees a unique perspective on where our industry is headed."

Among the keynote sessions will be a presentation from NASA astronaut Donald R. Pettit, who will discuss imagery captured aboard the International Space Station. His presentation will be followed by a panel examining the Artemis II mission and the future of imaging beyond low Earth orbit.

Making its debut at this year's summit, the SMPTE Media Tech Business Forum will open the conference on 16 November with a programme focused on market intelligence, business strategy and executive perspectives. The forum will feature senior leaders from studios, technology companies and analyst organisations discussing the commercial forces influencing the media technology sector through keynote presentations, panel sessions and interactive roundtables.

"Our MTS programming on day one is dedicated to business strategy, keynotes from global industry leaders, an outlook on what comes next, and the health of our industry," notes Hans Hoffmann (EBU), Chair of the Media Tech Business Forum. "This program shares the vision of industry leaders and brings them into dialogue with users. We offer profound insight from decision-makers, big tech in dialogue with start-ups, and critical strategies for shaping the future. Our industry is changing rapidly, and the Media Tech Business Forum is critical for anyone who needs to understand where our industry is heading, where decisions have to be made, and where opportunities will emerge."

The Solutions Hub will also return, providing demonstrations of emerging technologies alongside presentations from technology suppliers, artists and end users. Expanded networking events and roundtable discussions are planned throughout the week to encourage collaboration among attendees.

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