First Audiovisual Robotics Report Published by the Catalan Audiovisual Cluster

The Catalan Audiovisual Cluster, which brings together more than 250 leading companies and institutions from the Catalan audiovisual sector, has presented the first Audiovisual Robotics Report. The study was produced by the Switch Observatory, a Cluster initiative focused on analysing technological trends with a direct impact on the industry. The report is available in both English and Catalan.

The study examines the current state and evolution of robotics applied to the audiovisual sector, with a particular focus on its impact on image capture, virtual production, location shoots and studio automation. Its aim is to anticipate change, foster industry debate and strengthen the positioning of the Catalan audiovisual ecosystem as a key player in this emerging technological landscape.

The report stems from a business mission to China organized by ACCIÓ’s Catalonia Cluster, which took leaders from various Catalan clusters to Hong Kong, Shanghai and Shenzhen. During the visit, participants observed the widespread use of robotics in the Chinese audiovisual sector and the rapid adoption of these technologies in the market. This experience highlighted the need to promote audiovisual robotics in Catalonia, a field in which the region possesses the technological, creative and industrial capabilities to compete internationally.

The report notes that robots have evolved from being mere automated support systems to becoming tools that expand storytelling possibilities and streamline production processes. Robotic cameras enable precise, repeatable and smooth movements that are difficult for human operators to achieve, particularly in live broadcasts and technically demanding environments.

According to Intel Market Research data included in the report, more than 85% of television studios already use some type of robotic camera in news production, and the remote operation of these systems can reduce operational costs by up to 40%.

One of the report’s key focuses is the role of robotic arms in virtual production. Their high level of precision enables synchronization between physical capture and computer-generated environments using CGI and game engines, helping to modernize workflows. The analysis also covers the expansion of robotics beyond cameras and drones, with applications in lighting automation, set and prop movement, and operational management of studios.

Joan Rosés, editor of the Switch Observatory and lead author of the report, emphasized that robotics is no longer limited to improving efficiency; it is now opening up new creative possibilities in audiovisual production, enabling previously unachievable camera movements and much more precise integration with virtual production.

Meanwhile, Miquel Rutllant, president of the Catalan Audiovisual Cluster, highlighted that the report helps to understand a transformation that is already underway and that robotics is strategic for the sector’s competitiveness, both in terms of technology and talent, as well as in attracting international projects.

During the report’s presentation, the discussion focused on the transversal integration of robotics across audiovisual production, from image capture to location shoots. The study notes that advances in autonomy, dexterity and adaptability will facilitate the gradual incorporation of robots into physical tasks within the industry, contributing to safer, more efficient and more creative productions.

Beyond robotic cameras, robotics is being implemented in areas such as set construction and assembly, lighting system automation, and the management of physical elements on set. At the same time, drones have evolved into systems capable of dynamic tracking, aerial lighting, and volumetric capture, while swarms of light-equipped drones are turning the sky into a new platform for audiovisual shows. The report also highlights the emergence of high-performance humanoid robots that are beginning to appear on camera, opening new creative opportunities in film, television, and immersive experiences.

In a context of rapid change, the Audiovisual Robotics Report positions robotics as one of the key technologies that will shape the near future of content production, redefining workflows, visual language, and professional profiles in the sector.

The report was presented as part of the ISE 2026 program, the world’s leading audiovisual and integrated systems fair, which this year attracted over 92,000 attendees and 1,750 exhibitors.