Election night 2024: NBC and MSNBC revolutionize coverage with tech marvels

Transformative coverage from the heart of 30 Rock

Viewers tuning into NBC’s 2024 election coverage on November 5th might be convinced that the anchor desk is set amidst New York’s iconic Rockefeller Plaza. On MSNBC, Steve Kornacki’s “Big Board” appears just steps away from the White House. However, this visual magic is the result of advanced mixed reality technology.

NBC and MSNBC have gone beyond traditional broadcasts, utilizing this cutting-edge tech to simulate their anchors reporting live from these renowned locations. By collaborating with Epic Games’ Unreal Engine, the network has elevated how viewers experience election night.

Innovative tech behind the immersive experience

While the election coverage is anchored from 30 Rock, it’s actually taking place in interior studios. The transformative power of mixed reality places NBC anchors “in” Rockefeller Plaza, and MSNBC’s team near the White House grounds. This creates an engaging, dramatic setting where 30 Rock’s 69 floors seem to loom over the NBC anchors, with data visualizations projected onto a virtual building. Meanwhile, Kornacki’s big board is mere steps away from the simulated White House.

Behind the scenes: Tour of the tech hub

Earlier this week, NBC News and MSNBC provided a tour of the 30 Rock studios, showcasing their tech plans. A senior executive expressed excitement and some nervousness about debuting these technologies, highlighting the unique storytelling capabilities they offer. “This is our home-field advantage,” the executive noted, referring to Rockefeller Center.

The historic Rockefeller Plaza, built for radio right in the midst of the depression, presents unique challenges and opportunities. The largest studio, Studio 8H, although famous as the home of Saturday Night Live, is modest compared to many West Coast studios. Yet, NBC’s creative use of space and technology ensures that every inch is utilized for dynamic storytelling.

Elevating the importance of data

For both NBC and MSNBC, the central mission is clear: data is the star of the show. The design and tech elements are crafted to enhance the presentation and transparency of electoral data.

In the MSNBC studio, Rachel Maddow and her team enjoy a clear view of Steve Kornacki and his board. Enthusiastic viewers can also check out the “Kornacki Cam” on Peacock, offering uninterrupted footage of the data expert at work. NBC mirrors this setup, with the Rockefeller Plaza backdrop merged with the newsroom, positioning Tom Llamas’ big board just a few steps from the anchor desk. This arrangement facilitates real-time analysis and conversations based on the incoming data.

A dynamic newsroom setting

The editorial vision centers on broadcasting from the heart of the newsroom. This format provides direct access to all journalists, facilitating immediate, direct interactions between anchors and reporters. The control room exemplifies this dynamism, with cameras seamlessly transitioning from virtual backgrounds to the real-world newsroom, capturing every on-air moment.

“Our goal is not just a visual spectacle but enhancing transparency around data,” the executive emphasized. Reflecting on the lessons from the 2020 election, the team started with data presentation, asking how to display it in the most understandable, transparent way possible.

The future of election coverage: Big Boards and beyond

Central to this mission are the Big Boards, strategically placed to make data and its interpreters, like Kornacki and Llamas, the focal points of NBC and MSNBC’s coverage. These boards are not merely displays but interactive hubs enabling anchors to explain and contextualize election data comprehensively.

In the control room, operators can switch from dramatic virtual settings to the bustling newsroom at the touch of a button. This capability ensures that anchors can seamlessly engage with journalists or provide on-the-spot analysis without complex transitions.

Ultimately, NBC’s and MSNBC’s integration of mixed reality technology into their election night coverage represents a significant leap forward. By immersing viewers in iconic settings and making data the centerpiece, they are setting a new standard for election coverage.

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