The BBC is looking to the future with a prototype of a new editorial format that adapts its content to the audience. Breaking Out is an audio play, which offers an example of ‘Perceptive Media’, a broadcast that uses information about the viewer or listener to create a personalized experience.

BBC R&D‘s play is set in an an apartment block elevator, where agoraphobic Harriet gets stuck after having second thoughts about venturing outside. The story tailors itself to the listener, referencing their location, nearby places to visit, and the weather, to make the experience feel more personal and engaging. Ian Forrester from BBC R&D wrote in a recent blog post:

With thoughtful uses of Perceptive media we can re-imagine media and make it highly relevant without taking the narrative off the rails. Taking the best parts of Internet/IP technology and the ability to broadcast to many people in a timely fashion.

Breaking Out