Sinclair Invests in IRCODE, a ‘Shazam for Images’ AI Vision Start-Up, and Sets Interactive TV Rollouts in Two Markets

Sinclair Broadcast Group announced an investment in IRCODE on October 26, 2023, a computer vision and AI company that enables real-time interactivity with television programming and advertisements. This partnership aims to transform Sinclair's on-air content, allowing viewers to engage with what they see on screen, including shoppable advertisements. IRCODE's technology functions similarly to 'Shazam for images,' identifying visual elements within a broadcast to provide immediate, relevant information or actions to the viewer. The company states its system can make television interactive and shoppable in real time, a capability Sinclair intends to leverage for its upcoming rollouts in two unspecified markets. This strategic move positions Sinclair to explore new revenue streams and enhance viewer engagement through advanced AI-driven interactive features, moving beyond traditional passive viewing experiences. The specifics of the investment amount and the exact markets for the initial rollout were not disclosed in the announcement.