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Netflix Leverages AI for Global Reach

AI localization reshapes Netflix's global content strategy.

By

Editorial Team

1 October 2024

| Article

In Brief

In a significant move to enhance its global content strategy, Netflix has partnered with Iyuno, a leader in AI-powered localization technology. This collaboration focuses on using advanced AI dubbing technology to synchronize dialogue more seamlessly with on-screen actors, improving the viewing experience for audiences across different languages and markets. With an increasing reliance on international content to maintain its global footprint, Netflix aims to streamline its localization processes to deliver content more efficiently and effectively. This business case examines the strategic implications of using AI in content localization and the potential benefits it brings to Netflix as it continues to expand its global audience.

1. AI as a Catalyst for Global Content Growth

As Netflix continues to expand into international markets, delivering high-quality localized content is critical to its success. In this context, Netflix’s collaboration with Iyuno represents a strategic move to enhance its localization capabilities through the use of AI. Traditionally, dubbing and subtitling have been time-consuming and resource-intensive processes, but with AI, Netflix can significantly accelerate these operations. AI-powered dubbing enables real-time synchronization of translated dialogue with the lip movements and facial expressions of actors, offering a more natural and immersive viewing experience. This improvement not only enhances the quality of international content but also allows Netflix to localize at scale, providing a more seamless experience for global audiences. By adopting this AI-driven approach, Netflix is positioning itself as a leader in using technology to overcome the challenges of global content delivery. Moreover, it allows the platform to release international content faster, helping to keep up with the growing demand for diverse, localized programming.


2. Enhancing Consumer Engagement through Localization

The success of Netflix in international markets relies heavily on its ability to engage diverse audiences. One of the primary challenges in this regard has been ensuring that non-English-speaking viewers can enjoy content without losing its emotional impact. With traditional dubbing methods, translated dialogue often feels disjointed, reducing the overall viewing experience. The partnership with Iyuno is expected to change this dynamic by employing deepfake dubbing technology, which uses AI to create voiceovers that are more closely aligned with the original actor’s lip movements and facial expressions. This level of accuracy in dubbing not only preserves the integrity of the performance but also deepens viewer engagement by providing a more authentic experience. For Netflix, improving localization through AI is a critical component of its broader strategy to enhance consumer satisfaction and retention in global markets. As competition in the streaming space intensifies, Netflix’s ability to deliver superior localized content will be a key differentiator, particularly in regions where language and cultural nuances are paramount to viewer enjoyment.


3. Operational Efficiency and Cost Savings through AI Localization

Beyond enhancing the viewer experience, AI-powered localization offers significant operational benefits for Netflix. Traditional dubbing and subtitling processes require extensive manual work and coordination across multiple teams and regions, leading to high costs and longer production times. By integrating Iyuno’s AI technology, Netflix can automate much of this process, reducing the time and resources required to localize content for global markets. This not only speeds up the delivery of international shows and films but also drives cost savings, allowing Netflix to reinvest in content production and other strategic initiatives. The efficiency gains provided by AI localization also support Netflix’s broader push to scale its international operations, as the platform looks to increase its market share in regions like Asia and Latin America. As Netflix continues to expand its content library, the ability to localize at scale will become increasingly important in maintaining its competitive edge in the global streaming landscape.

Conclusion

Netflix’s partnership with Iyuno marks a pivotal moment in the company’s global content strategy. By leveraging AI-powered dubbing, Netflix is not only improving the quality of its localized content but also enhancing its operational efficiency and expanding its reach into international markets. As AI technology continues to evolve, Netflix’s early adoption of these tools positions it as a leader in content localization, setting a new standard for the industry. By focusing on both viewer satisfaction and cost savings, Netflix is well-positioned to maintain its global dominance in the increasingly competitive streaming landscape.

Netflix Partners with Iyuno for AI-Powered Localization, Simkins LLP, October 1, 2024. Access at: https://www.simkins.com/news/entertainment-technology-briefing-october-2024

ABOUT THE AUTHOR(S)

Coleman Moser's central editorial team.

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