iPad, schmiPad, you’re probably tired of hearing about it. Well too bad, ’cause it’s almost here and the production world is onboard. Case in point; Broadcast Pix [NAB booth n4506], the maker of live broadcast equipment, is integrating the iPad into their Slate video production system.  This is news because the iPad isn’t even officially out till late March.

President of Broadcast Pix Ken Swanton explains,

“Broadcast Pix has always been about harnessing new technologies to enable you to create the most compelling live video.  Now, the iPixPanel on an iPad lets us bring a powerful control panel to individual producers that previously could not afford one – and wireless panels to larger production teams to expand their control options.”

In a nutshell, the iPix Panel utilizes the freedom that a large, wireless, handheld, LCD screen offers to directors and technical directors.  It can also be combined with the stand that Apple is selling for an upright configuration. Here’s the awesome factor. The iPad Pix Panel can handle nearly all aspects of live production including:  switching cameras, graphics, controlling robotic cameras, implementing special effects and more. You just walk around the room like a crazy person inserting supers and touching the screen like some Minority Report flashback, all the while yelling at your robotic cameras deaf ears.

Say what you will about the horrible name, the iPad is what we i.e. companies like Broadcast pix make of it.  As long as our Apple overlords approve.

More info via Creative Cow

Photos Courtesy of Business Insider, and The Guardian UK