RTL Deutschland has established a specialized AI infrastructure to power Sidekicks, an innovative agentic AI platform created by its adtech subsidiary, smartclip. This initiative signifies a crucial advancement in the broadcaster's strategy to grow its internal technological capabilities and guarantee the secure, scalable implementation of artificial intelligence within its operations. Hosted by RTL Technology, the infrastructure offers a fully AI-enabled environment on a separate, high-performance cluster.
It is equipped with advanced cooling systems and secure, segregated network connections to provide optimal performance and data protection. By operating Sidekicks on this self-contained system, RTL Deutschland reduces dependence on external cloud services while adhering to stringent European data-protection standards. “Building a dedicated AI infrastructure for Sidekicks reflects RTL Deutschland’s commitment to enabling innovation in this category while safeguarding the operational and informational integrity of our business,” said Frank Penning, CIO at RTL Deutschland and Managing Director of RTL Technology. “The isolated cluster gives us both the computational power and the protection required to advance agentic AI in practice.”
Specifically designed for the media and advertising sector, Sidekicks incorporates AI agents directly into operational processes, merging media intelligence with process automation. The platform aims to facilitate scalable and efficient innovation across RTL Deutschland's media offerings and partner network. The project also underscores the synergies within RTL Group, with smartclip and RTL Deutschland collaborating closely on a common technological base. According to the company, the new infrastructure not only supports current agentic workflows but also creates a secure environment for future AI applications, ensuring that proprietary data remains securely managed within the group.