Thousands of entrepreneurs, influencers and promoters of consumer brands descended on downtown Austin this week for South by Southwest, or SXSW – the giant festival and conference that returned to the capital city for the first time since 2019.
Tech expert Omar Gallaga told Texas Standard that NFTs – non-fungible tokens traded on the blockchain – were both a buzzworthy presence at SXSW and the subject of backlash from those who question their value.
Highlights from this segment:
– Attendees at this year’s SXSW were relieved to be there in person. The 2020 event was canceled days before it was set to begin, due to the pandemic.
– Streaming TV companies, including Amazon Prime Video, hosted “activations” promoting their shows. Rap star Lizzo plugged her reality show at events in Austin.
– There was no gaming expo at SXSW this year. The event typically draws large crowds, including families, to the festival.
