At Mint Tech Labs, we know that time is money on set, and the last thing a production wants to deal with is unnecessary back-and-forth over screen graphics. That’s why we’ve developed a streamlined submission process that makes requesting and approving playback graphics quick, efficient, and foolproof.
On top of our proprietary software, MotionPiE (iOS/iPadOS) and CineOS (macOS), we’ve designed a custom submission portal at computerplayback.com that takes the guesswork out of the process. Instead of lengthy email chains and miscommunications, productions can submit, track, and approve graphics all in one place.
How It Works
Step 1: Initial Setup (One-Time Process, 15-30 Minutes)
Setting up your production in our system is a simple one-time process that takes no more than 30 minutes and can be done by anyone in the props or art department with basic computer skills.
- Create an account at computerplayback.com. Once we approve your account, you can log in to the portal.
- Create a new production by entering key details (production name, type—feature film or TV series, etc.).
- Add all your characters who will appear on-screen using phones, tablets, or computers. This ensures we build graphics with the correct:
- Device model & OS version (ensuring accurate resolution, aspect ratio, and compatibility).
- Wallpaper (upload custom character backgrounds).
- Operating system or UI (production must determine whether Apple OS can be used or if a custom UI is required).
Once this setup is complete, your production details are saved for the entire shoot, so you don’t have to re-enter them every time a new graphic is needed.
Step 2: Submitting a Scene Request
For each scene requiring playback graphics, you’ll fill out a simple form in the portal:
- Character (automatically populates from setup).
- Scene number & description (briefly describe what happens and what’s visible on the screen).
- Network connection (WiFi, LTE, etc.).
- Screen sequence (e.g., an incoming call progresses from: Black Screen → Incoming Call → Ongoing Call → End Call).
- Shoot date (when the graphic needs to be on set).
Once submitted, our team is instantly notified and begins work on the requested graphic.
Step 3: Review & Approval Process
Before any graphic is sent to set, we ensure all stakeholders are on the same page.
- We create a video demo of the graphic and upload it to the portal.
- You receive an automatic notification when the demo is ready for review.
- Directors and art directors review the demo and either:
- Approve it for final delivery.
- Request revisions, at which point we make the necessary adjustments and upload a revised demo.
This eliminates surprises on set—everyone knows exactly what to expect before shoot day.
Step 4: Final Delivery to Set
Once a graphic is approved:
- The final project file is exported and made available for download.
- The on-set playback operator is automatically CC’d, ensuring they receive both:
- The final approved graphic file.
- The video demo for reference.
This means that by the time the graphic arrives on set, it has already been reviewed, tested, and approved—eliminating unnecessary revisions and last-minute panic.
Why We Built This System
Productions shouldn’t have to waste time micromanaging screen graphics. We designed this system to reduce friction and free up production resources so the team can focus on the bigger picture.
Instead of lengthy approval chains and wasted back-and-forth emails, our submission portal centralizes everything in one place, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and ease of use.
Need Playback Graphics for Your Production?
Let Mint Tech Labs take the hassle out of screen graphics. Whether you need incoming or outgoing calls, text messages, emails on a cellphone, or graphics for a MacBook, iMac, or Mac Mini—or any on-screen image for your film—we’ve got you covered.
📩 Contact us to get started!
Want to Learn More About the Film Industry?
If you found this insight into computer playback helpful, you’ll love Lights, Camera, Hired! A Guide to Film Industry Jobs by Andre, a 25-year film industry veteran. Packed with insider knowle