M2A Media, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Videon, Singular.live, TAG Video Systems and Spalk have come together for a first-of-its-kind, multi-vendor proof of concept demonstrating how next-generation hybrid cloud technologies are pushing the boundaries of traditional live broadcast workflows.
The demonstration involved multiple live video sources, including a cloud hand-off from ATP Media, and a live BT Sport feed acquired into AWS from BT Media & Broadcast in London.
Its aim was to show how live video can be contributed via the AWS cloud and transformed using progressive new cloud technologies. In addition to showing secure receipt and control of the live video streams, the workflow was augmented through a range of transformations including remotely switching from one source transport stream to another transport stream for B2B distribution, the addition and control of live graphics, live commentary, and the transformation to B2C streams and delivery to an AWS CloudFront for its onward journey to viewers and sports fans worldwide.
The proof-of-concept employed Videon’s Compute Platform (VCP), which enables users to package streams in multiple formats, insert SCTE-35 ad markers, graphic overlays, UTC time codes, and user-defined KLV metadata into live video feeds.
The orchestration of the AWS cloud for workflow flexibility and scalability was shown by M2A Media’s live IP transport product, M2A CONNECT. The proof of concept demonstrated how TAG can be used to fully monitor and visualise a cloud workflow, and benefit from scalability, agility, and custom orchestration.
Singular.live provides broadcast quality graphic templates, from creation to live control and automation via its web based HTML5 overlay platform. The control was shown in real-time, using a series of custom templates created for the demonstration.
Spalk showcased how their Virtual Commentary Studio can enable broadcasters, production companies and rights holders to easily produce customised and localised broadcast feeds for specific markets without sacrificing production quality.
Speaking about the PoC, Marcus Box, CEO, M2A Media, said: “M2A Media has a keen understanding of the value that cloud technology is bringing to the media and entertainment industry. With this proof of concept, it was our aim to bring together leading innovators in the field to educate and to inspire the industry by presenting the technologies that are disrupting the broadcast landscape. We were delighted that the POC was so well received, and we look forward to future collaborations as we continue to disrupt and innovate.”
