The Associated Press (AP) has unveiled its new file-based video news delivery service, designed for better integration with digital newsroom production systems.
The new service, AP Media Port, enables customers to receive video news stories as separate digital files. This means there is no longer a need to record stories from AP’s Global Video Wire feed, based on a 24-hour bulletin schedule.
“By introducing AP Media Port delivery, our clients will find it easier to integrate AP content into their digital workflows,” explained Nigel Baker, vice president of business operations for AP. “They’ll also be able to identify the footage they need much faster.”
The Media Port server is a customised high-end server installed in customer data centres. It captures and forwards video files to the customer’s production system. The server features a ‘backhaul’ function that automatically resends videos that were missed by the customer, to help eliminate the need for file retransmission requests. Servers are accessible remotely by AP, allowing it to monitor their health and install software updates as needed. Video editors at the customer location can access AP content on the Media Port server through a web browser interface.
The service has already been installed at 40 customer locations and will eventually roll out to 800 sites. Until then, AP will continue to operate both delivery systems, allowing clients who have not yet switched over to the Media Port to use the traditional method of recording content from the Global Video Wire.
