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Articles for Jan Ozer

Navigating the Shifting Streaming Landscape: Insights from Kantar’s Dominic Sunnebo

In a recent interview I did with Dominic Sunnebo, Global Insight Director at Kantar, Sunnebo shared findings from Kantar's latest Entertainment on Demand (EoD) data, revealing distinct trends in the UK market and their broader implications. The conversation highlighted not only Kantar's insights but also Sunnebo's expertise in interpreting key trends shaping the global streaming market, from the dominance of top-tier services to the rise of ad-supported models and the challenges faced by niche platforms.

Could Multicast ABR Really Have Saved the Paul/Tyson Fight?

When Netflix streamed the Paul/Tyson fight to a record-breaking 65 million simultaneous viewers, it wasn't all smooth sailing. Many viewers were left frustrated by buffering, freezes, and audio-sync issues. Like many other vendors, Broadpeak, a major player in streaming technology, claimed its multicast ABR (mABR) technology would have "knocked out video freezes" during the broadcast. It's a tantalizing promise, but could mABR realistically have delivered it? To understand, let's look at what mABR is, what's required to make it work, and why its widespread adoption is more complicated than Broadpeak might have you believe.

Chick-fil-A’s Play App: A Family-Focused Strategy with a Strategic Edge

Why the heck would Chick-fil-A start a streaming channel? Is this a completely new strategy or a copycat move? I endeavored to find out, and this is what I learned.

Live Sports in the Streaming Era: What’s Changing and Why It Matters

Samba TV's recently released report, Live Sports on Streaming Platforms, provides five key sets of data points to help advertisers and sports leagues better target their audiences both during and after live sporting events. The report begins with insights into web-only sporting events, revealing audience numbers for the most-watched and least-watched games on platforms like Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video.

AI-Powered Insights for Film and Beyond: How Cinelytic and Callaia Are Streamlining Content Decisions

In a recent interview with Streaming Media's Jan Ozer, Cinelytic CEO Tobias Queisser discussed how the company's namesake platform offers media professionals a streamlined mechanism to assess a film's potential success before production even begins, and provides actionable insights into casting, budget optimization, and distribution strategies.

What Google Chrome's Cookie Apocalypse Means for Streaming Advertising

For some publishers, third-party cookies enable the targeting that differentiates web-based ads from broadcast ads. If you lose the ability to target, you lose the benefit that delivers greater efficiency to marketers and increased CPM on your ad inventory. In this article, I'll cover Google's proposed actions regarding third-party cookies, the status of those plans, who this impacts, and what advertisers and publishers can do to mitigate this impact.

Unpacking Amazon Prime’s UI Redesign With UIC Digital’s Matt Lasky

Amazon Prime recently redesigned its interface. To help us understand what Amazon did, why they did it, and what it could mean for other streaming publishers, I recently interviewed Matt Lasky, lead user experience designer at UIC Digital. His quotes in the article have been edited for flow and readability.

Managing Teleprompter Scrolling Speed with Elgato Stream Deck and Pedal

One of the most challenging aspects of reading from a teleprompter has always been speed control. Unless you get the speed just right, you either have to rush or slow down your narration, and either adjustment adds stress to your delivery that can force a glitch and another retake. Fortunately, Elgato has two hardware options you can use to control scrolling speed; the Stream Deck+ ($199.99) and Stream Deck Pedal ($89.99). Elgato was kind enough to send both options for me to try, and I'll briefly recount my experience here.

Review: Elgato Prompter

The $279 Elgato Prompter is a unique product that performs well in its namesake role but offers a range of functionality that extends far beyond script reading. You'll find Prompter highly useful if you're a frequent video conference participant, if you create screencams or recorded product demonstrations, and even if you produce webinars.

AI and Streaming Media

This article explores the current state of AI in the streaming encoding, delivery, playback, and monetization ecosystems. By understanding the developments and considering key questions when evaluating AI-powered solutions, streaming professionals can make informed decisions about incorporating AI into their video processing pipelines and prepare for the future of AI-driven video technologies.

Telestream CTO Simon Clarke Talks AI, Cloud, and Wirecast and Vantage Trajectories

In a recent interview, Simon Clarke, Chief Technology Officer of Telestream, discussed two key products, Wirecast and Vantage. Celebrating Wirecast's 20th anniversary, Clarke reflected on its evolution from a nascent streaming tool to a robust application used by a diverse range of streaming producers, including educators, business professionals, and houses of worship.

Enhancing Ad Performance for Smaller Streamers with Moloco’s AI Solution

When it comes to delivering effective video advertising, smaller companies often face significant challenges. Unlike major platforms like Amazon, Google, and Meta, these companies lack the extensive viewer data that enables precise ad targeting. Moloco aims to bridge this gap with its AI-based platform and streaming media service, providing smaller streamers with tools to enhance their advertising performance. Dave Simon, General Manager of Growth Initiatives at Moloco, recently discussed the company's solutions and insights from a recent YouGov survey in this interview with Streaming Media's Jan Ozer.

Tutorial: How to Nail Your First LinkedIn Live Event

If you make it to the end, you'll learn why it's so hard to start your LinkedIn Live event smoothly (it's not your fault) and some thoughts on how to start like a pro in the future.

Will Amazon and Dolby's Latest Acquisitions Accelerate VVC Deployment?

Recent moves by Amazon and Dolby may hint at a growing interest in VVC (Versatile Video Coding).

Decoding the Landscape: Recent Developments in Video Codec Licensing

Navigating the ever-changing world of video codec licensing can be complex. This article breaks down major IP-related events from the past 18 months, including the new European SEP licensing rules, Avanci's new video patent pool, and the Sisvel-RPX deal. Explore who's making deals, what technologies are involved, and the implications for royalty-free models

Interview: IP Attorney Robert J.L. Moore Discusses Video Codec IP and Patent Monetization Issues

In this wide-ranging interview, Streaming Media's Jan Ozer and intellectual property attorney Robert Moore of Moore IP solutions delve into a number of topics related to video codec intellectual property issues and patent monetization, two constantly moving targets.

Introduction: Foundations of AI-Based Codec Development

To promote the understanding of AI codec development, Deep Render's CTO and Co-founder, Arsalan Zafar, has launched an educational resource titled "Foundations of AI-Based Codec Development: An Introductory Course." In a recent interview with Streaming Media Magazine, Zafar provided insights into the course's content, target audience, and expected outcomes.

’Round the Horn at NAB 2024: Videon, Telestream, Phenix, Ateme, V-Nova, Twelve Labs, Norsk, Dolby, and NETINT

Any NAB report is like the story of the blind man and the elephant: what you experience is what you touch, representing a fraction of the whole and perhaps not even a good sample. That being said, here's what I touched during the show. Many of these experiences are accompanied by video that I shot of the interviews.

The State of Video Codecs 2024

It's been 3-plus years since the MPEG codec explosion that brought us VVC, LCEVC, and EVC. Rather than breathlessly trumpet every single-digit quality improvement or design win, I'll quickly get you up-to-speed on quality, playability, and usage of the most commonly utilized video codecs and then explore new codec-related advancements in business and technology.

How to Deploy GPAC for FFmpeg Packaging and ABR Distribution

As much as we love FFmpeg for transcoding op­erations, it can get frustrating when packag­ing your content for ABR delivery. By packag­ing, I mean formatting and segmenting your media files, creating manifest files for HLS and DASH, for­matting for CMAF, and managing multiple audio and subtitle streams. Fortunately, there are easier-to-use solutions that are equally open source and equal­ly free. In this article, I'll focus on GPAC, which is a great packaging alternative.

What Your Codec Will Cost You: Robert J.L. Moore Talks Avanci Video Codec Patent Pool Launch

What is the new Avanci Video codec patent pool, who is involved with it, what codecs does it cover, and what does it mean for OTTs and other streaming content companies in terms of paying for codec usage going forward? Should the streaming industry be bracing for a sea change when it comes to codec royalties? In this interview with Streaming Learning Center's Jan Ozer and Robert J L Moore, IP attorney, they discuss these implications and more based on what we know so far.

Review: ViCueSoft CodecWar

CodecWar is an analysis service created by ViCueSoft, the developer of codec analy­sis tools VQ Analyzer, VQ DVK, and VQ Probe. As currently configured, the site's ideal users are researchers who are looking for a convenient way to compare codecs using relevant datasets and codec developers who are looking for a structured way to benchmark their codecs against others. In contrast, it's not a particularly convenient way for streaming producers to run experiments to optimise their encoding parameters, although it could grow into this.

The State of VVC Adoption and Implementation

If you're a video publisher who doesn't rank high in the VVC patent list, it's likely that you won't consider VVC until 2026 or later. If you're looking to augment your H.264 encodes with a more efficient codec before then, your most likely choices are HEVC and AV1, with LCEVC also an option. However, if you're a product or service provider in the streaming media ecosystem, it's long past the time to start considering where and when VVC is going to fit in for you and your target customers.

Rethink TV's Alex Davies Talks New M&E Codecs Market Forecast

When it comes to making roadmap decisions about adopting emerging codecs for media & entertainment content delivery between now and 2030, what do the numbers say, and how has the forecast changed since the pandemic shook up the streaming market? In this in-depth exclusive interview with Streaming Learning Center's Jan Ozer, Rethink Technology Research Senior Analyst Alex Davies discusses the findings of Rethink's new M&E Codecs Market Forecast.

Via LA's Heath Hoglund Talks MPEG LA/Via Licensing Patent Pool Merger

Following on the news that Via Licensing has acquired codec patent pool administrators MPEG LA to form Via LA as a "unified entity," Via LA President Heath Hoglund discusses how the pool will operate, as well as resulting synergies including streamlined IP distribution and economies of scale in this interview with Streaming Learning Center's Jan Ozer.

Jan Ozer Talks "VVC: Ready for Action?" Workshop Coming Up at Streaming Media East 2023

One of the premier pre-conference events at the upcoming Streaming Media East conference explores the readiness of the Versatile Video Codec (VVC) for deployment and implementation. Presented on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Boston's Westin Copley Place, the session includes multiple speakers, many from companies already shipping VVC-related products or services. 

The State of Video Codecs 2023

Welcome to your codec update for 2023. I'm here to help you decide whether it's time to go all in on AV1, VVC, LCEVC, or EVC or whether it's better to stick with H.264, VP9, and HEVC. Along the way, I'll include 2022-2023 updates to identify significant changes that have occurred since last year.

How to Produce VVC With FFmpeg

Anytime you start working with a new codec, there are some fundamental tests that you should run to achieve optimal performance/quality optimization. In this article, I'll take you through those tests while encoding VVC using a version of FFmpeg that includes the Fraunhofer VVC codec.

How to Script for FFmpeg Using PowerShell and BASH

FFmpeg was designed as a cross-platform solution for video and audio recording, conversion, and streaming using simple static command lines. Using variables and "for loops" in a command string simplifies the reuse of existing scripts and helps automate their operation. While you can't use these scripts in the Windows Command window, you can use Microsoft PowerShell in Windows and Bash on Linux and the Mac. In this tutorial, you'll learn how to create and run such scripts with PowerShell and Bash.

Review: Moscow State University Video Quality Measurement Tool 14.1

Unlimited file analysis and Python interface highlight the new features

Google Chrome Plays HEVC: What Does it Mean?

In late September, Google quietly let slip the news that it now offers playback support for HEVC in Chrome when it's already available in the underlying platform. This is bigger news than Google is letting on, but its immediate impact remains to be seen. We surveyed a number of experts and analysts to gauge its meaning for increased HEVC usage and more, and how it affects DRM and HDR.

Netflix's Andrey Norkin Talks Future of AV1

Streaming Learning Center's Jan Ozer interviews Netflix Senior Research Scientist - Video Algorithms and Alliance for Open Media co-chair Andrey Norkin about several topics around the future of AV1, including the necessity of HDR for premium content producers, Libaom's focus on SVT-AV1, and more.

AOMedia Delivers on SVT-AV1's Promise

With the recent launch of version 1.0, SVT-AV1 appears to have caught up with libaom in quality, with very definite performance advantages. Its two-pass rate control is tested and proven. If you're creating an AV1 encoding workflow today that emphasises encoding speed and quality, SVT-AV1 should definitely be on your short list.

Tutorial: Publishing HDR Video to YouTube

In this tutorial, I'll show you how to publish HDR videos from your iPhone to YouTube, with an intermediate step through Adobe Premiere Pro.

Review: Telestream Wirecast Gear 3

The newly released Wirecast Gear 3 combines a change from Intel to AMD CPUs and a rearchitected software engine that Telestream claims "uses up to 60% less computer resources than previous versions." In this review, I tested the new version of hardware and software to its limits and came away very impressed.

Telestream COO Jon Wilson Talks Encoding.com Acquisition

Streaming Media Contributing Editor Jan Ozer interviews Telestream President & COO Jon Wilson about Telestream's acquisition of Encoding.com and its implications for Telestream and the streaming industry at large.

The Politicization of Codec Adoption

Streaming Learning Center Owner & Chief Blogger Jan Ozer discusses the role the Alliance of Open Media's influence plays in the current codec landscape, and how it impacts the adoption of AV1 and VVC in particular as the streaming world increasingly moves beyond H.264.

5 Great Reasons to Attend Streaming Media East

Jan Ozer will lead workshops, presentations, and panels covering advanced codecs, gear for remote productions, WebRTC, low latency, and reducing bandwidth and storage costs at Streaming Media East in Boston May 23-25.

How to Run a Remote Production with easylive.io

Like any multiple-input live production tool, easylive.io has a learning curve, particularly when managing multiple remote guests. But if you can drive a desktop tool like Wirecast or vMix, you'll find easylive.io a breeze.

How to Encode with FFmpeg 5.0

Rather than focusing on random tasks, this tutorial will walk you through the fundamentals of encoding with the latest version of FFmpeg.

The State of Video Codecs 2022

With H.264 usage finally beginning to decline and several newer codecs ascendant, this 2022 codec update reports on the most significant announcements from the last year relating to H.264, VP9, HEVC, AV1, VVC, LCEVC, and EVC.

Buyers' Guide: Per-Title Encoding

In per-title encoding, an encoding service creates a unique encoding ladder for each video file. While available for live streaming, per-title encoding is most often utilized with video on demand.

MPEG LA VVC Licensing Terms: What Do They Mean for the Streaming Industry?

Who's contributing to the two VVC patent pools, and will the combined royalties accelerate or discourage adoption? We sat down with two industry experts and the CEOs of both MPEG LA and Access Advance to get their insights.

The Greenest Codec: LCEVC

There's no doubt that LCEVC is a more efficient codec. But is it really going to make much of a difference in energy savings compared to other sustainability solutions?

MPEG LA Announces VVC Licensing Terms

The terms are out—20 cents per unit for hardware/paid software and 5 cents per unit for free software—but there's lots of fine print and plenty of questions remain, including those about the contributors that aren't in either the MPEG LA pool or the Access Advance pool.

Tutorial: Automated ABR With AWS Elemental MediaConvert

In a recent survey, two-thirds of respondents said they weren't using per-title encoding, possibly because of the general perception that its challenges outweigh its benefits. In this tutorial, I'll demonstrate how simple it is to produce per-title output using AWS Elemental's Automated ABR (adaptive bitrate) function.

Testing EVC, VVC, and LCEVC: How Do the Latest MPEG Codecs Stack Up?

Jan Ozer put EVC, VVC, and LCEVC through the paces, checking each for not only encoding quality, encoding complexity, and playback efficiency but also power consumption. Each one has its pros and cons; read on to find out how they all performed.

Moscow State's Dr. Dmitriy Vatolin Talks Codecs and Quality

The head of the Moscow State University Graphics and Media Lab—the people behind VQMT and Subjectify.us—offers his insights into objective and subjective metrics, as well as VMAF hacking and AV1.

H.264 Usage Drops for First Time in Bitmovin Video Developer Report

HEVC and AV1 usage are on the rise, while H.264 is beginning to fade, according to Bitmovin's annual survey of video developers and engineers. That's not the only surprise in the report.

How YouTube Encodes Videos

Looking for insights into exactly how YouTube encodes billions of videos? Jan Ozer went down the rabbit hole and shares what he discovered about AV1, VP9, and resolutions.

Video Editing in the Cloud

There are many cloud-based editing solutions available, nearly too many to count. Who should consider using them and why? How can you tell them apart? That's what I'll cover in this article.

JW Player's Dave LaPalomento Talks VP9, H.264 and More

H.264 still leads the pack, says JW Player's CTO Dave LaPalomento, but for more sophisticated publishers, VP9 offers benefits including bandwidth savings.

Judging Apple's Advanced Video Quality Tool

As a metric, Apple's Advanced Video Quality Tool (AVQT) showed some bright spots, but it's hard to see it bumping VMAF or SSIMPLUS from real-world workflows without a lot more verification.

Whither SVT-AV1

The Alliance for Open Media has gone all-in on SVT-AV1, but real-world tests show that Scalable Video Technology codecs don't live up to their promise when it comes to performance.

Defend Your Video Encoding Choices with Data

If you're charged with configuring your encoding ladder, there are a few datapoints you should have nailed. The most important is the VMAF score of the top rung of your encoding ladder.

The Past, Present, and Future of Per-Title Encoding

Video encoding began as a one-dimensional data rate adjustment that reflected the simple reality that all videos encode differently is now a complex analysis that incorporates frame rate, resolution, color gamut, and dynamic ranges, as well as delivery network and device-related data, along with video quality metrics.

Moscow State Reports: FFmpeg Still Tops for H.264, but Falters for HEVC and AV1

The good news: As always, Moscow State's codec studies are some of the most comprehensive available. The bad news: Unless you're TikTok or Tencent, you won't have access to some of the best performers.

Wowza Takes "Significant Investment" from Boston-Based Private Equity Firm

CEO David Stubenvoll says the investment from Clearhaven Partners will let Wowza accelerate innovation and growth, and possibly even open new offices, without the "restrictions and hassle of being a listed company."

Review: Moscow State University Video Quality Measurement Tool

If you're serious about experimenting with different codecs and/or encoding parameters, MSU's Video Quality Measurement Tool is an essential tool, and version 13 brings some welcome improvements.

V-Nova LCEVC Royalty Structure Announced

Royalty will be paid by streaming service providers; the codec will be free for encoder/player developers

When to Ditch the Webcam

I produce most of my live training with a webcam because the quality delta between a webcam and other options is negligible when presented in postage-stamp-sized videos. But what setup should you use for a really important conference or a call that will be distributed to many viewers live or on demand? That's where things get interesting.

How to Produce Remote Interviews With Telestream Rendezvous in Wirecast 14.1

Through its Rendezvous feature, Tele­stream's Wirecast was one of the first video mixers to enable completely customizable multiple-party conferencing in 2017. Telestream has upgraded the feature's functionality in several subtle but critical ways, which I'll discuss in this article.

Rethink Technology Forecast is Bullish on VVC

Rethink Technology Research's "Media & Entertainment Transcoding Workload and Device Royalty Forecast" breaks down anticipated codec penetration through 2030

Buyers' Guide: Lighting Kits

Lighting is the single most important determinant of video quality. Fortunately, the cost of quality lighting gear has plummeted over the last few years. So with a little bit of knowledge, which I'll supply here, and a very modest budget, you can provide great lighting for your online conferences, webinars, and presentations.

Tutorial: Setting Exposure on iPhones, DSLRs, and Camcorders

This article will discuss how to "go manual" with a professional camcorder and DSLR. This means how to set shutter speed, gain, aperture for the camcorder, and shutter speed, aperture, and ISO for the DSLR. In both cases, your guiding light will be zebra stripes, so I'll describe what they are, how they work, and how you can use them to achieve accurate exposure.

Buyers' Guide: Video Mixers

From inputs to outputs, everything you need to know to make the right choice

The Case for Shot-Based Encoding

Streaming Learning Center's Jan Ozer explains how Netflix's shot-based works and explains its benefits in this clip from his presentation at Streaming Media Connect 2021.

How to Create a Screencam-Based Video Lesson

Your guide to the best gear, strategies, and techniques for creating video lessons for work or school

Buyers' Guide to VOD Encoders

What's the best solution for your video on-demand encoding needs? That depends, but this guide will help you figure out which questions to ask.

New Rules of Codec Development

The game has changed for new codecs entering the market.

How Many Rungs on Your Encoding Ladder?

Streaming Learning Center's Jan Ozer explains the importance of adjusting the rungs on your encoding ladder in this clip from his presentation at Streaming Media Connect 2021.

VVC Patent Pools: And Then There Were Two

Access Advance and MPEG LA will both administer patent pools for VVC, but it's still unclear what will be covered under the patents and what the likely royalty costs will be.

How Does VVC Measure Up Right Now?

VVC today can be both useful and usable; let's hope that VVC IP owners can formulate a royalty policy that delivers the same.

When It Comes to Being on Camera, Don't Be "That Person"

There's no longer any excuse for poor-quality audio or bad video on your Zoom meetings or webinars. By following just a few simple tips and spending less than $200, you can look like a pro.

Review: Epiphan LiveScrypt

LiveScrypt combines a hardware appliance for audio input and a cloud application for transcription to deliver a polished, inexpensive, easy-to-use real-time transcription solution

Review: Wirecast Gear 420

In 4 days of testing with multiple severalhour productions, the Wirecast Gear 420 proved stable and responsive even when pushed to the edge.

It's Time to Retire PSNR

Peak signal-to-noise ratio is poor predictor of subjective video quality. So why are PSNR comparisons used in almost all codec comparisons?

AV1 Has Arrived: Comparing Codecs from AOMedia, Visionular, and Intel/Netflix

Within 24 months, hardware support appeared, encoding became affordable, and AV1 became a much more realistic competitor to HEVC. Here's how the currently available AV1 codecs measure up.

How to Balance Encoding Time and Quality

Jan Ozer explains how to choose presets and tweak encoding parameters when prioritizing speed or quality, and how to find the perfect balance.

4 Keys to Evaluating Cloud Transcoding Options

Here are the four differentiating factors to focus on when assessing cloud transcoding solutions

How to Find the Optimal Data Rate for Encoding

Jan Ozer explains how to use constant rate factor encoding and per-title encoding to find the optimal data rate for encoding different types of video files, ranging from talking heads to high-action movies.

Applying Objective Quality Metrics in Your Own Encoding

Jan Ozer discusses real-world applications for per-title and per-category encoding, where applying objective quality metrics to recalibrate an encoding ladder is effective and also times when it's not as helpful.

What Are Objective Quality Metrics?

Jan Ozer outlines the basics of objective quality metrics, from their recent evolution to their method for predicting how human eyes perceive video quality to the best metrics available now.

How to Think About VVC

TL;DR: The right way to think about VVC is to put off thinking about it at all until actual decoder deployments are announced on platforms that matter to you. Here's why.

MPEG: What Happened?

At the end of last month, MPEG co-founder Leonardo Chiariglione announced the "MPEG is closed." That's not quite true, but it is undergoing a reorganization. So what does that mean for the organization and the new codec standards it is bringing out this year?

MPEG is Closed; Want to Help Streaming Media Write the Story?

The Moving Picture Experts Group, which had been responsible for developing standards and executing royalties for video and audio codecs, shut down last week. We'll be writing up an article on the implications for the industry, and we need your help.

RealNetworks Brings Facial Recognition to Real 20/20 and StarSearch Chrome Plugin

RealNetworks' SAFR technology has been primarily deployed in security-related applications, but the new Chrome plugin StarSearch and the company's own RealPlayer 20/20 bring it to consumers

When it Comes to Bitrates, Less is Always More

What can streaming producers do in the short-term to reduce the load during these COVID-19-related bandwidth usage spikes?

Review: Adobe Premiere Rush

If you've been looking for a simple and efficient way to shoot and edit video on your phone or tablet, Rush definitely fills the bill. If you're looking to start on your phone or tablet and finish up on your workstation, Rush can't be beat.

Announcing Jan Ozer Encoding Workshops at Streaming Media East Connect

Jan Ozer will be presenting two in-depth workshops on encoding for streaming and on-demand video, the first for novices and the second for advanced users, May 26-27 at Streaming Media East Connect 2020.

How to Choose a Video Quality Metric

Jan Ozer discusses the pros and cons of three key objective quality metric tools: Moscow State University, SSIMplus, and Hybrik (Dolby).

Video Capture Dongles Buyers' Guide

When live streaming using video mixers like OBS, vMix, or Wirecast a capture dongle is the missing link between the camera and a notebook, providing access to titling, transitions, and effects. Dongles can run anywhere from $40 to $700; here's a look at how to pick the one that's right for you.

Review: iSize BitSave Video Preprocessing

iSize claims that BitSave can deliver a 40% to 60% bitrate reduction while keeping the same video quality. We put those claims to the test.

How to Produce CMAF Output and Testing Playback

CMAF has reached maturity. Here's one way to go about using it, with AWS Elemental MediaConvert

Buyers' Guide to Essential Video Utilities

Any good compressionist needs tools to help reveal critical data about encoded files, from codecs and resolution to GOP structure and quality levels. Here's a look at some of the most useful.

Buyers' Guide to Low-Latency Solutions

If you need low latency, here's how to pick the technology solution that's right for you. But it's not a one-size-fits-all affair.

How to Encode with LCEVC

Unlike other cutting-edge codecs coming to market, LCEVC will have an immediate impact on the streaming landscape. Here's how to use it.

Buyers' Guide to Live Streaming Platforms

Looking for live streaming services? Whether you're streaming church services, school events, enterprise meetings, entertainment content, or just about anything else, this buyers' guide has you covered.

When it Comes to Video Quality Measurements, Average Won't Cut It

Average scores can be deceiving, so be sure you're using a tool that gives you a more accurate assessment of your video quality

Balance of Power Shifts Among HEVC Patent Pools

Nine members of the MPEG LA HEVC pool—including ETRI, KBS, NTT, and NTT DOCOMO—have left and joined the HEVC Advance pool

Reports Show HEVC Usage on the Rise

Survey reports from Encoding.com, Bitmovin, and LiveU offer insights into current and future codec usage, and all show that HEVC and AV1 usage is finally on the rise

Grass Valley's GV Alyve Brings Cloud Mixing to the Browser

GV Alyve takes inputs from GV STRATUS or any device that can generate an RTMP output stream, and offers ad insertion and VOD playout in the higher-end subscriptions

All Roads Lead to ABR Royalties

As recent lawsuits regarding DASH-related patents make clear, royalty payments on adaptive bitrate streaming are inevitable—even if it's not yet clear who'll be paying who, or how much

3 Takeaways From Moscow State University's 2019 Codec Comparison

In rigorous tests of video codecs, only one produced vastly different results during objective and subjective examinations. What could cause that discrepancy?

What Is VVC?

Advance testing shows the codec producing strong bitrate savings over its competitors, but a tiered licensing model could prevent all users from enjoying the best performance.

The State of CMAF: The Holy Grail or Just Another Format?

It's all the buzz on the conference circuit, but deployment challenges mean CMAF hasn't taken over the streaming world yet. Here's why it's getting so much attention.

Discover In-Depth Pre-Conference Training at Streaming Media West

In just two weeks, Streaming Media's Jan Ozer will lead SMW attendees through advanced sessions on ABR production, video quality metrics, and more.

Showtime, Vudu, and Crackle Sued by DASH Patent Holders

MPEG LA's DASH Patent Pool may have ceased, but Ideahub and Helios Streaming resort to a lawsuit, claiming defendants refused to engage in licensing discussions.

The Need for Speed: Demand for Low-Latency Streaming Is High

Low latency video streaming is on everyone's mind, but figuring out the latency your project needs—as well as how to get it—can be a slow process. Let this article be your guide.

Qosifire Review: Testing the Live Stream Monitor and Debugger

There's no wiggle room in live video, so insuring quality is paramount. Qosifire offers an affordable and customizable way to monitor and debug live streams.

Inside MPEG's Ambitious Plan to Launch 3 Video Codecs in 2020

The pace of innovation is getting faster and the demands on video codecs are getting greater. MPEG's three-part plan answers questions of royalties, licensing, and computational efficiency. Meet VVC, MPEG-5 Part 1 (EVC), and MPEG-5 Part 2 (LCEVC).

Hardware-Based Transcoding Solutions Roundup: Testing Performance

We put hardware-based solutions from NVIDIA, Intel, and NGCodec to the test to see which offers the strongest performance and the highest quality.

Video Compression for Machines: The Next Frontier

Self-driving cars will see the road for you, and MPEG is working on standards for machine-to-machine video creation and consumption for the AI-powered neural networks that will make it happen.

Roland VR-1HD AV Streaming Mixer Review

Dive into the essential hardware functionality, features, and usability of the Roland VR-1HD AV Streaming Mixer, then learn about its software functionality, audio mixing, and how it works with programs like OBS, Vmix, and Wirecast to stream to services like Facebook Live and YouTube.

What Is Intel SVT-HEVC?

Streaming Learning Center Principal Jan Ozer introduces the SVT-AV1 codec and the efficiency it brings to encoding in this clip from his Video Engineering Summit presentation at Streaming Media East 2019.

The Compressionist's Aha! Moment: 'The Other Leg, Lanczos'

Every compressionist fantasizes about discovering the perfect configuration option, but our columnist learns that some results are too good to be true.

Pros and Cons of Shot-Based Encoding

Streaming Learning Center Principal Jan Ozer discusses why shot-based encoding makes sense for some organizations and applications in this clip from his presentation at Streaming Media East 2019.

DASH Patent Pool—Criticized From the Start—Might Cease Operations

The fact that DASH was always marketed as being free didn't stop MPEG LA from forming a patent pool. But lack of support from the major IP contributors appears to have doomed the effort.

Video: How Per-Title Encoding Works

Streaming Learning Center Principal Jan Ozer explains per-title encoding and rates the different per-title encoding technologies in this clip from his presentation at Streaming Media East 2019.

Review: Grown Up Microsoft Stream Is Ready for Business

Once an underfeatured and clumsy beta release, enterprise video platform Microsoft Stream is now an excellent solution for companies that rely on Office 365.

Discover the Six FFmpeg Commands You Can’t Live Without

Anyone who does performance or benchmark testing, please take a look: The six commands in this article help with essential tasks that crop up in any studio or encoding facility.

Review: Telestream Wirecast 12

If you missed the last few upgrades to Wirecast, Telestream's multicam live video production and streaming platform, you've missed a lot, as Wirecast has gained significant functionality while retaining its high degree of usability.

Announcing the Swift Death of Per-Title Encoding, 2015-2019

Once revolutionary, pre-title encoding was replaced by shot-based encoding and then context aware encoding. Here's how to evaluate vendors when choosing a solution.

How to Stream With a Portable Encoder to Facebook Live

With a small piece of hardware and the right service, streaming to Facebook Live is a cinch. Here's a step-by-step guide that makes the whole process easy.

How to Protect Your Content With DRM

Lock it down. If you're streaming proprietary or premium online video, it's time to take the step up to true digital rights management protection. Here's how to get started.

Buyers' Guide to Live Transcoding 2019

Whether it's enterprise, ecommerce, news, or gaming, it feels like everyone is rushing to go live. Here's a guide to services that will get any company streaming now.

Buyers' Guide to On-Prem Encoding 2019

Despite all the hype around the cloud, plenty of use cases still call for on-prem video encoding. Here's what to look for when choosing a solution.

HEVC IP Owners Are Killing the Golden Goose Over Royalties

Demos and conversations at Streaming Media East showed that HEVC is an excellent technology, and there's real anger around its disfunctional royalty policies.

Work in Parallel to Streamline the VQ Measurement Workflow

There's a long way to run video quality measurement tasks and a shorter way. As our columnist learned, it's never too late to learn a more efficient system.

NAB 2019: Brightcove Talks Cost Savings and QoE Improvements From Context-Aware Encoding

Per-title encoding is on the way out as Brightcove and others demonstrate the value of a more holistic approach. Streaming Media's Jan Ozer interviews Brightcove's Yuriy Reznic at NAB 2019.

NAB 2019: Telestream Talks Cloud Transcoding and Hybrid Workflows

When Telestream Vantage customers need a large video library encoded in a hurry, they can now turn to a hybrid cloud option. Streaming Media's Jan Ozer and Telestream's Ken Haren discuss Vantage Cloud Port on the show floor at NAB 2019.

NAB 2019: LiveU Explains What 5G Will Mean for the Future of Cellular Bonding

In this interview from NAB 2019, LiveU clears up some of the hype around 5G (it won't make an impact until next year and there's no special health risk) and talks about the testing it's already doing with 5G modems.

NAB 2019: Twitch Talks VP9, AV1 and its Five-Year Encoding Roadmap

Twitch uses a head-and-tail encoding strategy where popular content (the head) is encoded one way and less popular content (the tail) another. In this interview, a Twitch engineer explains what's on the video gaming powerhouse's five-year roadmap.

NAB 2019: NGCodec Talks Hardware-Based High-Quality Live Video Encoding

Streaming Media's Jan Ozer and NGCodec's Oliver Gunasekara discuss NGCodec's live HEVC 4k60 encoder, and why the company was wrong about the future of H.264.

NAB 2019: Phenix Talks Low Latency Solutions for the Oscars and Online Betting

Streaming Media's Jan Ozer interviews Phenix Technologies' Kyle Bank on the show floor at NAB 2019, and hears why low-latency CMAF isn't good enough for Phenix's demanding customers.

NAB 2019: Encoding.com Talks About its 2019 Global Media Format Report

Streaming Media's Jan Ozer and Encoding.com's Greg Heil discuss findings from the 2019 Global Media Format report, such as why better codecs don't always find wide adoption.

NAB 2019: NETINT Talks High-Density H.265 Encoding

Streaming Media's Jan Ozer and NETINT's Ray Adensamer discuss NETINT's Codensity T400, which is aimed at companies that need to do large live video encoding jobs at scale.

NAB 2019: NPAW Talks Analytics and Quality of Engagement

At NAB, NPAW showed off its new smart ads service, which not only measures whether or not an ad is delivered but looks at its streaming quality and how it impacts overall viewer engagement.

NAB 2019: Epic Labs Talks LightFlow Per-Title Encoding

Epic Labs debuted LightFlow, one of the most exciting services to break at this year's NAB. LightFlow combines per-title encoding with network modeling, as well as per-device-type encoding. In this video interview, Epic Labs founder and CEO Alfonso Peletier explains the benefits it offers.

NAB 19 Encoding and QoE Highlights: Here's What Mattered

See you later, per-title encoding. There's a new system in town and it's called context-aware encoding. Learn which companies unveiled CAE solutions at NAB, as well as other streaming breakthroughs.

Tutorial: How to Create Data-Driven Titles in Adobe Premiere Pro

Data-driven title templates deployed in Adobe Premiere Pro CC 2019 are a powerful tool that will help most editors. In this tutorial, you'll learn what data-driven templates are, where to find some, and how to apply and customize them.

H.264 Continues to Dominate, and AV1 Is Looking for a Day Job

The annual Global Media Format Report is out from Encoding.com, and it's essential reading for streaming produceres looking for hard data on the state of video formats, codecs, and DRM.

NAB '19: Netflix and Intel Release SVT-AV1 Codec as Open Source

Capable of real-time 4K/60p 10-bit encoding when running on Intel Xeon Scalable processors and Intel Xeon D processors, the the SVT-AV1 codec represents an order of magnitude acceleration of AV1 encoding.

Buyers' Guide to Video Quality Metrics

Video quality measurement is more crucial than ever. In this buyers' guide, we'll identify the most commonly used metrics and discuss tools that deploy them.

No Content Royalties in Sisvel VP9/AV1 Patent Pools

Sisvel's Video Codec Licensing Platform will employ a "committed volume scheme" rather than a royalty cap, according to CEO Mattia Fogliacco, who did not rule out royalties on software-based encoding

Sisvel Launches Patent Pools for VP9 and AV1

The licenses cover devices such as smartphones, computers, TVs, set-top boxes, and graphics cards, but not encoded content—at least for now.

Buyers' Guide to Per-Title Encoding

Per-title encoding is now a required feature on most encoding platforms. Here's an overview of the features to look for, and how to get the most out of them

Video: How to Find the Optimal Data Rate for Your Video

Streaming Learning Center's Jan Ozer discusses per-title encoding strategies including constant rate factor (CRF) encoding in this clip from his presentation at Streaming Media West 2018.

Good News: AV1 Encoding Times Drop to Near-Reasonable Levels

The first tests of AV1 showed glacial encoding times that seriously detracted from the codec's usability. But since then encoding times have improved enough that AV1 is almost usable—and we've got the charts to prove it.

Video: Objective Quality Metrics--What You Need to Know

Streaming Learning Center's Jan Ozer lays out the basics of objective quality metrics for encoding assessments in this clip from his presentation at Streaming Media West 2018.

How to Automate FFmpeg and Bento4 With Bash Scripts

With just a few beginner-level scripts, you can encode and package multiple filds to HLS and DASH output using open source tools.

What Is Streaming?

A high-level view of state of streaming media in 2019, and the concepts and and technologies that make it work.

Solutions Abound for High-Volume Live Video Cloud Transcoding

Streaming Media West provided a look at new options for demanding live cloud transcoding jobs. Here's a rundown for those who couldn't be there.

Tutorial: Fixing Flawed Audio in Adobe Creative Cloud

Suffering from common audio problem? Read this entry-level tutorial to learn how to remove transient noises like pops and clicks, clean up pervasive background noises, and punch up weak-sounding audio.

A Video Codec Licensing Update

The fragmented, frustrating future of HEVC licensing dominated discussion at the Media Coding Industry Forum's recent meeting, which attempted to influence licensing for the upcoming Versatile Video Codec.

Elecard Video Quality Estimator: Review

This video analysis tool—VideoQuest for short—offers deeper metrics and is more configurable than others on the market, especially when exploring the differences between two encoded files.

Creating a Recipe for Codec Success to Please All Palates

Looking back and the successes and misfires of H.264, HEVC, and VP9 show what the industry can expect from AV1 and VVC.

Inxpo Studio: Reviewing the Premium Tier Webinar Platform

For outstanding results with online marketing, sales, and training web webinars, look to Inxpo Studio. This review explains how to get up and running.

Unified Patents Challenges Velos Media Patent

The SEP Video Codec Zone also will provide companies targeted by HEVC IP owners with unique data and tools to negotiate fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory licenses

Demuxed '18 Highlights: The Future of Codecs and Compression

The annual conference for video engineers by video engineers produced must-watch sessions from Akamai, YouTube, Mux, and many others. Here's a survey of useful sessions, along with a link to the video library.

Video Engineering Summit: Netflix to Discuss VMAF's Future

In a presentation at Streaming Media West's Video Engineering Summit, Netflix software engineer Zhi Li will discuss the latest developments in VMAF, the quality metric Netflix developed and has open sourced.

At the Battle of the Codecs, Answers on AV1, HEVC, and VP9

Ahead of Streaming Media West, a meeting of codec experts offers new developments in leading-edge codecs, as well as field reports from companies already using them.

Review: Subjectify.us, a Site for Subjective Video Comparisons

Moscow State University makes subjective comparisons less time-consuming with an online service that enlists other people to watch and rank videos.

New Codecs Are Coming; Here's How to Evaluate Codec Evaluations

When comparing the video quality created by different codecs, consider the companies running the comparisons and the metrics they're offering.

HEVC, VP9, AV1, and VVC: Presenting a Codec Update in 11 Charts

Is AV1 all that people expect it to be? How much better would HEVC be doing with a fair royalty policy? Look to these charts for the answers to tomorrow's codec questions.

TechSmith Camtasia 2018 Review: More Evolution than Revolution

The addition of project themes and 60 fps editing makes the trusted screencam program more useful, and some will get rendering speed improvements.

Time to Start Testing: FFmpeg Turns 4.0 and Adds AV1 Support

AV1 delivers equivalent quality to HEVC, but with a lower data rate. For now, though, it's slow. A five-second clip took 23 hours and 46 minutes to encode.

Behind the Scenes at Facebook Live: Architecting a Success

Facebook Live has changed the way publishers deliver live video. In this interview, learn about the tool's past, present, and future from two of the engineers responsible for creating it.

Jury Levels $7.7 Million Judgment Against Huawei for H.264 Patent Infringement

The settlement says that H.264-related charges are not limited by FRAND (Fair, Reasonable and Non-Discriminatory) requirements, and may have implications for all users of H.264 encode and decode capabilities, especially Android devices.

AV1: A First Look

FFmpeg 4.0 gives many video engineers their first chance to test the new AV1 codec against H.264, HEVC, and VP9. The results? In our tests, quality was impressive, but glacially slow encoding times make AV1 a non-starter for most publishers until hardware acceleration becomes available.

A Hybrid Approach Guides the Changing Face of On-Prem Encoding

Demand for on-prem encoding is waning, and vendors are responding with innovative hybrid approaches that offer the best of on-prem and the cloud.

Testing HEVC: Please Take a Moment to Help Measure Performance

Early testing of HEVC playback in HLS showed positive but inconsistent results. We need StreamingMedia.com readers to step up and help provide more data.

Return of the Codec Wars: A New Hope—a Streaming Summer Sequel

The rebel AV1 codec launched at NAB. Is it ready to use the force and go head-to-head with the galactic empire of H.264, HEVC, and VP9?

Video: Pros and Cons of Going Direct to Multiple Platforms with Live Encoding

Streaming Learning Center's Jan Ozer looks at the advantages and disadvantages of encoding directly to multiple social platforms in this clip from Live Streaming Summit at Streaming Media East 2018.

Per-Title Video Encoding: The Time to Get Started Is Now

Now widely available, per-title encoding makes whatever codec publishers are already using more efficient by creating a custom optimized encoding ladder.

How to Choose a Live Streaming Platform

There are more options available for live streaming. This guide will help you determine which services are right for your technical parameters and business goals.

What Does Netflix Know About Prime Time Video Streaming, Anyway?

Sometimes an industry benchmark—such as Netflix's ISP Speed Index—only tells half the story about video delivery. Before picking a codec, dig a little deeper.

How to Publish to Multiple Social Platforms Simultaneously Using Adobe Media Encoder

This tutorial demonstrates how to publish a single video to multiple social media and other websites from Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe Media Encoder.

How to Measure Video Encoding QoE

An insightful new service called Mux Data makes quality of experience monitoring and analysis easy. This illustrated guide explains how to use it when diagnosing problems big and small.

Buyers' Guide to Cloud VOD Encoding

When moving to the cloud, don't let price be the only consideration. This guide explains the different categories for cloud VOD encoding and the features to look for in each.

NAB Roundup: The State of HEVC, AV1, and Proprietary Codecs

H.264 still leads, HEVC is starting to gain traction, and AV1 had its coming-out party. To add to the confusion, other codecs offer alternatives to all three. Jan Ozer makes sense of all the codec news from this year's NAB.

NAB 2018: Bitmovin Talks Codec Comparison Test Findings

Bitmovin's Christian Feldmann talks with Streaming Media's Jan Ozer about the AV1 encoding quality gains the company found in comparison to HEVC

NAB 2018: Mux's Jon Dahl Talks QoE and Mux Video

Mux CEO Jon Dahl talks about the company's QoE flagship QoE product and Mux Video, a new API to video hosting and streaming.

NAB 2018: NGcodec Talks FPGA-Accelerated Encoding

NGcodec CEO Oliver Gunasekara talks about how his company uses field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) available on standard cloud computers to accelerate high-quality encoding of HEVC and VP9 video, and what this might mean for AV1.

NAB 2018: V-Nova Talks PERSEUS and Delivery Platforms

V-Nova co-founder and CEO Guido Meardi describes how his company has taken the PERSEUS codec launched three years ago and produced a finished product playable in all browsers and mobile devices, and many STB and OTT platforms.

NAB 2018: Reza Rassool Talks RealNetworks HD

RealNetworks CTO Reza Rassool discusses RealNetworks HD, a powerful, lightweight codec that's gained very substantial share in China and now is coming to the US. He also describes a report showing that his codec delivers better quality than HEVC.

NAB 2018: Capella Talks Software Encoding and Emerging Codecs

Streaming Media's Jan Ozer interviews Capella Systems' Ikuyo Yamada in the Capella booth at NAB and discusses HEVC, AV1, and Dolby Vision.

NAB 2018: Encoding.com Talks Real-World Use of HEVC and VP9

Jan Ozer spoke with Greg Heil, CEO and co-founder of encoding.com about the results of the Encoding.com Global Media Format Report (2017), particularly as it relates to the actual usage of HEVC and VP9 by Encoding.com customers.

NAB 2018: Beamr's Tom Vaughan Talks Emerging Codec Uptake

Streaming Media's Jan Ozer interviews Beamr VP of strategy Tom Vaughan in the Beamr booth at NAB 2018 about HEVC and AV1

NAB 2018: Netflix's Anne Aaron Talks AV1 Adoption

Streaming Media's Jan Ozer interviews Netflix' Anne Aaron at the AV1 Coming Out Party at NAB 2018, where she discusses Netflix' plans for the codec as well as how HEVC will continue to play a prominent role.

NAB 2018: The Alliance for Open Media Talks AV1 Launch

Streaming Media's Jan Ozer interviews Alliance for Open Media executive director Gabe Frost at NAB 2018, talking about AV1's launch, its future, and how it will likely co-exist with HEVC

NAB 2018: Mozilla Talks Daala, Firefox, and AV1

Mozilla researchers Nathan Egge and Michael Bebenita discuss Daala's role in the AV1 codec, and how a codec can be developed without stepping on third-party IP. They also discuss early performance numbers and when AV1 decode will be available in Firefox.

NAB 2018: Stefan Lederer Talks Bitmovin Toolbox

Streaming Media's Jan Ozer interviews Bitmovin CEO Stefan Lederer in the Bitmovin booth at NAB 2018 to talk about the company's $30 million funding, AV1, and its new machine learning-based encoding.

Video: Two Hardware Solutions for Streaming Directly to Multiple Platforms

Jan Ozer discusses simultaneous streaming to multiple platforms simultaneously using Matrox Monarch HDX and Teradek T-Rax at Live Streaming Summit West 2017.

Video: Pros and Cons of On-Premise Software-Based Streaming

Jan Ozer discusses bandwidth, latency, and other issues associated with on-prem and cloud-based streaming solutions in this clip from Live Streaming Summit West 2017.

AV1 Is Finally Here, but Intellectual Property Questions Remain

Today the Alliance for Open Media froze the AV1 bitstream and released an unoptimized software encoder and decoder; AV1 decode should arrive in several browsers and some content from member companies over the next few months, with hardware implementations in about a year.

Moscow State Updates VQMT With New Metrics

Moscow State University's Video Quality Measurement Tool was already good. Enhancements in the new version, including new metrics and the ability to run multiple analyses simultaneously, make it even better.

How to Create a Live HLS Feed With HEVC

It's not easy, but it can be done, as long as you have the right tool and know the tricks. Here are eight steps to success using Softvelum Nimble Streamer.

How to Live Stream to Multiple Destinations

Reaching multiple viewing platforms with a single live video stream used to be impossible, but not anymore. Here's how to do it with Switchboard Cloud.

HEVC Advance Cuts Content Fees on Streaming

HEVC Advance is eliminating subscription and title-by-title royalty fees for non-physical content distribution, and it's adding reduced royalty rates for low-end consumer devices.

Facebook Introduces New 360°/VR Video Quality Metric

VR and 360° video has all of the compression-related issues of flat video, and then some. Facebook's new metrics, called SSIM360 and 360QVM, might simplify quality analysis for developers in the future, particularly if Facebook open sources the metrics.

Buyers' Guide to Per-Title Encoding 2018

If you're not already using per-title encoding, it's time. Here's a guide to choosing the tool that's best for you.

Buyers' Guide to Live Encoders 2018

While nearly any encoder can connect to any streaming service, some encoders make it easier than others. Here's how to choose the right tool for the job.

The Future of HEVC Licensing Is Bleak, Declares MPEG Chairman

Thanks to a fractured HEVC licensing system companies no longer have the financial incentive to innovate, but Leonardo Chiariglione suggests steps to reverse the damage.

AV1 Beats VP9 and HEVC on Quality, if You've Got Time, says Moscow State

Latest codec quality comparison study finds AV1 tops on quality, but far behind on speed, and that VP9 beats out HEVC. Moscow State also launched Subjectify.us, a new service for subjectively comparing video quality.

Three Truths About Virtual Reality Success From a VR Novice

The creativity behind immersive VR filmmaking is only matched by the software engineering creativity that makes this type of video possible.

Wowza's Anthony Lazaro Talks ClearCaster and Pro 1080p Streaming to Facebook Live

Jan Ozer and Wowza's Anthony Lazaro discuss the development, strategy, current features, and product roadmap for the Wowza ClearCaster, including support for professional 1080p streaming to Facebook Live.

HEVC in HLS: 10 Key Questions for Streaming Video Developers

Many who heard that Apple is adding support for HEVC playback in HTTP Live Streaming were left with more questions than answers. Here's what developers need to know.

Apple Joins Alliance for Open Media: What Does it Mean?

While Apple's technical motives might be simple, their strategic motives appear more complicated: If it wants to build a video service that competes with Netflix and Amazon, it has to deliver to all devices, not just its own.

Review: Wowza ClearCaster

If you absolutely, positively have to stream a successful live event on Facebook Live, ClearCaster is very definitely worth a very hard look.

Divideon Creates xvc, an HEVC Codec With Reasonable Pricing

The surprise royalty payments on HEVC have some publishers looking for alternatives. Learn how one company created a better codec price plan.

Roundup: Simple and Affordable Videoconferencing Solutions

If you perform enough interviews for live streaming, before long you'll want to interview someone who's not at your location. For this roundup, we tested three videoconferencing solutions: vMix Call, Telestream Wirecast Rendezvous, and NewTek TalkShow.

How to Choose and Use Objective Video Quality Benchmarks

If you're not using a video quality measurement tool, you're behind the curve. Here's a look at the most popular tools and how they work.

Apple Got It Wrong: Encoding Specs for HEVC in HLS

Adding HEVC to your HLS streams is looking like a no brainer, but if you decide to do so, you may not want to take Apple's HEVC encoding recommendations verbatim. You'll deliver noticeably higher quality video if you follow the advice detailed below.

HEVC in HLS: How Does It Affect Device Performance?

If you're adding HEVC to your HLS video, you're likely concerned about the playback frame rate and battery live on the iPhones, iPads, and computers to which you're delivering. We tested a range of devices, and found the CPU impact to be negligible on most of them.

One Title at a Time: Comparing Per-Title Video Encoding Options

Save on bandwidth and keep costs down: Per-title video encoding solutions let publishers break free from fixed encoding ladders. Explore the benefits of four methods.

Status Update: Encrypted Media Extensions and the Future of DRM

While publishers wait for a single content encryption system that works across all browsers, standards bodies debate the future of EME. Here's what rights management will look like in a post-plugin world.

Review: Blackmagic Design Web Presenter

Blackmagic Web Presenter ($495) is a standalone, dual-input capture device that can make SDI or HDMI sources look like a webcam for input into Skype or any livestreaming software program.

Comparing Quality Metrics Up and Down the Encoding Ladder

How can publishers compare video quality at different resolutions? There's the theoretically correct answer and then there's how it's generally done.

Demuxed: A Video Engineer's Nirvana

This year's Demuxed event was jam-packed with 19 speakers covering topics including HDR, AV1, per-title encoding, low latency, optimization, and more.

The Changing Face (and Price) of the On-Prem Video Encoder

The last few years have seen huge changes in how video encoding gets done, and that means new pricing options. Explore the various choices before making a decision.

Tutorial: Streaming Video Conferences with Telestream Wirecast Rendezvous

This tutorial details how to stream video conferences using the new Rendezvous feature introduced in Telestream Wirecast 8.

MediaMelon QBR Review: Optimizing Video Streams One-by-One

MediaMelon says it saves bandwidth costs by analyzing individual encoded streams and delivering each at its ideal visual quality. We put those claims to the test.

W3C Announces Publication of EME as a "Recommendation or Web Standard;" EFF Leaves

Upon publication, the Electronic Freedom Foundation resigned from the World Wide Web Consortium over lack of covenant protecting developers from potential intellectual property lawsuits under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act

Wowza ClearCaster Streams up to 1080p to Facebook Live

Wowza's first hardware appliance is a rack-mountable unit that can stream 1080p with real-time stream monitoring using Facebook Live's new Live API

Bitmovin Survey: HLS Still Dominates, but DASH is on the Rise

Bitmovin surveyed respondents across the globe, finding the lowest DASH usage in the U.S. and the highest in APAC and LATAM.

AV1: A Status Update

Netflix and YouTube could start using AV1 as soon as early 2018, while hardware implementations will take much longer.

One to Many: Streaming Live Video to Multiple Platforms

If you're delivering a live video stream, you likely want to publish it on as many platforms as possible. Here's the best hardware and software to pull it off.

Measure it, Improve it: For Video Publishers, QoE and QoS are Critical

Today's market is too competitive for subpar experiences. If companies aren't monitoring quality of service and quality of experience, they're likely losing viewers—and profits.

AV1 and Legal Challenges: Does the Codec Have a Future?

Some of the best minds in the streaming industry say AV1 will be challenged by infringement claims, but some of the best minds could be wrong.

MainConcept SDK Creates Manifest Files for HEVC/H.264 HLS Video

Apple adding HEVC support to HLS this fall is a huge step forward for the codec. An announcement from MainConcept makes file creation easier.

NewTek Intros NDI 3 and NDI PTZ Camera

With NDI version 3.0 NewTek extends the technology to cameras and converter/capture devices, where it will supplement or supplant technologies like 3G SDI and HDMI

New FCC Caption Requirements: What You Need to Know

New captioning requirements went into effect on July 1 for live, near-live, and prerecorded broadcast video that is put online.

New Report from Wowza Evaluates Live Streaming Latency

The report, "Create the Streaming Media Experience Users Want," focuses on time to first frame and end-to-end latency in five markets: user-generated content, online gaming, sports, news, and radio.

Cellular Bonding for Live Event Streaming: The State of The Art

If you take the steps and follow the guidelines provided within this article, you should be able to configure, acquire, and use a functional cellular bonding system that reliably gets your signal up to the cloud, and to multiple output points from there.

Going Low: The Encoding Secrets for Small Sizes With High Quality

Netflix's compact mobile download files look surprisingly great. Here's how video creators make their own low-bitrate files look just as impressive.

Review: Telestream Wirecast Gear

Successfully using all of the desktop mixing features in Telestream Wirecast features requires a powerful, finely tuned computer. Telestream recently released its own series of bundled systems, Wirecast Gear. In this review, we put a test system through its paces.

The HEVC Soap Opera: Keeping Track of Players and Costs

This isn't exactly the summer reality show many are looking for. The way HEVC patent pools are growing is likely to make AV1 an especially popular option.

Deluxe's Martin Zeichner on HDR

Deluxe Encore Post colorist Martin Zeichner discusses the differences between Dolby Vision and HDR10

Netflix Talks Dolby Vision and HDR10

Netflix shares its secrets for encoding Dolby Vision and HDR10, as well as the technical requirements for shooting and editing Netflix video titles

Blackest Blacks: Ten Things to Know About Producing HDR

Shake your viewers all night long with the best-looking high dynamic range video imaginable. For those about to color grade, we salute you.

Apple Embraces HEVC: What Does it Mean for Encoding?

At its Worldwide Developer Conference this week, Apple announced it would support HEVC/H.265 in High Sierra and iOS 11 in a combination of hardware and software decoding, depending on the device. Here are the details of how Apple will implement it.

NAB 17 Codec Roundup

Netflix shared its encoding secrets, while Beamr, Capella, Haivision, Harmonic, Hybrid, and V-Nova showed off advances in HEVC, HDR, cloud encoding, and more

VP9 Pricing: When Does Adding VP9 Lead to Bandwidth Cost Savings?

A conference question asks when it makes economic sense for a video provider to add a VP9 transcode? We scoped out the variables and did the math.

Review: TechSmith Camtasia 9

Camtasia remains an indispensable tool for screencam producers. As an editor, it's ideal for beginners and even pros seeking to quickly produce simpler, business-oriented features that benefit from Camtasia's attention-grabbing effects.

Bitmovin Pushes AV1 Forward, Joins Alliance for Open Media

Bitmovin announced that it's adding AV1 to its VOD and live encoding service, and will demonstrate live AV1 encoding at NAB. It's still too early to assess whether AV1's performance claims are true, though.

Buyers' Guide to DRM 2017

How it works, the leading technologies, licensing options, business models, and pricing: This guide includes everything content owners need to know to secure their valuable assets.

The State of Codecs 2017

Licensing fees may stall HEVC adoption, while AV1 is nowhere to be seen and VP9 is on the rise. Will 2017 be at eventful as the previous two years?

INXPO STUDIO Moves From Flash to HTML5, Adds Multiple Presenter Capability

Webcasting platform automatically shifts speaker to a larger window, making it easier for viewers to see who's talking

How to: Dynamic Packaging

Need to reach the widest possible audience with the fewest encoding steps? Here's how nonprogrammers can use Wowza Streaming Engine to serve both live and on-demand video.

How to Assemble the Perfect Production Platform for Facebook Live

Streaming live video to Facebook is easy, but if you want professional results you'll need to build a professional system first. Here are the best products to consider.

HLS Still "Industry Standard," Says Encoding.com Report

Though DASH usage went up by more than 50% over 2015, HLS is still the dominant ABR format

Bitmovin Introduces Managed On-Prem Encoding Service

The flexible new service runs on the same software stack as Bitmovin's cloud encoding service

Buyers' Guide to Blocking the Ad Blockers 2017

The best ad-blocking strategy doesn't rely on technology alone, but looks at the root causes that made viewers want to block ads in the first place.

V-Nova Perseus: A Progress Report

Hybrid Perseus is now using HEVC as the base layer, and V-Nova is working on adding inter-frame compression to the codec.

Buyers' Guide to Quality Analytics 2017

For both video encoding and quality of service, content providers need to make sure their viewers get the best experience possible. Here's how to select a quality control service.

Best Practices for Encoding and Delivering Dolby Audio to Apple Devices

Over the course of this three-part tutorial series, we'll show you how to deliver Dolby Audio via HLS and play it back on any audio endpoint, including device speakers, headphones, or external sound systems via AirPlay or HDMI.

YouTube Stops H.264 4K Encoding; Will Apple Get on Board?

Apple Safari has never supported VP8 or VP9, but a move by Google's YouTube pressures it to do so: Safari users can't see new 4K videos on YouTube.

The Changing State of MPEG DASH Royalties: How Bad Will it Get?

MPEG LA's recent announcement of a DASH royalty pool is the first such royalty on free internet video. And this is only the beginning.

Facebook Live Case Studies

We spoke with 15 publishers including PBS, The YES Network, and TechCrunch to find out exactly how they're broadcasting to Facebook Live, and the technology they're using to do it.

Facebook Live: A Progress Report After One Year of Growth

How are organizations such as PBS and TechCrunch using Facebook Live to reach and grow their audiences? The platform has been with us for a year now, so it's time to check in.

What the Nokia-Apple Lawsuit Means for the Streaming Industry

If Nokia's standards infringement lawsuit prevails over Apple, the costs could be steep to any company relying on H.264 or even HEVC. Here are the issues at stake.

CMAF Is Halfway There, But That's Not Far Enough: Commentary

The Common Media Application Format (CMAF) hits a predictable roadblock with encryption, where it enables two incompatible modes. This has one columnist feeling pessimistic.

Containing Costs: How Publishers Can Save Money on ABR Encoding

Many companies spend too much on adaptive bitrate encoding. In turns out there's a pricey way to go about it and a cheaper way. Dynamic packaging to the rescue!

Review: Matrox Monarch LCS

The Matrox Monarch LCS is an inexpensive dual-input lecture capture solution with two output channels that can be independently set for recording and/or streaming.

HEVC Advance Makes Some Software Royalty Free

HEVC Advance says it hopes to speed the adoption of HEVC decoders among the installed base of computers and devices by making some software downloads royalty free

MPEG-DASH Royalties: What We Know So Far

Who will owe royalties on MPEG-DASH? We spoke to MPEG LA to find out. Bottom line: If you use Media Presentation Descriptions (MPDs) in a player or app, it's time to call your attorneys.

The Changing Cloud Encoding Market Leads to Cost Savings

New offerings in cloud video encoding let companies both large and small find the option that makes the most sense for them.

Benchmarking PCs, Capture Cards, and Software Mixers for HD Capture and Streaming

To determine how powerful a system it takes to produce and deliver live event streams, we tested a range of computers, capture devices, and live streaming programs. Read on for the results.

Livestream Mevo Review: An Essential Tool for Social Video

While it has a few rough edges, the hotly anticipated Livestream Mevo lives up to the hype. Create the appearance of a multi-camera shoot with one small 4K device. After testing, we call it a must-have.

The Quality Comparison Conundrum

The sheer number of video quality measurement tools makes it difficult to choose the right metric. Here's a quick overview of some of the options and what they offer.

Review: Livestream Mevo

If you frequently produce live or on-demand videos for social media sites, Livestream Mevo can help you produce more polished and engaging videos. While there are some rough edges in version 1.0, and there is a learning curve for operation, Mevo is an essential tool for any organization seeking to leverage the power of video in its social media marketing.

Netflix Finds x265 20% More Efficient than VP9

Netflix compared 5,000 clips from 500 titles in its library using the x264, x265, and libvpx codecs. x265's implementation of HEVC was the clear winner on quality and efficiency, but whether that matters in light of compatibility and licensing issues isn't so obvious.

Review: Capella Systems Cambria FTC Offers Per-Title Encoding

The benefits of per-title optimization aren't just for the major players, anymore. Streaming Media reviews the first solution for smaller content owners and finds the results promising.

How to Stream to Facebook Live

Anyone can broadcast live on Facebook, but if you want to deliver live video from via a computer with streaming or encoding software, read on.

Netflix Adding TLS to Protect User Privacy

The Netflix Open Connect team announced earlier this week that it would be using Transport Level Security. Here's a look at its innovative approach to protecting viewing data at scale.

First Look: Microsoft Stream Preview Version

Microsoft's new enterprise YouTube isn't ready for prime time yet, but it offers several impressive features making it one to watch over the next 12 to 18 months

Review: EasyLive's Video-Mixer-in-the-Cloud Simplifies Operations

By creating a video mixer that's accessible from any location, EasyLive promises no-fuss live streaming to multiple platforms. Here's how it performed in our testing.

When it Comes to HTML5 Playback, the Devil's in the Details

The promise of a unifying standard to simplify our lives is attractive, but putting it into practice is another thing. Here's how one HTML5 video project got messy in a hurry.

NDI and Live Titling

Anyone who hasn't been watching the live titling space has missed the NDI revolution. As a result, their productions might be falling behind in terms of graphics quality. This article explains what NDI is and how it works, then explores how it enhances the titling capabilities of the NewTek TriCaster, Telestream Wirecast, and vMix Go.

What Is DRM?

The move away from plugins like Flash and Silverlight has made video delivery easier, but it's also made DRM more complicated. Here's what DRM looks like today, along with a discussion of the leading DRM technologies and DRM service providers

Review: V-Nova Perseus: Does its Compression Live Up to the Hype?

London-based V-Nova has made some impressive claims about Perseus, its compression technology. Streaming Media's preliminary testing shows that it lives up to some of them.

The Decline of the Standards-Based Codec—and Good Riddance

Online is different from broadcast and doesn't need formal standards. HEVC isn't considered by many online video streamers, as the future belongs to VP9 and AV1.

Netflix Introduces New Quality Metric

Netflix announced the open-source availability of the Video Multimethod Assessment Fusion, which it's now using instead of PSNR to analyze the quality of transcodes in its vast catalog

VP9 Finally Comes of Age, But Is it Right for Everyone?

Publishers and encoding companies alike are beginning to embrace VP9, Google's open source codec. Here's how it stacks up on quality and data rates.

What Is AV1?

Scheduled to be the first codec released by the Alliance for Open Media, AV1 is positioned to replace VP9 and compete with HEVC. While we don't know many details yet, the backing of the Alliance should give AV1 a significant competitive advantage.

What Is VP9?

VP9 is the open-source codec from Google, and provides a royalty-free alternative to HEVC. It's more efficient than H.264, and while it's less efficient than HEVC, it compares well on quality.

Netflix Discusses VP9-Related Development Efforts

Once counted out, VP9 is on the rise, with support from Netflix, JW Player, Brightcove, and more. In this interview, David Ronca of Netflix talks about VP9 savings, encoding, and testing.

Eventstream Review: Profit From Paid Live Online Video Events

The combination of Eventstream, Eventbrite, and YouTube Live lets anyone charge for a live webinar, generating leads they can use to grow their business. While a strong contender, the help system could be a lot more helpful.

The Cost of the Cloud for Video Encoding: Crunching the Numbers

Cloud encoding companies offer software-as-a-service and platform-as-a-service options. Here's how to decide when to go with the cloud, and which option is right for your needs.

How to Produce Virtual Reality Video for Online Delivery

In this series of articles, learn the tools and workflows used in a recent testing project to see how VR compares to 2D video and audio as an educational tool.

A Progress Report: The Alliance for Open Media and the AV1 Codec

The cross-industry open source Alliance welcomed new members and is making strides with AV1. Meanwhile, HEVC's future seems more uncertain than ever.

How to Choose the Optimal Data Rate for Live Streaming

As a rule, higher data rates equal better quality. But there comes a tipping point where the extra quality might not be worth the extra cost.

How to Encode and Deliver to Multiple ABR Formats

Use a single adaptive group, packaged differently for different targets, to keep encoding and storage costs down.

How to Choose a Live Streaming Schema

Whether you want a provider to handle everything or want to add cloud transcoding and packaging to an existing workflow, these are the questions you need to ask.

Vanguard Acquisition Strengthens Beamr's Market Position

Beamr CTO Dror Gill discusses how Vanguard's encoding and optimization technologies will complement Beamr's offerings and allow for even larger bitrate savings than either company is able to achieve on its own

How to Use Objective Quality Measurement Tools

Objective quality benchmarks provide exceptionally useful data for any producer wanting to substitute fact for untested opinions.

The State of Video Codecs 2016

After a year of uncertainty, HEVC seems poised to finally make inroads, if not for 4K then for bandwidth reduction.

Buyer's Guide to DRM 2016

A simple guide through the complex landscape of multiple DRM technologies. Learn what DRM is, and how to choose and deploy the best solution for each platform.

Conference Research Tests Adaptive Video and Quality Benchmarks

Video encoding professionals should take note of four papers presented at the recent International Symposium on Electronic Imaging. Read on for a detailed assessment.

Buyer's Guide to Enterprise YouTube Platforms 2016

An enterprise YouTube system lets businesses organize and share videos with employees and partners. Read this to learn the features that separate the best from the rest.

Buyer's Guide to Webcasting Platforms 2016

Customization, mobile compatibility, and marketing features are just a few of the checkboxes to tick off.

Technicolor Withdraws from the HEVC Advance Patent Pool

Is this an isolated event or the start of something big? Will it lead to a royalty decrease? And what does it mean for the streaming industry?

Joicaster Review: A Simple Platform for Live Video Distribution

Affordable and easy to operate, Joicaster is a useful syndication tool for streaming live video to multiple destinations. Read our rave review.

The Future of Video Marketing: Dive Into Automation Programs

The right marketing automation program can tie a company's online video campaigns together and turn shoppers into buyers. Learn what these programs offer, how they work with OVPs, and how to choose the right one.

How Netflix Pioneered Per-Title Video Encoding Optimization

One-size-fits-all encoding doesn't produce the best possible results, so Netflix recently moved to per-title optimization. Learn why this improves video quality and saves on bandwidth, but isn't the right model for every company.

Life After Flash: Will Producers Move to HLS, DASH, or Both?

While it's clear that Flash's time is coming to an end, it's less clear what will replace it. A survey shows DASH support, but its real-world use is around one percent.

HEVC Advance Releases Revised Licensing Terms

After widespread criticism of its initial royalty proposal, HEVC Advance has reduced royalty rates and decoupled them from attributable revenue, as well as provided incentives for early adoption and a royalty credit for small publishers.

HEVC's Journey in 2015: Going Downhill and Gaining Speed

This year, HEVC has gone from the heir apparent to an unmanageable mess. Meanwhile, open source codec efforts are focused and progressing. What happened?

Moscow State Releases First HEVC Comparison

In addition to comparing HEVC codecs, report also compares HEVC to VP9 and x264, with potentially controversial results

SSIMWave SQM Review: Frustrating Video Quality Measurement

For compressionists who want to see the image quality differences a tool measures, SSIMWave can feel incomplete. An upcoming update may change that.

Choosing a Capture Card for Multicamera Live Production

To choose the best capture card for mixing live events with PC-based software, pursue multi-part analysis. Learn what features to look for in this article.

Ustream Review: The Live Streaming Service Evolves for New Areas

Not just a live streamer, Ustream supports video-on-demand, enterprise-level security, and lead generation. Its strength, however, is still with live video.

Encoding 2020: Experts Predict the Future of Video Encoding

A Streaming Media survey shows big changes afoot in the next five years, with a move to the cloud, away from Flash, and towards 4K and HEVC.

HEVC Advance Adds MediaTek as a Member and Plans to Adjust Fees

MLB Advanced Media says the proposed royalty isn't reasonable. With pressure mounting, the new patent pool promises an adjustment.

How to Keep Enterprise Video Safe and Secure…Most of the Time

The CEO wants company videos shared in-house, but doesn't want trade secrets ending up on YouTube. Here's a primer on video security for the enterprise.

Is the Alliance for Open Media Taking a Risk in Codec Creation?

In this Q&A with two video IP and technology investment banking professionals, we ask about patent risk, VP 8/9, and the possibility of a third HEVC patent group forming.

Intel Updates Media Server Studio and More

New release includes HEVC support in the Premiere version; Intel has also updated Video Pro Analyzer and Stress Bitstreams and Encoder products

Amazon, Google, and More Working on Royalty-Free Codec

The Alliance for Open Media—including Amazon, Cisco, Google, Intel, Microsoft, Mozilla, and Netflix—hopes to deliver a video codec for internet delivery by late 2016 or early 2017; Cisco's Thor technology will be included

Commentary: The Streaming Industry Gangs up on HEVC with the Alliance for Open Media

With Google, Amazon, Cisco, Microsoft, and others joining forces in the Alliance for Open Video to create a new royalty-free codec, an alternative to HEVC (and its controversial royalties) is on the way. Does this spell the beginning of the end for HEVC?

HEVC Advance Royalties: Onerous or Not?

A cost analysis reveals that while HEVC Advance's royalty structure makes HEVC a no-go for TVOD services like M-GO, an SVOD service like Netflix would achieve enough bandwidth savings to offset the royalty payment

HEVC Advance: What Do the Royalties Mean for Video Publishers?

While there have been some heated arguments against the royalties announced by the new patent group, the payments appear to be appropriate. We break it down with real-world numbers.

An Unhappy Surprise: MPEG LA Is Forming a Patent Pool for DASH

Just when Media Source Extensions and Encrypted Media Extensions are making HTML5-based video playback a reality, DASH royalties threaten to derail it.

Choosing a Streaming Appliance

Need a streaming appliance for live event production? Read this to learn the history of the live streaming appliance market, then discover the features that matter when making a purchase.

HTML5 Comes of Age: It's Finally Time to Tell Flash Good-bye

Media source extensions, encrypted media extensions, and DASH offer new possibilities for player-based DRM and increase HTML5's appeal to video publishers.

Video Quality Measurement Requires Objective and Subjective Tests

How can video compressionists assess the quality of different files? Only by combining objective mathematical comparisons with their own professional judgments.

HEVC Advance Misses First Milestone

The second HEVC patent pool promised to announce licensing terms and royalty rates last month, but its press conference was cancelled at the last minute, and no information has been made available.

HDR Is Here—But Don't Rush Out to Buy a New TV Just Yet

If you enjoyed the Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD standards war, you'll love the competing standards for High Dynamic Range. The rest of us, though, would be wise to wait until things shake out before upgrading to enjoy the undeniably better picture HDR has to offer.

Review: Bitcodin, a Cloud Video Encoding Service From Bitmovin

While Bitcodin is still in development and has a few rough edges, it displayed impressive performance and quality in our testing.

Review: Nideo Professional Video Hosting

Smaller companies that need an online video platform for hosting should consider Nideo, which stands apart thanks to its compact, attractive player and comprehensive analytics.

Survey: The Future of Encoding

What will the video encoding landscape look like in 2020? We're conducting a survey to find out, and in exchange for your input, you'll be entered to win a $100 Amazon gift card.

Ad Blocking Technology: It’s Not User Choice, It’s Stealing

144 million people around the globe are using ad blockers to skip ads, and some of the biggest companies online are sitting back and letting it happen.

YouTube, On2, and the Economics of Ultra HD: Tallying the Costs

Why did Google purchase On2 Technologies back in 2010? Because encoding and streaming VP9 video is saving it tens of millions each year.

The Great UHD Codec Debate: Google's VP9 Vs. HEVC/H.265

Which delivers better quality, encoding time, and CPU performance—HEVC or VP9? We put them to the test to decide once and for all.

Review: Telestream Wirecast 6

With version 6, Telestream has converted its premier live production software application to 64-bit operation, as well as added playlists, social media support, input from iOS devices, and instant replay.

Review: vMix GO Portable Live Production Solution

Our reviewer puts the vMix GO to the test and finds it an affordable, portable, SDI-based live production and recording solution that uses the best software you've never heard of—although it does have a few rough edges.

New HEVC Patent Pool: What Are the Implications?

Last week, HEVC Advance announced it is forming a new patent pool in addition to the one offered by MPEG LA. While the new group—which will likely include Dolby, GE, Mitsubishi Electric, Philips, and Technicolor—did not announce licensing terms, past precedent indicates that the royalties won't likely be onerous for most encoding and decoding vendors, though how it will affect content publishers is less clear.

How to Package Video for Multiscreen Delivery

The video landscape is vast and fractured, so making sure that video plays on every screen requires careful planning. Here's what publishers need to know.

The State of Video Codecs 2015

H.264 still accounts for most video encoding today, but HEVC/H.265 and VP9 are beginning to make noise. What will 2015 bring?

How to Encode to HEVC: A Simple Guide for H.265 First-Timers

It's time to get started. Here's a look at best practices for encoding to H.265/HEVC with the MainConcept and x265 codecs

Buyer’s Guide to Live Video Encoders 2015

A range of factors—from video formats needed to encoder portability—will impact the decision-making process for a live streaming solution.

Buyer's Guide to Cloud-Based Video Encoding and Transcoding 2015

Encoding for VOD is very different from live transcoding. Here's what you need to know to find a service that serves your needs.

Sayonara Silverlight: How Panopto Switched to Flash and HTML5

In this exclusive interview, Panopto CEO Eric Burns offers the reasons his company left Silverlight behind for Flash video streaming with an HTML5 fallback.

Buyer’s Guide to On-Demand Encoders 2015

In the market for a VOD encoder? Learn the important product categories, the top choices in each, and the right time to upgrade to a more powerful encoder.

Commentary: Flash Is Dead Again (Yawn)

Sure, YouTube now defaults to HTML5 Video and VP9 for most browsers, but don't send flowers to Adobe just yet. Flash still has a lot of life left in it.

Encoding.com Report Offers Insights on Codecs, Formats, and Configurations

In its first report detailing which formats and codecs customers are producing, HLS and H.264 lead the way, and less than 5% of its customers are encoding 4K.

A New CEO Brings Big Product Changes to Sorenson Media

The encoding company's new CEO, Marcus Liassides, has been moving quickly, reorganizing the product lineup for today's broadcasters.

Tutorial: Capture and Stream Presentations with Epiphan Pearl

Epiphan Pearl is a small, dual-input, touchscreen-driven video recording and streaming device for lecture or presentation capture. This tutorial details how to stream and capture live presentations with Pearl.

The Changing Face of DRM: Where Do We Stand in 2015?

Digital rights management is more important than ever. Here's a look at the options available and how they can help you protect and monetize your content.

Review: Moscow State University Video Quality Measurement Tool

Never heard of it? Learn why we call this video encoding analysis tool invaluable, and a must-have for anyone serious about encoding or compression.

High-End Video Transcoder Shootout: Elemental Vs. Telestream

We've upgraded our testing methodology to accurately reflect what broadcasters and other high-volume video publishers ask of their encoding systems. Our first subjects: Elemental Server and Telestream Vantage Lightspeed Server.

3 Essential Tools to Own When Comparing Video Encoding Quality

When an encoding job is highly demanding, it takes powerful gear to create and judge all the files. Here are the right tools for the job.

The Case for VP9

HEVC might be getting all the attention, but Google's VP9 appears to match H.265 in quality and might play a bigger role in the transition from Flash to HTML5

Apple Supports H.265, But So Far Only in FaceTime on an iPhone 6

H.265 is coming to the Android operating system, as well, but it's nowhere to be seen on desktop or notebook computers.

Looking at the Future of Video Encoding With Sorenson Media

Sorenson introduced Squeeze 10 and Squeeze Server 3 today. We conducted a Q&A with Sorenson's general manager to hear how the company is responding to new formats and codecs.

How to Deploy Closed Captions

Whether it's to make your videos accessible to hearing-impaired viewers or to increase SEO, you should be captioning your videos. Here's a look at the tools and services you can use to get started.

Will MSE/EME/DASH Lead to Simpler Workflows? Don't Bet on It

What the online video industry needs is simple standards for reaching all viewers. But when have standards ever simplified online video?

Getting the Most Out of YouTube: 4 Companies Offer Best Practices

If you're publishing video, chances are you're putting at least some of it on YouTube. These four companies offer tips for making sure you're doing it right.

HEVC: Are We There Yet?

If you've spent any time at NAB or IBC, you'd think that HEVC is ready for prime time. The reality is that, for almost every use case, it's nowhere close.

The Cloud Vs. On-Prem Encoding Dilemma

As cloud encoding services have matured, more and more companies are switching or supplementing their on-premises efforts. Here's what some customers are doing.

Amazon Elastic Transcoder: Review

For broadcasters and high-volume producers, Amazon's Elastic Transcoder has too many limitations. For everyone else, it's an appealing, if flawed, solution.

MediaPlatform PrimeTime Review: A Sleek Enterprise YouTube

PrimeTime is an attractive Flash-based option with a clutter-free interface and lifecycle management, but it does have its share of rough edges

TalkPoint Convey Review: Making Webinars Simple

Running a webinar doesn't take IT expertise anymore. TalkPoint Convey is simple enough for beginners and offers a rich set of features -- although pricing is steep.

Don't Buy That UHD TV: It May Go Obsolete Faster Than You Think

Different encoding profiles and color issues mean that today's UHD sets won't play tomorrow's content. Buyers, avoid a costly mistake.

MPEG LA's HEVC Licensing Terms Are Flawed, Will Prevent Adoption

There's no reason for Adobe to add HEVC support to Flash, and that keeps HEVC from becoming relevant for general purpose streaming.

The ROI of Enterprise Webcasting: Justifying the Expense

Cost savings, new revenue opportunities, and extended reach all come into play when determining whether or not webcasting is worth the investment.

Review: Vidizmo EnterpriseTube

Looking for a corporate YouTube, an internal system to organize and stream company videos? This review tests the core features of EnterpriseTube's premium version.

eBay Embraces Enterprise YouTube

The online marketplace uses an enterprise YouTube solution from Qumu for all manner of internal communications, fostering engagement and encouraging innovation across all its divisions

The Codecs That Make UHD Video Possible: HEVC Vs. VP9

Which codec delivers better image quality? Which is more compatible? And what about Daala, the spoiler codec currently being developed from scratch?

Video for the Long Haul: Exploring Backhaul Options

When public IP just isn't reliable enough, it's time to turn to backhaul options such as cellmux, satellite, or fiber to get your video signal where it needs to go.

Yorktel Intros Yorkcast Services, Simplifies Enterprise Webcasts

Building on its years of enterprise video experience, Yorktel now offers a unified service that takes the complexity out of streaming webcasts and webinars.

Stream With Care: Simple Production Tips for Quality Results

Don't settle for lackluster video. Follow these tips when recording video and even low-resolution mobile streams will look good.

Review: Panopto Lecture Capture and Webcasting System

This software-as-a-service solution lets companies and educators create libraries of on-demand content, or stream live to employees or students. We find it well-conceived, but difficult with longer files.

Connesta Enables Cloud-Based Video Switching, Announces Teradek Partnership

Connesta's Cloud Control Room offers switching among an unlimited number of live and VOD inputs; Teradek buyers will get three free months of the service

Apple Changes Encoding Recommendations for HLS

Modifications to audio recommendations and segment size simplify things for producers across the board

A Buyer’s Guide to Field Encoders 2014

A wealth of options makes for tough choices. Here are the questions you need to ask to make sure you choose wisely.

Panopto Greatly Enhances Video Search Capabilities in Version 4.6

Tagging long videos is a chore, so let Panopto do it for you. The latest release includes automated speech recognition and optical character recognition.

How to Make the Move to HEVC

It's still early in the game, but here's everything you need to know about moving to the next-generation video codec.

How to Choose and Implement a Webcasting Solution

So you need to start webcasting—should you choose a webcast platform, a live streaming service provider, or a conferencing solution?

A Buyer’s Guide to Cloud Encoders

Here's what you need to know before you take your encoding to the cloud. (Hint: It's not about video quality.)

A Buyer’s Guide to Live Encoders

Considering producing a live event? Read this to learn the different live encoder categories, as well as the features to look for before buying.

A Buyer’s Guide to Live Streaming Services

From customization and video quality to branding and tech support, the options offered by numerous services vary widely, even if the basic functionality is the same.

How to Encode Video for HLS Delivery

If you need to deliver to mobile devices and via OTT platforms, you need to deliver HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). Apple provides plenty of advice for compressionists, but here are some tips and tricks for encoding and testing your HLS files

In Defense of MPEG LA

Patent pool organization MPEG LA continues to come under fire from the likes of Steve Forbes, but most of the criticism is based on false premises and ignores innovators' right to generate revenue from their work and investments

MPEG LA Announces Proposed HEVC Licensing Terms

The news is good for content owners and not so good for encoding/decoding vendors, but gives everyone a feel for how the issue will play out.

Telestream Wirecast 5: The Definitive Review

The newest version of this popular live video production tool offers significant improvements and is a no-brainer upgrade for existing customers.

How to Produce High-Quality H.264 Video Files

It's time for an H.264 tune-up. Lean how choose the right encoding tool and optimize H.264 encodes for ideal quality and device compatibility.

YouTube and VP9: A Made-for-Press-Release Event

YouTube demonstrating 4K video encoded with VP9 is all sizzle and no steak. Until hardware manufacturers and big names like Apple, Adobe, and Microsoft announce support, it's hard to take any of the noise too seriously.

First Look: Apple Compressor 4.1

A nice new interface and a boost in output quality make this a worthwhile upgrade. Just be prepared for a bumpy installation and a slow learning curve; there's nothing intuitive about it, as you'll see in this article and video tour.

Review: Brightcove Video Cloud Live

Brightcove customers should look to this new service for inexpensive real-time event transcoding, but several rough edges mar the experience.

Presenting the Ozer Paradox: Simple and Pricey Don't Go Together

Expensive products have complicated interfaces and inflexible features, while free applications like Handbrake can be used by anyone.

HEVC Likely to be Subject to Similar Royalty Structure as H.264

Or, What I Learned During My HEVC Presentation at Streaming Media West

New VLC Player Release Incorporates HEVC and VC9 Playback

VideoLAN's addition of HEVC, along with Rovi's addition of it in DivX 10, should help speed the codec's mainstream adoption

How-To: Calculating Outbound Bandwidth Requirements for Live Events

Outbound bandwidth used to be easy to calculate, but with more and more streams and encoding/transcoding alternatives, today it can be a challenge. Here are some tips to figure out how much you need for your event.

How to Create Google+ Hangouts On Air: A Complete Walkthrough

While producing a Google+ Hangout is easy, pulling in participants and keeping them engaged demands making many smart choices. Here's everything a Google+ host needs to know.

Cisco Open Sources H.264 for WebRTC

The announcement looks like a game-changer for WebRTC, but what does it mean for HTML5 playback in web browsers? Experts from Cisco and Mozilla provide the answers.

Tutorial: Capturing Soundboard Audio for Live Event Video

Corporate and event videographers need to know how to connect to an external microphone or soundboard. The process can be surprisingly challenging.

Review: Onstream Media Webcasting Service

Considering streaming a rich media broadcast? Read our Onstream Media review first. It earned high marks in our testing.

Onstream Vs. Livestream: Which Is Better for Online Events?

It's a battle between a webcasting service and a live streaming service. Learn the differences that set them apart.

Elemental Cloud: Streaming Media's Comprehensive Hands-On Review

Elemental is a strong choice for high-volume video publishers or those already using Elemental hardware, but it doesn't come at a bargain price.

Video Tutorial: Supporting HTML5 with Flash Fallback in Sorenson Squeeze 9

Sorenson Squeeze 9 offers a simple solution for delivering HTML5 video in H.264 or WebM with Flash fallback. As long as you don't need features like adaptive streaming, closed captions, or DRM, Squeeze 9 does the trick.

How to Webcast with YouTube Live

YouTube Live isn't yet available to all users, but Jan Ozer got early access and used it to stream a live webinar. Learn how to use it step-by-step.

Livestream Comes to Roku

Live streaming service provider waited until it could ensure "Netflix-like quality" on most channels before joining popular set-top box's lineup

Telestream Helps Launch Open Source x265/HEVC Project

Company teamed with MulticoreWare to help develop and promote an H.265/HEVC codec, building on the success of the x264 codec, and already claims encouraging data rate reductions for encoding

How to Produce Broadcast-Quality Events with the NewTek TriCaster 40, Part 1

In two tutorials I'm going to show you how to create broadcast-quality live production with the NewTek TriCaster TC40. In this first installment, I'll show you how to select and configure the inputs. In the second, you'll learn how to mix and stream the show itself.

Encoding.com: Streaming Media's Comprehensive Hands-On Review

While it delivered impressive results in our tests, Encoding.com isn't perfect: Read our review before paying extra for Turbo mode.

Behind the Scenes With Windows Azure Media Services: Case Study

The 2012 Olympics, NBC Universal, and the European Tour have all learned the benefits of migrating to the cloud with Windows Azure.

Cloud Encoding: One Name, but Many Variables to Consider

Digging into the competing cloud encoding solutions shows that they're far from similar, making comparisons difficult.

Commentary: Standards Are Meaningless (Until They Mean Something)

Enough with the new standards. All the talk about HTML5, DASH, and HEVC is mostly hot air, and here's why.

Review: Harmonic ProMedia Xpress

We put the first generation of the recently released ProMedia Xpress through a variety of tests, looking at performance, quality, closed captions, and more.

VP9 Is Almost Here, But a Nokia Patent Fight Might Have it DOA

Google plans to release the VP9 codec in less than a month. While it sounds promising, deep-pocketed companies will want to hold off on adoption.

Review: Dish Network's Hopper With Sling Is the One to Beat

The latest Dish DVR offers integrated Sling functionality and wireless iPad transfers. After thorough testing, we call it a winner.

Adobe to add HLS and DASH to Primetime

Adobe's plans for Primetime highlight both the strengths and limitations of HLS and DASH, as well as the fact that Flash isn't going away anytime soon

Review: Telestream Vantage Transcode Multiscreen

It's a valuable addition to the Vantage Workflow family, but is Transcode Multiscreen the fastest encoder around? Read our detailed test results.

The Future of HEVC: It's Coming, but with Plenty of Questions

Everyone agrees that HEVC is the codec of the future, but an unclear royalty picture and a paucity of compatible devices means widespread adoption is a long way off.

Case Study: Fighting Irish Revamp Their Digital Video Workflow

Notre Dame made an undefeated season even stronger with the addition of Telestream Vantage Transcode Pro and other workflow improvements.

Commentary: DASH Is Overrated—Enough Already!

The problem MPEG-DASH solves isn't that big a deal, and it's not going to make anyone's life simpler in the short term.

Review: Teradek VidiU, a First Look at the Compact H.264 Encoder

Small and affordable, the VidiU lets broadcasters stream HD from anywhere. But, one flaw keeps us from calling it a must-buy.

Livestream Studio vs. NewTek TriCaster

With the introduction of its Studio software, Livestream set out to compete with more established live switchers like NewTek's TriCaster. So how does the newcomer stack up against the old pro?

MPEG LA and Google Settle: What Does it Mean?

Google has entered into a WebM licensing agreement with MPEG LA, and while the impact on streaming is likely to be small, the implications may be significant for other technologies like WebRTC

Encoding for Multiple Devices

Reach viewers no matter where they are. Check out these strategies for reaching the most devices with the smallest number of files.

A Buyer's Guide to Portable Encoders

On-the-go encoding comes in three flavors: software, hardware, and on-camera. Here's what you should consider for each type.

A Buyer's Guide to Enterprise Video Platforms

Every company wants an affordable and useful ‘YouTube for the enterprise'; here's how to pick the right approach for your organization.

Deliver an Awesome Webcast from Your Desk

With the right tools and a little production knowledge, anyone can deliver a professional webcast from just about anywhere.

A Buyer's Guide to Live Encoders

What used to be a simple choice has become much more complex as output options and viewing devices have multiplied.

A Buyer's Guide to Cloud Transcoding

For both live and on-demand video transcoding, there are compelling reasons to move to the cloud. Read this before making a decision.

What Is HEVC (H.265)?

Not sure what to make of the new format on the block? Read this to get up to speed on how HEVC was created, the challenges it now faces, and when it will go into everyday use.

Livestream Ships Studio Software for $1,999

Watch out, NewTek: Livestream aims to provide TriCaster functionality for a fraction of the cost.

Livestream Studio HD500: Review

With its compact form factor, built-in monitor, and proven BlackMagic and NVIDIA components, the Livestream Studio HD500 is an impressive portable video mixer

WebM: It's Forgotten but Not Quite Gone

For those who forgot about WebM, you're not the only ones. Support never materialized for Google's open source format.

Review: The Vitec Optibase MGW Nano

The Nano is a compact, quiet live streaming appliance, but its steep price will put it out of range for some companies.

Windows 8 and Internet Explorer 10: How to Make Sure Your Videos Play

Windows 8 might be taking off more slowly than Microsoft had hoped, but for video producers, it's still another OS and browser to reckon with. Here's what you need to know to make sure your videos play on Windows 8 devices.

Tutorial: Vislink LiveGear Airstream Cellular iNG Transmitter

If you're in the market for a portable video encoder/transmitter, you should consider the LiveGear Airstream from Vislink. It's mobile and easy to use, and it employs predictive forward error correction and adaptive bitrate H.264 encoding to reliably deliver top-quality video over broadband cellular networks.

Jeroen Wijering Talks HLS, DASH, and the JW Player 6

The newly released JW Player 6 brings HLS support to the desktop. We talk with Wijering about how he did it and what the future holds for MPEG DASH.

Closed Captioning in Wowza Media Server 3.5

The introduction of caption transmuxing simplifies deployment by minimizing the number of source files required, though the process is slightly different for live vs. on-demand

Closed Captioning for Streaming Media

Whether you're required by law to offer closed captions or not, there's good reason to add them to your online video workflow. Here's how.

News Flash for Compressionists: Garbage in Means Garbage Out

Rigorous testing comparing encodes from lower-quality and higher-quality source material gives unsurprising, but much needed, results.

Livestream Goes Completely Ad-Free, Even for its Free Service

The company also announced new tiers of service with live stream embedding and an important addition to its iPhone app.

Sorenson Announces Sorenson Squeeze Premium

Premium sits between existing Squeeze Desktop and Server products, and is meant for use by multiple video editors.

Brightcove Announces Live Cloud Transcoding and Instant Play

Just one month from its Zencoder acquisition, Brightcove is already benefiting. Also announces Widevine DRM encryption.

Livestream Doubles Down on Hardware with Studio HD500

The Studio HD500 is an $8,500 hardware switcher with broadcast-level bells and whistles, and it can stream to other services besides Livestream.

What Is a Streaming Media Protocol?

HTTP, RTSP, RTMP, Smooth Streaming, HLS, HDS, and more: What exactly are streaming protocols, and how do they interact with other communications protocols?

Who Still Uses Flash Video? Just About Everybody

Despite all the attention HTML5 video has gotten, informal testing shows that most sites don't see a competitive benefit to leaving Flash.

Venera Pulsar Review: Quality Control for Adaptive Streaming

The rise of adaptive streaming video calls for new quality control solutions. In this comprehensive review, we put Venera Pulsar to the test.

Livestream Broadcaster Review Revisited: Testing 4G Performance

When Jan Ozer looked at the Livestream Broadcaster last month, he wasn't able to test its 4G performance. He's fixed that by taking the Broadcaster on vacation.

The 2012 Encoding and Transcoding Buyers' Guide

Discover the best hardware and software for video encoding and transcoding. We spotlight solutions from Elemental, Digital Rapids, Apple, Adobe, Sorenson, Harmonic, Telestream, Wowza, and Encoding.com.

Encoding for YouTube: How to Get the Best Results

Yes, there is a way to produce great-looking YouTube videos every time. Read on for expert advice and test results.

BP Showcases Olympic Athletes with HTML5 Video Site

Olympic sponsor BP America has created an attractive, responsive, and moving site that delivers HTML5 video first with a Flash fallback.

Livestream Broadcaster Review: Deliver Rich Live Events for Less

This $495 device helps Livestream transition from a channel-based service to an event-based service.

Ustream, Justin.tv, Livestream, and Bambuser: Streaming Unplugged

With just a laptop and a camcorder, four leading live streaming service providers let you deliver webcasts from almost any location.

How to Choose an Enterprise Video Encoder

Is it time for your company to step up to an enterprise encoder? Here's how to make your decision.

Telestream Episode Engine Review: Room for Improvement

While Episode Engine is a solid standalone enterprise encoder, a few caveats keep it from taking the top spot.

Reviewing Dish's Hopper and Joey Whole-Home DVR Service

Satellite network Dish has released hardware that makes capturing and streaming content easier than ever. We dive into the technology and answer whether or not it's a good deal.

Elemental Server Review: The One to Beat

If you need a tool to accelerate H.264 encoding, Elemental Server should be on the top of your list.

Adobe Premiere Pro CS6: An Essential Upgrade

Parallel encoding in Adobe Media Encoder and unlimited multicam highlight the enhancements in Adobe's latest version of Premiere Pro.

Livestream: No Computer Required

Livestream introduces Broadcaster, an H.264 hardware encoder that works over 3G/4G and ethernet or Wi-Fi

There's Nothing Pro about Final Cut Pro X

FCPX fails because Apple insists on controlling the experience, something that doesn't work with a professional audience.

Blackmagic H.264 Pro Recorder: High Quality, Frustrating Limits

This real-time hardware encoder offers strong output. If only it weren't beset by limitations and technical snafus.

Buyer's Guide: Portable Capture and Transcoding

Streaming from the field offers enough challenges without having to worry about the transcoding. Here's what to look for in both hardware and software portable transcoding tools

NBA League Pass: The Future of Online Sports Video

Go in-depth with NBA League Pass and find out why this streaming service has friends in high places -- including the Oval Office.

Buyer's Guide: Light Kits

Looking to light that CEO talk or customer testimonial? You'll get what you pay for. Here's what to look for in lighting kits, and a chart comparing five leading options.

Buyer's Guide: Cameras

When it comes to choosing the right equipment for producing online video, it all starts with the camera. DSLR or Camcorder? We help you decide.

How to Produce for Adaptive Streaming

Adaptive streaming is the ideal way to deliver video content online. Here's how to do it right.

Buyer's Guide: Live Streaming Services

Production capability and user experience distinguish services. If you're in the market, look to our comprehensive chart comparing Livestream, Justin.tv, Bambuser, MultiStream, and Ustream.

Buyer's Guide: Online Video Platforms

With dozens of OVPs in the market, it's harder than ever to select the right one. Here are some guidelines to help you choose.

Ustream Review: Strong Customization, but a Weak Embedded Player

The largest live streaming service, Ustream is strong choice due to its video control options and monetization programs.

Buyer's Guide: Windows Production Stations

From the operating system to the graphics card, here is all you need to know to buy the best workstation for your budget.

Buyer's Guide: Software Encoders

There are bundled, desktop, and enterprise offerings. Read on to learn which one is right for your needs.

Justin.tv Review: Simple Setup, Great for Reaching Gamers

For those streaming live video to a younger audience, Justin.tv is a top choice. It's easy to use, but doesn't stream to Apple iOS devices without a paid app.

Bambuser Review: A Simple Live Streaming Interface, but No Frills

While Bambuser is easy enough for video newcomers, it lacks configuration and monetization options.

Livestream Review: Strong Customization and Social Media Support

Part one of our four-part series on live video streaming services: While lacking some e-commerce tools offered by competitors, Livestream is still a top contender. Plus: a video preview of Livestream changes.

Highwinds Completing Transition from RTMP to HTTP

The future of CDN-delivered video is cacheable, HTTP streaming, with MPEG DASH ultimately taking over, says Highwinds' Chris Bray

How to Encode for Adaptive Streaming

Jan Ozer's Streaming Media West presentation on adaptive bitrate can turn casual encoders into instant experts.

Sorenson Squeeze 8: A Video Tutorial

Support for x264 is now available in Sorenson Squeeze. How does the encoding quality stack up against MainConcept H.264?

Digital-Blonde Promises Better Encoding; We Say 'Prove it!'

In this encoding exam, we test assertive encoding claims, while also comparing Main Concept and x264 output.

HP EliteBook 8760w: A Notebook for Demanding Video Producers

Need a notebook for video or streaming production? Check out the HP EliteBook 8760w. This is one portable that can stand up to most single-CPU desktops on the market.

WeVideo Review: The Top Browser-Based Editor, but Still Limited

We take a hands-on look at the online editor WeVideo and find it the closest thing to a desktop application, but hardly fully-featured.

ESPN Partners with Elemental for Video-on-Demand

The sports giant will use Elemental for 14 video outputs streaming to desktops and mobile devices, as well as to mobile applications and regional properties.

Android vs. iOS: A Video and Flash Comparison

The mobile video viewing experience should be better on Android than iOS, right? We see how it measures up on a Toshiba Thrive tablet.

What Is MPEG DASH?

MPEG DASH is the latest hot topic in the online video space. Here we break down what it is, and what its implications might be for video delivery in the future.

Revision3 Goes HTML5

After a "painful" development process, one of the web's leading video networks flips the switch on its HTML5 video player.

HTML5 Is Taking Over the Web, Right? Not so Fast…

To examine the spread of HTML5, we look at several sites by major brands. Flash certainly isn't dead yet.

Adobe to Discontinue Development of Flash Player on Mobile Devices

Surprising the industry, Adobe has thrown in the towel on the Flash Player web browser plug-in for mobile devices. Read Jan Ozer's commentary on what this means for the future of Web development.

What Is HLS (HTTP Live Streaming)?

Apple's HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) protocol is the technology used to deliver video to Apple devices like the iPad and iPhone. Here's a primer on what HLS is and how to use it.

Enough About HTML5 Video Already!

HTML5 video appeals to "tree-hugging, sandal-wearing standards lovers," says Jan Ozer, and he's sick of hearing about it.

Quality Control Roundup: Catch the Mistakes Before they Go Live

Do you QC? Read this to learn what quality-control software is, how even low-volume producers can integrate it, and what it can do for your videos.

How to Be Your Own Compression Consultant

Flash or Silverlight? Adaptive streaming or regular? This guide helps you choose your target platforms for video delivery and then configure the streams yourself.

ESPN Video Upgrade Moves to H.264 Encoding; Shuns HTTP for RTMP

The leading sports website upgrades its video streams to HD and adaptive bitrate. Learn what motivated the changes.

Accordent Capture Station and Media Management System: Review

Jan Ozer goes deep with Accordent's live and on-demand webcast products. If you're still not sure what Accordent does, this comprehensive review will tell you everything you never knew.

For Google and Apple, Profits Outweigh Ideals Everytime: Commentary

Even the biggest, most industry-defining computing companies will turn against their ideas when there's a buck to be made. Just look at the Android operating system and Final Cut Pro X.

WebM Patent Fight Ahead for Google?

MPEG LA says that 12 patent holders have stepped forward with patents they believe are essential to the VP8 standard. A patent pool license could be next.

Haivision Acquires KulaByte and MontiVision

Enterprise specialist steps out from behind the firewall; can now offer a complete end-to-end solution.

MediaPlatform WebCaster Review: A Strong Option for Webcasts

If you're considering presenting webcasts for training employees, communicating with partners, or retaining customers, MediaPlatform's WebCaster should be on your shortlist.

Telestream Episode Pro 6.1.1 Makes Great Strides

After a rocky start, Telestream is back on track; Episode Pro is now free of the problems that plagued Pro 6.0.

Debunking HTML5 Video Myths: A Guide for Video Publishers

HTML5 video might be getting all the attention, but video publishers who want to serve the widest possible audience should make it the format of last resort. A presentation from Streaming Media East 2011 attempts to burst HTML5 video's balloon.

What Is Adaptive Streaming?

A look at what adaptive streaming is, the primary technology providers, and the factors you should consider when choosing an adaptive streaming technology

What Is Encoding and Transcoding?

An overview of the basics of encoding and transcoding, including an attempt to settle on some hitherto controversial definitions

Adobe CS5.5 Welcomes Back Audition, Offers Encoder Improvements

Adobe Creative Suite 5.5 offers new pricing options, the return of Audition, and new mobile presents for Adobe Media Encoder

What Is H.264?

A look behind H.264, the world's most popular video codec, including encoding parameters and royalty concerns

What Is a Codec?

If you're going to understand online video, you need to understand codecs. Here's a high-level look at what codecs are, as well as the variety of codecs relevant to streaming media.

Choosing a Streaming Encoding Tool

Our annual test of the leading desktop encoding programs.

The 411 on OVPs

Not all OVPs are alike. Here's a look at what they all have in common, as well as differentiating features.

What Is HTML5?

An explanation of HTML5 and HTML5 Video, including history, patent issues, and current use by Apple, Microsoft, Google, Adobe, and others.

MPEG LA and WebM: Power to the Patent Trolls!--The Producer's View

MPEG LA's call for patents could do serious damage to the WebM format and lead to the industry standardizing on H.264. Let's hope!

What Is Streaming (2011 Version)

A high-level view of streaming media technology, history, and the online video market landscape

Live Streaming from a Notebook

Live streaming on a notebook can be the best of all possible worlds, but how powerful a machine do you need, and how do the various live streaming software programs stack up? We look at tools from Adobe, Kulabyte, Microsoft, and Telestream.

Flash Player 10.2: More Efficient than WebM

The latest version of the Flash Player significantly reduces the CPU resources required for video playback, and beats HTML5-based WebM in most deployments

Sorenson Squeeze 7: The Good, The Bad, and the Lovely

The latest iteration of Sorenson Squeeze isn't perfect, but it's still the best desktop transcoding tool on the market.

Commentary: Welcome to the Two-Codec World

With WebM, Google hasn't created any new revenue opportunities, opened any new markets or increased the size of the pie. They've just made it more expensive to get your share, all in the highly ethereal pursuit of "open codec technologies."

How to Encode to WebM

With Google's announcement that it's dropping H.264 support in Chrome in favor of WebM, it's time to start looking at the format. Here's a look at how to get the best WebM quality.

Adaptive Streaming in the Field

How do organizations like MTV, Turner, NBC, Deutsche Welle, Harvard, and Indiana University actually deploy adaptive streaming technologies? Read on for all the juicy details.

Streaming Spotlight: Peter Scott, Turner Sports

The VP of emerging media for Turner Sports talks about the network's delivery of the PGA Championship online, as well as the benefits of HTTP streaming and the implications of HTML5 video

Review: Microsoft Expression Encoder 4

Microsoft Expression Encoder 4 offers the ability to inexpensively adaptively distribute to Apple iDevices, and does so admirably

Video Review: Telestream Episode 6 Interface and Workflow

A first look at the latest version of Telestream Episode 6's interface and workflow options. The verdict? Click to watch.

Commentary: The Five Key Myths About HTML5

Pay no attention to the man behind the Mac. HTML5 won't be a serious consideration for at least a few years.

WebM vs. H.264: A First Look

Producing H.264 Video

What you need to know to get the most out of the web's most popular codec

WebM vs. H.264: A Closer Look

Google's decision to open source VP8 in the form of WebM was the opening salvo in yet another codec war. We take a look at encoding efficiency, output quality, and CPU horsepower required for playback of both WebM and H.264.

Review: Camtasia 7

First Look: H.264 and VP8 Compared

VP8 is now free, but if the quality is substandard, who cares? Well, it turns out that the quality isn't substandard, so that's not an issue, but neither is it twice the quality of H.264 at half the bandwidth. See for yourself.

Google Open Sources VP8

As anticipated, Google open sourced VP8 today, in a new container format called WebM

Review: Telestream Wirecast

There's an old Hollywood joke with the punch line, "but I really want to direct." I'm not sure what the actual joke is, or if it's funny, but the reason I bring it up is that if you talk to writers, most would say, "but I really want to be onTV."

Testing Flash Player 10.1 for the Mac

The preview release of the new Flash Player 10.1 for Mac brings with it some impressive CPU performance gains

Adobe to Enable Flash Hardware Acceleration on the Mac

New Apple API will let Adobe take advantage of hardware-accelerated video decoding for Flash Player on the Mac, though not in 10.1

Inlet Talks Live Ad Insertion, Second-Gen Adaptive Streaming

Inlet Technologies' Matt Smith talks to Jan Ozer about the company's recent announcements, including live ad insertion, extended mobile reach, and what it's calling "Second-Generation Adaptive Streaming"

mDialog Enables Interactive Ad Overlays for iPad and iPhone

mDialog has expanded its Video as a Service platform to offer ad overlays for Apple mobile devices, and the company's Greg Philpott talks to Jan Ozer about "delivering the right ad to the right device at the right time"

Choose Wisely: Selecting An Online Video Platform

Today, if streaming video is at all integral to your enterprise, and if you're currently hosting your own videos or posting them to user-generated content (UGC) sites such as YouTube and Vimeo, it's time to consider using an online video platform.

Producing Video Case Studies

An in-depth analysis of eleven video case studies, evaluating presentation and encoding issues.

Brightcove Announces iPad-Friendly HTML5 Video Support

The New York Times and Time already plan to take advantage of Brightcove's HTML5 offering

Ogg, MPEG LA, and Submarine Patents

HTML 5 may be the future of online video, but currently it's bogged down in a debate between supporters of H.264 and advocates of Ogg Theora. Here, representatives from both camps address concerns over licensing.

Flash Player: CPU Hog? It Depends.

Apple's Steve Jobs has been making headlines by slamming Flash as a "CPU Hog." Is it really?

Commentary: Google Closes On2 Acquisition; Better Check Your Wallet

Think Google should open-source VP8? Think again. It would be better for everyone to make the switch to H.264.

Where The Rubber Meets The Road: 2010 Encoder Comparison

Our annual look at the features and output of video encoding tools in four categories: free, standalone, enterprise-grade, and hardware co-processor.

The Player's the Thing...But So Is The Codec, Format, and Protocol

MPEG LA Continues No-Royalty Licensing Of Free H.264 Video

MPEG LA president and CEO Larry Horn discusses the reasoning behind the decision to continue the royalty-free AVC License for H.264 video that's free to viewers
Wed., Feb. 3, by Jan Ozer

Windows 7 Performance for Streaming Encoding

A Windows 7 upgrade can cost more than $300 for the software alone. Is it worth it if you're a streaming producer looking to shave encoding times?

Webcasting for the Masses

Between live streaming service providers and rich media communications solutions, there have never been more options for webcasting live events.
Friday, Jan. 22, by Jan Ozer

Testing YouTube's 1080p HD Offering

On November 12, YouTube announced that "1080p HD Is Coming to YouTube." In this article, I'll describe the type of file you should upload to trigger 1080p encoding, analyze the 1080p files created by YouTube, and detail the other files created by YouTube in addition to the 1080p file.
Wed., Dec. 16, by Jan Ozer

Review: Microsoft Expression Encoder 3

With outstanding VC-1 output and surprisingly good H.264 output, Expression Encoder 3 is an impressive update to the encoding component of Microsoft's Expression Studio.

New Features Abound in Sorenson Squeeze 6

The latest version of Sorenson's Squeeze includes integration with YouTube and Twitter, uploading to Akamai and Limelight, and new encoding features such as parallel VP6 encoding and an online preset exchange.
Tues., Nov. 3, by Jan Ozer

Streaming Media Podcast #34: NBC Talks About The Silverlight and Sunday Night Football

Jan Ozer speaks with Perkins Miller of NBC Sports & Olympics about the network's decision to use Silverlight for Sunday Night Football, the Olympics, and other large live events, as well as the fact that Flash will still be used widely for NBC content.
Thurs., Aug. 27, by Jan Ozer

Commentary: Is Smooth Streaming Microsoft's Trojan Horse?

Despite its attraction for developers, Silverlight has been slow to catch on. Will Smooth Streaming change that?
Tues., Aug. 18, by Jan Ozer

Review: Kulabyte XStream Live 2.1

XStream Live 2.1 a Must for Live-Streaming Events

Streaming Gets Smarter: Evaluating the Adaptive Streaming Technologies

With adaptive bitrate streaming, companies can post a video and let the technology sort out the rest. So which product is best for you?

Apple's New Final Cut Studio Offers Workflow, Output Improvements

The new Share command in Apple Final Cut Pro lets you bypass Compressor, while Compressor itself now features Job Actions for output directly to YouTube, MobileMe, and Blu-ray.
Thurs., July 23, by Jan Ozer

Review: Telestream Episode Engine

Telestream Episode Engine performs well when encoding to VP6, H.264, and MPEG-2, but Windows Media producers should look elsewhere.

Encoding in the Cloud

Is it time to put cloud encoding on your radar?

Peer Review: Wine Library TV

While Wine Library TV's minimalist approach works well and the content is great, there are a few mistakes that unnecessarily mar streaming quality.Fri., June 5, by Jan Ozer

Sorenson Introduces Sorenson 360

Longtime encoding software provider expands focus with a new online video platform—or, as Sorenson calls it, a video delivery network—called Sorenson 360.
Mon., May 11, by Jan Ozer

Choosing an Online Video Platform

Host your own, use a UGC site, or deploy a fee-based, SaaS approach? Here's how to decide which approach is right for you.

Streaming Media Podcast #24: Sorenson Media

An interview with Peter Csathy, the new president of Sorenson Media, about the company's plans for expansion and new updates to Sorenson Squeeze coming in Q2.
Wed., Mar. 25, by Jan Ozer

Appearing on CNN Does Add 20 Pounds to A-Rod and Tiger

A look at CNN's aspect ratio issues and their bold new streaming parameters
Mon., Mar. 9 by Jan Ozer

Testing YouTube's 720p HD Encoding

What happens when the biggest user-generated content site in the world adds its version of high-definition video? Here's a look under the hood of YouTube's 720p H.264 encoding.
Thurs., Feb. 26 by Jan Ozer

Choosing a Camera for Online Video Production

High-quality video starts at the source, and today's camcorders offer more options than ever to help you capture a first-class image. But with choices comes confusion; here are five questions to ask that can help you pick the camcorder that's right for you.
Mon., Feb. 16, by Jan Ozer

The Future's So Bright: H.264 Year in Review

H.264 was definitely the 'it' codec of 2008, and despite its complex and potentially expensive licensing, it will likely only become more pervasive in years to come.

2009 Encoder Shootout

Report cards on the seven leading software encoding tools

Nonlinear Video Editors for Streaming Postproduction

The last year saw developments—some big, some small—to all of the major nonlinear video editing platforms. Here's a look at the latest word from Adobe, Apple, Avid, and Sony.
Wed., Feb. 11, by Jan Ozer

Review: LSI Tarari Encoder Accelerator LCPX-6140

The LSI Tarari Encoder Accelerator is a solid and affordable option for high-volume producers who need to accelerate their VC-1 encoding.

The HD Showdown: Codec Vendors Battle It Out for Supreme Quality

Microsoft, On2, and Jan Ozer square off to determine which codec produces the highest quality video: VC-1, VP6, or H.264.

H.264 Lessons from iTunes

For all the talk about H.264, it's still not widely used for streaming, at least in the U.S. In iTunes, however, it's the norm. We take a look at how well it's working for Apple.
Tues., Oct. 21, by Jan Ozer

Decoding the Truth About Hi-Def Video Production

Many low-powered computers have trouble playing back high-definition video encoded using one or more of the big three codecs, but there are ways to improve performance.

Tutorial: Encoding for Screencams

How to wring the last bit of quality out of your codecs and encoding tools when compressing screencams for internet delivery.
Tues., Oct. 7, by Jan Ozer

Out to Launch: Adobe Reveals CS4

Adobe announces the new Creative Suite 4 and shows off some solid advances and one feature that may change the face of video editing as we know it.
Tues., Sept. 23, by Jan Ozer

Tutorial: Producing Screencams in Camtasia Studio

There is no one right way to produce screencam tutorials, but the tools and procedures described here provide a good blend of precision, production efficiency, and output quality using Camtasia Studio.
Mon., Sept. 22, by Jan Ozer

So Many H.264 Codecs, So Little Time

Unlike the quality of either WMV or VP6-based Flash files, which are relatively homogenous due to their common origin, the quality of H.264 video varies depending upon who developed the codec and, to a lesser degree, the encoding tool. Here's a comparison of H.264 files produced using codecs from Apple, Dicas, and MainConcept.
Tues., Aug. 26, by Jan Ozer

Cracking the H.264 Codec

H.264 is undoubtedly the hottest codec around, but there are inherent market forces that complicate producing files that meet the needs of your target playback device or player. These include the fact that there are multiple H.264 codecs available, each with different configurable parameters, and that each H.264 encoding tool reveals a custom set of compression options.

Under the Hood: File Analysis Tools for Streaming Video

For the most part, streaming files provide a pitiful amount of useable data, which makes programs that provide insight to the content of these files invaluable to compressionists. Depending upon your needs and operating system, there are a number of programs—most free, some at a price—that may fit the bill quite nicely. In this article, we look at a several such programs, including Apple’s QuickTime Pro, Steve Greenberg’s GSpot Codec Information Appliance, Inlet Technologies’ Semaphore, Jerome Martinez’s MediaInfo, and Sliq Media’s WMSnoop.
Tues., June 17, by Jan Ozer

Review: Sorenson Squeeze 5

With Squeeze 5, Sorenson took baby steps in some critical new directions. Unfortunately, unless it's your child, baby steps are seldom graceful or particularly effective, and that's the case here.

Review: Rhozet Carbon Coder 3

"Impressive" turns out to be a good adjective for the version 3.0 update in general, which significantly improves an already highly competent product. Rhozet has made several useful streaming-codec-related improvements, enhanced watch-folder functionality, and improved the program's interface. Encoding trials immediately revealed that Carbon Coder remains highly tuned for fast, multiprocessor efficiency.

Commentary: Microsoft Should Embrace H.264

Streaming Media East was abuzz with rumors that Microsoft would add H.264 playback to Silverlight and Windows Media Player. The official word is that no such thing is in the cards, but there are plenty of good reasons why it'd be a great idea.
Fri., June 6, by Jan Ozer

Adobe Releases Public Beta of Flash Player 10

The new version has multiple features that will have far-reaching effects, including the ability for the server to monitor line conditions and adjust the video bitrate dynamically. Also new are 3D and custom real-time effects.
Thurs., May 15, by Jan Ozer

Review: Anystream Agility

The term “industrial-strength” is probably overused, but it’s definitely appropriate when describing Anystream’s Agility Web encoder, an extremely robust system that delivers more than adequate video quality along with stellar stability and performance.
Thurs., April 24, by Jan Ozer

The 2008 Encoder Shootout

In this roundup, Jan Ozer examines the compression capabilities for Adobe Creative Suite 3 and Apple Final Cut Studio 2, then reviews primary multiformat batch compression tools Grass Valley ProCoder, Sorenson Squeeze, and Telestream Episode Pro, all with an emphasis on output quality.

Special Delivery: High-Def Video

Case studies of Akamai, Hulu, and more reveal different approaches to delivering high-definition video online.

Express Yourself

Getting to know Microsoft Silverlight's Expression Encoder

Review: TechSmith Camtasia 5

Overall, the latest version offers more streamlined workflow, with a single-screen Recorder that replaces the multistep wizard, and SmartFocus, which takes some of the work out of applying pans and zooms even if it’s not perfect.

Testing the New Windows Media Encoding Profiles

Microsoft recently released upgrades to its Windows Media Video codecs. How do they hold up against WMV9, Flash VP6, and Apple's H.264? As usual, the answer is a resounding "It depends."
Fri., July 27, by Jan Ozer

Review: VX30 Universal Video Encoder

While Maui X-Stream has conceived of a brilliant feature set—and the serverless, playerless modes and DRM have undeniable appeal—VX30 offers little if any competitive advantage when it comes to video quality, and its quirks ultimately lend it a rookie feel. Once you get by the rough edges, however, it makes sense as a low-cost alternative to a player upgrade.
Fri., July 6, by Jan Ozer

Q&A With Microsoft's Ben Waggoner

In this companion piece to "The Right Profile"—a critical look at the new Windows Media Video codecs in the June/July issue of Streaming Media magazine—the author sits down for an in-depth Q&A with the program manager for Microsoft's codecs division.
Wed., June 20, by Jan Ozer

Q&A With Adobe's Chris Hock

With all the attention on Silverlight, plus the new encoding profiles for Windows Media Profile, we thought it was time to sit down with a longtime Macromedia/Adobe team member to find out what's going on with Flash.
Wed., June 20, by Jan Ozer

The Right Profile

Microsoft has released updated codecs and enhanced access to Windows Media-related encoding parameters that enable streaming publishers to improve the quality of Windows Media Video. Should you make the switch?

Shooting for Streaming, Part 4

How to deal with the progressive vs. interlaced dilemma

Review: Adobe Captivate 2

Captivate 2 is a "must download" for anyone creating application-based screen cams, online quizzes, or simulations, and—despite some significant flaws—don’t be surprised if you quickly find it invaluable as a standalone tool or a way to supplement video training materials.

Review: Rhozet Carbon Coder

Carbon Coder's feature set and video quality are outstanding, but its performance is what's really impressive, especially in multiple-processor workstations.
Mon., April 9, by Jan Ozer

Review: Sorenson Squeeze 4.5

If you produce streaming video, Squeeze 4.5 is a product you need to download and try, even if you’re completely satisfied with your current workflow and encoding tools.
Mon., Nov. 27, by Jan Ozer

Tutorial: Shooting Top-Quality Streaming Video Part II: Designing Your Set

Quality streaming video begins long before the camera's even on, with the design of the set and considerations such as color and texture.

Smart Choices

We contacted six organizations that make extensive use of streaming media, whether for internal communications or for consumer delivery. Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, Accenture, the state of Montana, DL.TV, blip.tv, and ESPN.com were all kind enough to share with us the decision-making processes behind their streaming video implementations, as well as the reasons behind their choices of video formats.

Tutorial: Shooting Top-Quality Streaming Video—How to Minimize Motion

Excessive motion can ruin otherwise terrific video. From codec to camera to edit, this tutorial tells you how to keep it to a minimum
Fri., Oct. 6, by Jan Ozer

Review: Adobe Captivate and TechSmith Camtasia Studio

Adobe Captivate and TechSmith Camtasia both have killer features that may swing the pendulum in their favor, but once you get to know their strengths and weaknesses, it really is hard to imagine living without either one.
Tues., Aug. 22, by Jan Ozer

Studies in Flash Video: Best Practices from Real-World Producers

These three video production companies take very different approaches to delivering Flash Video for clients. But each one maximizes the format’s capabilities while downplaying its limitations.
Tues., May 30, by Jan Ozer

Choosing a Video Codec

Picking the right video codec isn’t as easy as it used to be. But with the right information, you can determine which one will work best for your project.
by Jan Ozer

Local Heroes: Solutions for LAN- and WAN-based Streaming (Part 2)

In the second of a two-part article, we dig deeper three different solutions—from Certeon, Kontiki, and Network Appliance—and provide questions you should ask yourself before you go hunting for a streaming service provider.

Local Heroes: Solutions for LAN- and WAN-based Streaming (Part 1)

In the first of a two-part article, we take a look at three different solutions—from Certeon, Kontiki, and Network Appliance—to offer a sense of the options available for moving your content from LAN to WAN.

Commentary: MPEG-4 is Dead

With the adoption of WM9 by the DVD Forum, there's increasing reason to believe that MPEG4's future looks grim.