The broadcasting industry is looking to evolve by leveraging 5G and edge computing. This is because broadcasters are searching for ways to change content delivery methods, boost revenue opportunities, and personalize their offerings.
Bloomberg Media recently started a trial partnership to work on this project with Verizon, Zixi, and Amazon Web Services (AWS). They are trying to uncover how 5G and edge computing could transform the broadcasting industry. The end goal is to find ways to deliver improved live feeds and other content, and different ways in which viewers can consume news and broadcast content.
As time goes by, more of us consumers expect to have on demand content that is available to them 24/7. This is why we’re seeing more content via mobile applications. The key is to streamline the process while also providing high-quality video with low buffering requirements.
The team has taken to performing trials that leverage products from each company. The products include Verizon 5G Edge, AWS Wavelength (a real-time computing platform), and Zixi’s SDVP and ZEN Master control plane (to reduce latency). These proof-of-concept trials demonstrate how 5G and edge computing rollouts could create a new generation of streaming and broadcast services. Also, by deploying content straight to 5G-enabled user devices, it could significantly reduce the strain for media companies.
Bloomberg media conducted trials using Bloomberg TV+ and 4K ultra-high-definition content that was streamed directly to 5G connected user devices. These tests are meant to help discover the edge of broadcast capability with 4k UHD.
If tests are successful media companies could then decide to stream ultra-high-definition content without the use of satellites. This is certainly something that could speed up capability. Bloomberg will also demonstrate how these products allow companies to split video into multiple streams for broadcast across multiple platforms.
Another future trial will hopefully help to open content up to more consumers, by demonstrating real-time translation, subtitles, and transcription services.