Inlet Technologies, a leader in advanced encoding solutions for new media, announced today it has partnered with iStreamPlanet®, provider of digital media strategy, services, and software applications, to enable live streaming of major events, which have included the June 21st broadcast of CTV’s 2009 MuchMusic Video Awards (MMVAs) and NBC’s coverage of The Championships, Wimbledon.
The MMVAs marked a technological milestone, as the event was the first live Canadian Smooth Streaming showcase. MuchMusic, a division of CTV Limited, provided viewers with a unique, multi-camera online experience of the MMVA Backstage Live experience using the Microsoft Silverlight browser plug-in. Thanks to Inlet’s SpinnakerTM family of live streaming appliances, viewers were treated to a “living room” experience over the Web with stunning HD picture quality, ’instant on’ and zero buffering. iStreamPlanet managed the delivery of the live and on-demand content by leveraging the global platform of content delivery network (CDN) partner, Akamai Technologies, Inc (NASDAQ:AKAM)
Viewers were able to select from six different views powered by 21 cameras located throughout the event venue to enjoy live on-stage performances from multiple vantage points, exclusive behind-the scenes interviews, and access to the VIP and press rooms. Multiple layers of interactivity were provided through Alt Show cams with “second screen” footage framed in alternate shots and chat integration via Facebook and Twitter.
Inlet and iStreamPlanet also powered live streaming of The Championships, Wimbledon. iStream managed the encoding of the live content using Inlet’s Spinnaker products, as well as designed and deployed a custom Silverlight-based media experience that was delivered over Akamai’s media delivery platform. The live streaming coverage featured high-definition playback, instant replays, and DVR capabilities.
“Together with our solution partners we provide a fully-customized, end-to-end workflow from content acquisition, through encoding, to delivery,” said Mio Babic, founder and CEO, iStreamPlanet. “We look forward to further innovating this game-changing technology for future globally-viewed events.”
John Bishop, Inlet’s senior VP of strategy and business development, echoed Babic’s comments. “By teaming with the most innovative streaming technology providers, we can provide viewers at home with an entirely new way of experiencing their favorite entertainment or sporting events. Our technology is helping power the changing face of the online viewing experience, redefining traditional broadcasting to encompass a more interactive and personalized online event.”
As the first encoding solutions provider to announce Smooth Streaming support for live and on-demand applications, Inlet develops solutions for a wide variety of media companies wanting to stream a range of high quality content, including sports, news, and special events. Spinnaker supports all of the major formats, including H.264, VC-1, Silverlight and Flash VP6, and allows content creators to stream multiple formats simultaneously from one source. Spinnaker is ideal for live sports and entertainment events as it can create real-time highlights without the need for additional file preparation. Users can also switch between multiple views or camera angles during a single event. URLs or captions, such as scores and statistics, can also be inserted directly into the live stream.
About iStreamPlanet
iStreamPlanet® develops and provides digital media strategy, managed webcasting services, and Rich Internet Applications. The company successfully integrates managed services and SaaS-based digital media applications that cover all aspects of media delivery, enabling enterprises and other content owners to distribute and monetize their digital media across multiple platforms. iStreamPlanet’s team of digital media and broadcast experts has managed and enabled the deployment of more than 1,000 large live events viewed online by millions, including the Presidential Inauguration. The world’s top business leaders (American Express, AT&T, Caterpillar, Microsoft), trendiest music festivals (Bonnaroo, Coachella, SXSW), most popular sporting events (Masters Golf Tournament, Phoenix Suns, World Series of Poker), and major broadcasters (CBS Television, Cablevision, Fox International) rely on iStreamPlanet’s digital media solutions. Through its partnership with Smart City, iStreamPlanet also supports more than 60 of the largest U.S. convention centers and event facilities. Founded in 2000, the privately held company is headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in Orlando, Florida; Scottsdale, Arizona; and Washington, D.C. More information is available by calling 702-492-5900 or visiting http://www.istreamplanet.com.
About Inlet Technologies
Inlet Technologies is the leading provider of live streaming and on-demand solutions that help companies build intelligent, robust digital media infrastructures. Our industry expertise, award-winning products and outstanding support enable content owners and distributors to expand their audience and maximize their content’s value. Inlet provides the industry’s fastest time-to-output, sets new standards for quality, and is the first to reach new screens. Industry leaders such as Major League Baseball, Microsoft, Yahoo!, M6 and Home Shopping Network rely on Inlet for easy implementation, technical prowess and enterprise scale for their mission critical operations. For more information, visit www.inlethd.com.
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