On November 10, 2021, Sony will start providing the cloud relay system "M2 Live" as part of its efforts to strengthen cloud and IP solutions that promote DX (digital transformation) in broadcasting and video production. Announced.
Overview of the cloud relay system "M2 Live" (from the presentation materials) [Click image to enlarge]This system is intended for various live video production such as internet distribution and news relay. Relay production can be realized without installing and setting equipment such as switchers. Video processing such as video switching, subtitle superimposition, and video file playback is performed on the cloud. Roles such as broadcast vans that switch video in real time at the relay site to produce programs can be built on the cloud, making it possible to produce programs remotely from anywhere using a laptop computer or touch panel. . Videos produced on the cloud can be directly input to video distribution services without downloading.
The system supports input of various video formats. General-purpose protocols such as SRT and RTMP enable cooperation with many cameras. Sony's XDCAM memory camcorder supports Sony's unique QoS technology that takes into consideration the mobile environment, etc., realizing more stable video transfer. At the same time, we also developed a mobile application that directly transmits the video input to the smartphone to "M2 Live".
On October 14, 2021, Sony conducted a demonstration experiment of remote control program production using this cloud relay system in collaboration with Fuji Television and Saga Television. Images shot in two locations in Tokyo and Saga Prefecture were sent to "M2 Live" via 5G and 4G lines. Then, while switching the video and audio on the cloud from Fuji TV and Saga TV in real time, the live program was distributed to YouTube (private channel).
Overview of the demonstration experiment (from presentation materials) [Click image to enlarge]
In this demonstration experiment, the system on the cloud was able to replace live broadcasts from outside, which conventionally required OB vans to be placed at two locations in the filming location. Initial costs can be kept down, and efficient live production operations can be expected in the future.
Currently, compared to using hardware, using the cloud has limitations in terms of the types of video effects and the number of signals that can be input. However, ``Instead of collecting video somewhere and arranging equipment and switching, this time you can use it immediately after signing a contract.It is a different dimension from broadcasting using hardware.'' Mr. Hajime Kogai, general manager of the department).
Mr. Mikio Kita, VP of Sony Imaging Products & Solutions Business Division, said, "There is a growing need to work remotely at broadcasting stations. In addition to terrestrial and satellite broadcasting, there are also outlets for produced programs. Broadcasters are also beginning to work on OTT digital distribution, rather than investing in equipment and purchasing expensive switchers in bulk and preparing them, they can rent switchers on the cloud and use the business operating costs to relay when needed. For example, a full-fledged sports broadcast using 4K video requires a hardware switcher, but for purposes such as OTT live distribution, it is fully usable. I want you to use it," he said.
Sony has already deployed and announced file-based cloud solutions. They are "Ci Media Cloud Services," an integrated platform for media management and operation aimed at the video production industry, "Media Solutions Toolkit," which can freely build different microservices, and "C3 Portal," a camera-linked cloud service that will be introduced in the future.
With the launch of "M2 Live" this time, a system with 8 HDTV video inputs has been added as the first step of live broadcasting. In the future, we will further strengthen the technology and aim to realize support for higher-end live broadcasts on the cloud. Regarding the file-based business, the policy is to evolve the use of AI, which has already started.
Sony is using AWS (Amazon Web Services) as a platform for various cloud solutions such as this cloud relay system, and is proceeding with development while strengthening cooperation with AWS to promote DX in the video production industry. To go.
Presentation materials
