Elemental Streams First True High Definition 3D Video Live Over the Internet at IBC

Submitted by Whitney on September 9, 2010 - 00:01

T3D Dino Imagehe International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) kicks off today and 3D is already the talk of the show. Elemental is adding to the 3D buzz by unveiling a world’s first: live 3D streaming video in 1080p. Elemental is proud to collaborate with Microsoft, Level 3 and TVN Group to deliver high definition 3D content streaming live over the Internet using Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS) Smooth Streaming.

The demonstration features a real-world, end-to-end 3D workflow in which Elemental Live performs the heavy-duty encoding required to stream live HD 3D video over the Internet. In the demonstration, a single system directly accepts a 3D TV signal from TVN and simultaneously encodes seven independent output streams for multi-screen delivery via Level 3’s content distribution network. Content is formatted for Microsoft Smooth Streaming, an adaptive bit rate protocol that enables a compelling, uninterrupted online viewing experience.

While the 3D market is still nascent, viewers’ appetites for a richer viewing experience continue to accelerate.  The number of households with HDTV doubled between 2007 and 2009 and eventually the adoption curve of 3D will follow that of HD as costs come down, content becomes more available, and implementation increases.  

According to a recent Nielsen survey, 12% of people surveyed owned a 3D-enabled TV or they had a definite interest in purchasing one this year. The library of 3D content is growing – sports, concerts, feature films, music videos and games are all rapidly contributing to the 3D experience. As viewers are exposed to compelling 3D content, they will look for ways to integrate that experience into their homes. Someday, more personal video devices including laptops and mobile phones may even eliminate the need for 3D glasses.

If you are attending IBC, you can see the demo at Elemental’s stand 13.C25 and in the Microsoft venue in the Topaz Lounge. In addition to the joint demonstration with Microsoft, Level 3 and TVN Group at IBC, Elemental Live is integrated within the 3D workflow in NVIDIA’s stand 7.J38 and a multi-screen workflow in HP stand 3.C10. Elemental’s multi-screen transcoding product line is featured in Elemental’s stand 13.C25.

If you're not attending IBC this year, you can still follow us on twitter (@elementaltech) for updates from the show or subscribe to our blog for Elemental's perspective and news.