Connectivity

Network connectivity becomes vital for a cloud-based work model*.

Connectivity requires high levels of Quality of Service (QoS -Quality of Service-) and a good Service Level Agreement (SLA-Service Level Agreement-).

Edge Computing, private vpn networks, WAN networks… all this is connectivity.

*If you would like to know more about Cloud, you can check our divulging article:

https://www.telefonicaserviciosaudiovisuales.com/en/audiovisual-divulging-articles/cloud/

Edge Computing

Among the new technologies that bring lower costs and improve the user experience, we find Edge Computing.

It is all about bringing as closely as possible the processing and computing for a particular use, ideally uses low-cost network infrastructure (domestic FTTH where, for example, Telefónica has more fiber deployed than Germany, United Kingdom, France, and Italy together).

In audiovisual environments, it seeks to reduce latency to the minimum expression (1 millisecond), increase the quality of the source signals (fiber connections at 10Gbps that can be intertwined increasing bandwidth), minimize rental costs of dedicated fiber tracks, reduce costs and Capex investments in computers that can run virtualized in the cloud, etc.

As an example, we have the experience carried out by Telefónica Innovation together with RTVE in the first European remote production experience, thanks to Edge Computing, under the European 5G Media framework. The remote production of this pilot experience has allowed working with HDSDI camera signals at 1.5Gbps each, processed and mixed in the cloud, with almost real-time monitoring through 5Mbps proxies.

Edge computing will be key in 2020, seeking the adoption of hybrid multi-clouds in all business segments.

Another functionality is to deliver high-quality signals and high bandwidth, processed in the proximity cloud. Immediately OTT, VOD, live events … in 4K, 8K, 12K … will be a reality thanks to this technology.

A linear broadcast that you want to take to the cloud for live events requires to be operated through Edge technology to avoid as much as possible the delay and processing lag in the remote Cloud. Being able to raise hyper-specialized channels in a matter of hours is possible and real today, for this, you start by virtualizing Play Out solutions and migrating those services to Edge and the Cloud.

Another very interesting functionality will be the one that is yet to be invented which integrates the viewer through real interactivity with a broadcast or linear event that in turn requires minimal latency and delay in the viewer’s response vs. processing. Television contests that integrate the viewer where the fastest among millions of users wins, is a simple example to understand the advantages of proximity computing EDGE COMPUTING.

Other uses are virtual reality, augmented reality and especially Gaming, where lag makes you win or lose a hard-fought game on Fortnite.