Akamai Technologies has recently unveiled Akamai Cloud Accelerated Compute Instances, a groundbreaking cloud-based computing innovation powered by NETINT’s advanced Video Processing Units (VPUs). This development marks a major shift in the cloud computing landscape, positioning Akamai as the pioneer in integrating VPUs into its cloud infrastructure. By doing so, Akamai offers media companies an unprecedented level of efficiency in media transcoding, traditionally confined to on-premises or colocation facilities.
The integration of VPUs into Akamai’s cloud infrastructure empowers media companies to access high-performance video encoding without the need for substantial infrastructure investments.
Technological Advancements in Cloud VPUs
Enhanced Performance and Scalability
The Akamai Cloud Accelerated Compute Instances are equipped with the Quadra T1U VPUs, which support ultra-high-definition resolutions up to 8K at 60fps, and formats including AV1, HEVC, and H.264. This technological advancement means that these VPUs can handle up to 32 simultaneous 1080p30 live streams, making them highly suitable for both live streaming and video-on-demand services. As the demand for high-quality, low-latency video streaming continues to grow, VPUs provide a cost-effective solution to traditional software-based encoding methods.
Video encoding is an incredibly resource-intensive task, traditionally offloaded to CPUs. These new VPUs can achieve up to 20 times greater throughput, freeing up CPU resources for more critical applications such as real-time speech-to-text captioning and dynamic packaging. The ability to manage such high levels of throughput while maintaining low latency is a key selling point for media companies looking to enhance their streaming services without incurring exorbitant costs.
Jon Alexander, VP of Product Management at Akamai, has emphasized how this innovation effectively removes several barriers for businesses in the streaming sector. By facilitating cost reductions, seamless scaling, and improved streaming quality, Akamai aims to set its cloud platform apart from hyperscalers with a distinct focus on media companies. The services, which include contribution, transport, transcoding, DRM, ad insertion, and content security, are already trusted by the world’s leading video streaming platforms.
Cost Efficiency and Integration Flexibility
Randal Horne, Chief Revenue Officer at NETINT, highlighted the VPUs as transformative for video streaming profitability. By offering up to 20 times the efficiency at a fraction of the cost of traditional encoders, these VPUs bring tangible financial benefits to media companies. The Akamai platform is designed to be flexible and open, allowing workflow customization that can integrate with third-party solutions. This flexibility, combined with low egress costs and the utilization of NVIDIA GPU-powered transcoding, presents a comprehensive solution for modern media companies.
The VPUs’ efficiency allows media companies to achieve significant cost savings, enabling them to either reallocate resources or invest further in innovative solutions that enhance customer experiences. Furthermore, the focus on integrating seamlessly with existing third-party solutions ensures that companies can customize and optimize their workflows rather than undergo expensive and time-consuming process overhauls. This adaptability is an essential factor in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape.
Strategic Implications for Media Companies
Addressing Industry Challenges
Akamai’s commitment to providing scalable cloud solutions highlights the significance of this innovation for the media industry. The incorporation of VPUs into the cloud infrastructure is a direct response to the growing demand for better streaming quality and lower operational costs. Media companies now have access to a technologically advanced solution that addresses these industry-wide challenges, positioning them to deliver improved services to consumers.
The use of cloud-based VPUs allows media companies to enhance their video encoding and streaming capabilities without having to invest heavily in physical infrastructure. This democratization of advanced video processing technology means that even smaller companies can compete with industry giants in delivering high-quality content.
Future of Video Streaming
Akamai Technologies has introduced Akamai Cloud Accelerated Compute Instances, an innovative cloud-based computing solution driven by NETINT’s state-of-the-art Video Processing Units (VPUs). This launch signifies a significant transformation in the cloud computing sphere, positioning Akamai as a leader in the integration of VPUs within its cloud framework. With this development, Akamai provides media companies with a highly efficient solution for media transcoding, which was traditionally limited to on-premises or colocation environments.
The strategic incorporation of VPUs within Akamai’s cloud ecosystem allows media companies to achieve high-performance video encoding without the hefty investment in physical infrastructure. This groundbreaking advancement not only reduces costs but also simplifies the process by utilizing cutting-edge VPUs for top-tier video processing tasks. Akamai’s innovation is set to revolutionize the industry by offering a scalable, infrastructure-light option for media transcoding, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and opening new possibilities for media companies worldwide.
