Hasta La Gadget!

Live video streaming platform Ustream has announced with Teradek a new portable HDMI streaming device for $699. Just like Livestream’s Broadcaster, it is easy to use and compatible with a wide range of cameras, as long as they have an HDMI output.

“We’ve been in the live streaming business for more than 2 years now, and have probably sold more encoders than anyone else,” Nicol Verheem, CEO of Teradek, told me. “Over this timeframe, we have learned what customers want and the lessons are all very similar: ‘make it simple and affordable, but give me choices,’” he continued.

That’s why the VidiU is platform agnostic, with native integration for Ustream and the new Livestream. But that’s not all, as the VidiU is compatible with Tier 1 CDNs like Akamai or Limelight thanks to a generic RTMP interface. It works with Brightcove, Justin.tv, Ooyala and many others.

The Livestream Broadcaster was a key selling point for Ustream’s competitor. With an affordable prosumer device, amateurs and professionals alike could start video streaming in minutes. Ustream had to provide a portable streaming device that you can fix to any camera as well.

Yet, the VidiU is $200 more expensive. Here’s a few reasons why. When it comes to output quality, the VidiU can stream up to 1080p at 5Mbps compared to 720p at 2.5Mbps for the Broadcaster. Those specs will matter even more in the future as LTE continues to roll out in many countries. The new device uses a traditional Li-Ion battery compared to AA batteries for the Broadcaster. Finally, VidiU customers can run their iOS devices into a real-time monitor.

Ustream probably hopes that customers will choose the VidiU over the Livestream Broadcaster as the new device is slightly better, universal and Ustream is the default streaming platform on the VidiU.

“We emphasize universal compatibility, but Ustream will make the most sense for many customers, especially if we include free membership for a period. So Ustream will be the recommended choice,” Verheem said. The VidiU will be available in February.

Overall, as these niche webcasting devices become available, the quality of live video content should greatly improve on platforms like Ustream and Livestream, and many video enthusiasts will be able to make the jump and cover live events.

The Livestream Broadcaster has been available since May of last year, and while the streaming add-on’s had LTE capabilities since its debut back in April, something like a USB dongle was required to get such internet connectivity. Soon, however, that’s about to change, as Livestream announced today that it’s teamed up with Verizon to offer a new version of the Broadcaster. Essentially, the appropriately named Livestream Broadcaster LTE will boast the same features as the previous revision but with the obvious inclusion of a 4G chip using Verizon’s speedy network. What’s more, the novel unit also replaces the need for AA batteries with one that’s built in, while support for 5.4GHz WiFi can be found aboard the refreshed Broadcaster as well. There’s no specific pricing details (or availability, for that matter) as of yet, but Livestream did tell us we can expect its Broadcaster LTE to ship later in the spring of this year.

Filed under: Misc, Internet, HD, Verizon

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Source: Livestream

Android users of generation “Hey Look at Me!” can now add another tool to their arsenal of lifestyle sharing. The Livestream for Producers Android application received an update on Monday that introduces “single touch” sign up and logins through Facebook, a new app icon and some unnamed bug fixes. However, the most noteworthy addition here is the ability to run live ad-free videos over 3G and 4G data connections. Requiring Android 2.2 or higher, this free media streaming app might be an ideal companion for folks looking to incriminate co-workers at this year’s Halloween costume party — all in good fun of course. Just be sure to remember who signs your paycheck before you decide to take a broadcast live.

Continue reading Livestream for Producers Android app update brings live video broadcasts over wireless data connections

Filed under: Cellphones, Software, Mobile

Livestream for Producers Android app update brings live video broadcasts over wireless data connections originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 05:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wowza. Can you believe Tim Cook did that thing with the unicycle and the polar bear to close out the show? Just kidding! If you were following along with the liveblog you’d know we’re just pull in’ your leg, but in case you missed any of the fun today we’ve got a little recap for you after the break. Click through to enjoy a special live stream with Tim Stevens and Darren Murph as they break down the events of the day.

Continue reading Engadget’s post-iPad mini event live broadcast from San Jose

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Engadget’s post-iPad mini event live broadcast from San Jose originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 15:58:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Apple has a “little more” to show us and we’ve got a little more to show you, by which we mean our handsome faces. Chances are you couldn’t make it out to San Jose yourselves and scoring an invite to Apple press events is a pretty tough proposition for the general public. So join us here and live vicariously through our coverage of what is shaping up to be a slightly more understated event from Apple than usual. You can enjoy all the liveblog action here but, before that, Tim Stevens and Darren Murph will be having a live chat from outside the venue. Click on through to get your stream on.

For more coverage, visit our Apple Special Event hub!

Continue reading Engadget’s pre-iPad mini event live broadcast from San Jose

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Engadget’s pre-iPad mini event live broadcast from San Jose originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 10:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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