On the first day of IBC 2024, 5G-MAG celebrated his 5th birthday – inviting members and friends to 5G-MAG's Media and Connectivity Conference "INSIGHTS". The Meet & Greet and Eat was followed by 4 one-hour pitch sessions, each packed with industry experts speaking about different topics connecting mobile technologies, connectivity and 5G with the media industry.
In his opening speech, the 5G-MAG “boss” Antonio Arcidiacono shared his excitement about how the organization has flourished and delivered since its inception 5 years ago at the very same place – the IBC 2019. He thanked the members for their dedication to have joined this journey – led by 5G-MAG’s Project Office, in particular the Head of Technology, Jordi J. Gimenez. He handed over to Jordi, the organizer of the event, to kick off the exciting afternoon: industry experts provided INSIGHTS into latest work on media delivery and transport, and inspired discussions in panels and demonstrations.
Themes and topics of the afternoon where latest advancements in technology, standards, open-source reference tools and trials, including Media Streaming and delivery, views on specifications and deployments, multimedia technologies, next generation video codecs, 5G Broadcast, NTNs, connected media production with private and public networks, and immersive experiences.
The presence of experts attending the sessions and lively discussions inspired new thoughts and ideas for 5G-MAG. On top of this it also allowed members, guests and friends to get INSIGHTS into the steamroom of 5G-MAG, how we work, execute and deliver. It became obvious, the first five years are only the beginning of many more to come.
Details of each of the 4 sessions and the talks are provided in the following – each augmented with an idea on how 5G-MAG will follow up on this matter.
Insights from "Media Delivery for the Streaming Era"
Thomas introduced the speakers of the first session – subject matter experts on many topics, and beyond this, good friends and excellent discussion partners.
Insights from Thierry Fautier - Your Media Transformation
Thierry (Your Media Transformation - thought leader and LinkedIn influencer) kicked off the show with 5 facts about mobile video delivery.
Thierry's 5 facts
Mobile video traffic is experiencing explosive growth, accounting for 76% of mobile data.
Device resolution is shifting towards 4K, but actual streaming resolutions may differ.
AV1 codec is not yet mature enough to surpass HEVC’s dominance in mobile video for the next few years.
Techniques like zero rating can create a win-win-win scenario for mobile network operators, content producers, and consumers.
Software Defined Networking significantly improves video quality and resource utilization, as demonstrated by Vodafone’s partnership with Meta.
5G-MAG Insight: We need to take into account these facts in our work streams and remind us constantly.
Insights from Gilles Teniou - Tencent & 3GPP
Gilles (Tencent and 3GPP SA4 vice and video chair) responded to the challenges posed by Thierry. In a presentation of an accepted supporting paper “3GPP SA4 - The media and XR powerhouse for 5G and 6G” he highlighted some work topics addressed by the experts in 3GPP.
Gilles' 5 facts
3GPP SA4 is advancing media technologies for 5G and 6G, focusing on extended reality and streaming enhancements.
5G Media Streaming (5GMS) architecture supports third-party media distribution, enhancing collaboration opportunities.
Releases 18 and 19 introduce significant codec and protocol improvements for media delivery and latency reduction.
Research is being conducted on immersive voice services, avatar communications, and AI applications in media.
The transition to 6G is anticipated to provide smarter wireless capabilities, expanding beyond traditional communication.
5G-MAG Insight: We are in continuous exchange with 3GPP on new and ongoing work. It will be key in 5G-MAG to bring the work done in 3GPP to life for proof-of-concepts, trials and deployments.
Insights from Will Law - Akamai
Will (Chief Scientist at Akamai and, among others, inventor of dash.js – as Thomas remembered) took on the challenge to present five key new innovations in the delivery of media in less than 10 minutes. And as always, Will delivered.
Will's 5 facts
The Common Access Token (CAT) aims to create a standardized method for media access across different CDNs and players, improving efficiency and performance.
Common Media Client Data (CMCD) facilitates communication between media players and CDNs, enabling better content delivery and monitoring.
Content steering allows distributors to optimize CDN usage based on performance, capacity, and cost, ensuring better service delivery.
AI codecs leverage deep learning to enhance video compression and quality, offering significant improvements over traditional codecs for specific content types.
Media over QUIC (MoQ) is an emerging protocol that enhances media streaming capabilities, supporting different latency regimes for various use cases.
5G-MAG Insight: We need to educate us and our members about these technologies and identify if and how they are useful in 3GPP's Media Delivery systems. As a reminder, 3GPP is already addressing those in the Advanced Media Delivery study and we want them to hit our 5G-MAG Reference Tools to support standardization, interop and testing.
Andrew Murphy - BBC R&D
Andrew, an expert for 3GPP radio and media technologies from BBC, summarized a paper presented in the IBC conference on BBC’s “Project Timbre: How well do mobile networks work for live audio streaming?“. The elephant was also in the room: Can DAB+ be naturally replaced by streaming?
Andrew's 5 facts
The popularity of audio streaming is rising, with significant user engagement reported by platforms like BBC Sounds.
Mobile networks play a critical role in delivering live audio streaming, with 4G coverage deemed nearly universal in the EU.
Variability exists in performance and QoE among different mobile network operators, even within covered areas.
Signal strength does not necessarily correlate with delivery times for audio segments, indicating complexities in network performance.
Future work includes understanding new standards like 5G Media Streaming and collaborating with MNOs to enhance QoE.
5G-MAG Insight: BBC projects to prepare the transition to an on-line only distribution world are exciting case studies for 5G-MAG to learn from and to collaborate to make the journey happen.
Insights from "Deploying 5G: Media Streaming, 5G Broadcast & NTNs"
Jordi took over from Thomas to introduce an exciting session on deployments backed by reference implementations and trials.
Insights from Daniel Silhavy - Fraunhofer FOKUS
The 5G-MAG Reference Tools session, led by Daniel (a passionate developer, coordinator, communicator and expert in making things happen) from Fraunhofer FOKUS, provided details on how open-source reference implementations foster the deployment of technologies related to media streaming, broadcasting, public warning systems, multicast or immersive media, among others.
The session featured demo videos and an overview of key topics including 5G downlink media streaming, LTE-based 5G broadcast, and public warning systems. Participants can engage with various demos available at IBC booths and access extensive documentation on the 5G-MAG Developer Space.
The initiative promotes collaboration in the developer community, offering tools for testing and prototyping while encouraging contributions from industry stakeholders through open specifications and an open-source model.
What can we add? A big thank you to the developers and contributors! Join the 5G-MAG Reference Tools Community!
Insights from Joel Grotz - SES
Joel, from SES and a super-expert in satellite technologies deeply involved in 3GPP, discusses the evolution from traditional satellite broadcasting to modern 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (5G-NTN). Key topics include the operational capabilities of different satellite orbits (GEO, MEO, LEO), the importance of multicast and broadcast services in scaling user bases, and the dynamic nature of 5G-NTN networks that necessitate advanced handover scenarios for mobile users.
Joel's 5 facts
5G-MAG is analysing the possibilities of using NTNs to optimize media delivery by utilizing modern internet video technologies while enhancing accessibility across global 3GPP devices.
5G-NTN facilitates the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks, enabling improved media delivery and broader coverage.
Different satellite orbits serve distinct purposes in 5G-NTN, with GEO providing wide area coverage and MEO/LEO supporting customizable global cells based on demand.
Multicast and broadcast scenarios are critical for effective communication in integrated satellite-terrestrial networks, allowing for efficient service scaling.
The evolving nature of 5G-NTN requires advanced techniques for broadcast service handovers, particularly for mobile users transitioning between different coverage areas.
5G-MAG Insight: With NTNs as a way to achieve ubiquitous coverage and video as a key driver in network traffic, the match between 3GPP's network technologies and media delivery systems sounds natural. Let's make it happen consistently.
Insights from Gaelle Kaminsky - TDF
Gaelle, TDF and a gold medal winner for their trials during the Olympics, explained how the French operator was set to launch a live test for 5G broadcast coinciding with the Olympics involving around 150 Xiaomi smartphones. The rollout of 5G broadcast is planned to expand significantly by 2028, with the shut down of some DVB-T2 multiplexes.
Gaelle's 5 facts
The live test aims to enhance DTT access using 5G technology during the Olympics.
A significant portion of the French population already has access to mobile services, making this initiative timely.
The technology allows for high-quality, low-latency viewing experiences, even while commuting.
Initial user feedback on the technology has been very favorable, indicating strong market potential.
The 5G broadcast rollout is structured to gradually increase user accessibility and channel offerings over the coming years.
5G-MAG Insight: Move steps further to enhance the trials with a better integration into the on-line delivery chain and common practices for content hosting and client operations. The necessary building blocks are in the 3GPP specs already.
Insights from Javier Rodriguez - Qualcomm (Slides)
A young engineer from Galicia who knows all about 3GPP's physical layer processing, Javier, Qualcomm. He discusses the advancements and potential of 5G broadcast deployments and the the technical integration of 5G with existing broadcasting standards. All the details in the papers at the IBC conference.
Javier's 5 facts
5G broadcast technology is designed to enhance content delivery efficiency by utilizing mixed-mode multicast and dedicated broadcast infrastructure.
Global interest and trials are expanding rapidly, with projects in regions like Europe, the US, and Asia indicating a growing market for 5G broadcasting solutions.
Technical challenges include the integration of 5G with existing broadcasting standards, necessitating coexistence mechanisms to support legacy devices.
Dynamic switching between broadcast and unicast modes allows for flexible content delivery, catering to diverse use cases and ecosystem requirements.
The future of broadcasting will likely involve hybrid solutions that leverage both traditional and 5G technologies, ensuring broader access to content across various devices.
5G-MAG Insight: Continue supporting the standardization, testing and PoCs our members want to pursue.
Insights from "Transforming Media Production with APIs and 5G Networks"
Jordi continued now moderating a session with a panel discussion among the four speakers. They briefly introduced their main areas of interest, it was all about NPNs in its two flavours (private and public network based) and the way connectivity and internet-based media is more and more capable of supporting complex media production workflows.
Insights from Ronan Poullaouec - Haivision
First to kick-off was Ronan, Haivision, who spent the whole summer dealing with an extraordinary event, the Olympics in Paris.
Ronan's 5 facts
The implementation of 5G technology dramatically enhances live media production capabilities.
The use of mobile devices, like Samsung S24 smartphones, facilitates immersive viewer experiences.
Remote control of camera settings through applications allows for flexible and dynamic content creation.
High-definition streaming with low latency is crucial for delivering quality live broadcasts during major events.
The integration of APIs ensures seamless collaboration between different technological components in media production.
Insights from Hartmut Wittig - Deutsche Telekom
Hartmut, Deutsche Telekom and fully involved in the world of network capability exposure through APIs.
Hartmut's 5 facts
5G offers speeds up to 210 times faster than 4G, enhancing user experience.
Latency is reduced to as low as 1 ms, enabling real-time applications.
Network slicing allows tailored connectivity solutions for specific use cases.
The technology supports a vast number of connections, facilitating smart city infrastructure.
Telekom’s 5G network enhances mobile journalism, providing reliable live streaming capabilities.
Insights from Peter Sykes - Sony Europe
Peter, with Sony and fully on track with the idea to use modern device form factors as capture equipment while leveraging the power of the internet for media processing.
Peter's 5 facts
The New Generation Codec is vital for achieving ultra-low latency and high-quality video transmission over 5G networks.
Specific devices like the PDT-FP1 and HEVC encoders/decoders play crucial roles in facilitating 5G data transfers and media processing.
The orchestration of media across LAN/WAN networks is essential for efficient content delivery and management.
Edge devices enhance the performance of 5G applications by processing data closer to the source, reducing latency.
Integrating tools like VideoIPath and C3P/Ci Media Cloud supports streamlined workflows for content creators in the 5G ecosystem.
Insights from Jens Schilder - RTL Deutschland
Jens, the guy that needs all of this in place both on the streets and in the studio for RTL's daily operations.
Jens' 5 facts
Public 5G networks offer reliable signal transmission through network slicing, even with heavy occupancy.
Only a single modem is required for connectivity in non-public networks.
Non-public networks, like the RTL 5G network, enable localized coverage for specific applications, such as broadcasting.
The RTL 5G non-public network is already operational in significant live events, showcasing its practical application.
There is potential for expanding local 5G networks to external locations, enhancing event connectivity.
5G-MAG Insight: Keep educating the industry on the potential of 3GPP's systems beyond the usual promo of high-data rates and low latency. Opportunities with lightweight onboarding, use of TSN features, uplink streaming, QoS policies, network APIs... there's much more to come beyond just usual connectivity.
Insights from "Beyond 2D, XR and Immersive Media"
Thomas introduced the speakers of the topic of the last session – indicating that we have initiated the work on XR and Beyond 2D in 5G-MAG to get more hands-on to develop new experiences – many of the topics run under the MPEG project for Immersive Media Representation, MPEG-I.
Insights from Lukasz Litwic - Ericsson & MC-IF
Lukasz, beyond his role in Ericsson and JVET, is also interop WG chair in MC-IF and has deep knowledge and background on the latest video compression technologies. He gave use an answer how and when the latest video codec from MPEG, VVC, developed under the MPEG-I umbrella, is fit for purpose of mobile video delivery.
Lukasz' 5 facts:
VVC provides significant bitrate savings (40-60%) over HEVC, facilitating more efficient video streaming.
The demand for high-definition content is driving the transition from traditional broadcasting to digital formats, particularly highlighted during the Olympic Games.
VVC is compatible with multiple devices, with successful trials reported across various regions, including China and India.
The technology supports advanced video applications, including real-time communication and immersive experiences, indicating a shift towards more interactive content.
Advocacy for VVC interoperability is essential for its widespread adoption and effective use across different platforms and services.
5G-MAG Insight: New codecs provide new opportunities for 5G Media delivery – 5G-MAG should identify those opportunities and bring them to life.
Insights from Mickael Raulet - Ateme
Mickael, in his role of CTO of ATEME, is thought leader on latest video coding and delivery topics that are hitting the market. ATEME was core contributor to Apple’s Spatial video format and Mickael, now based in Miami, FL, shared the insights into the experiences and also the technologies – many of those built on MPEG standards.
Mickael's 5 facts
Apple is integrating 3D movie support into its ecosystem, enhancing user experience with the Vision Pro.
The MV-HEVC codec provides a more efficient way to encode and stream 3D content, improving quality and reducing bitrate.
The collaboration with major players like Disney and Dolby indicates a significant shift towards immersive media experiences.
Approximately 200 titles will be available at launch, suggesting a robust initial offering for users.
Continuous improvements in compression efficiency and perceptual quality are planned, indicating a commitment to enhancing the 3D viewing experience.
5G-MAG Insight: The Apple spatial video format is an interoperable format for beyond 2D video representations and enables fascinating experiences on AVPs – as shown by Mickael. 5G-MAG is encouraged to support the full standardization of the format and the integration into 5G media delivery systems.
Insights from Valérie Allié - InterDigital
Valérie, leading at InterDigital a team of passionate active contributors to the development of standards under the MPEG-I umbrella, in particular for volumetric video technologies. Valérie provided insights how Interdigital brings MPEG-I video technologies to live.
Demos for the attendees where prepared and presented by the teams of InterDigital and Philips.
And... by the way, the tools are available for the community and we welcome feedback. Request access to the V3C Immersive Platform: Early access
Valérie's 5 facts:
The MPEG V3C standard enables efficient delivery of volumetric video by leveraging existing 2D codecs.
Real-time streaming and decoding capabilities are essential for immersive experiences.
Haptic feedback can significantly enhance user engagement in volumetric video applications.
Collaborations among tech companies are critical for developing and deploying new immersive technologies.
The V3C Immersive Platform supports diverse rendering options for different viewing modalities.
5G-MAG Insight: New representation formats including volumetric video and haptics have needs for interoperable work flows and may have new network delivery requirements – 5G-MAG is encouraged in supporting the media industry to get hands-on to these new experiences.
Insights from Nils Duval - Motion Spell (Slides)
Thomas introduced Nils as one of the core contributors to all MPEG-I and 3GPP immersive projects, not on spec level, but in the reference software tools – outstandingly talented, and very innovative in implementations and software design. Nils have insights into the XR projects in MPEG and 5G-MAG.
Nils' 5 facts:
The XR Player is developed in Unity3D and adheres to ISO/IEC 23090-14 standards, allowing for advanced media rendering.
The Media Access Function (MAF) API is central to the project, enabling structured access to media assets in XR applications.
Blender has been extended for 3D scene authoring, ensuring compatibility with emerging XR standards and formats.
Open-source initiatives lower barriers for developers, fostering innovation and collaboration in XR content creation and consumption.
The project emphasizes interactivity and spatial audio rendering, enhancing the immersive quality of XR experiences.
5G-MAG Insight: Open source efforts lower the barrier of technology adoption. 5G-MAG is encouraged to support the development of reference tools for XR services.
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