Tata Comms trials live 360-degree video streaming
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Tata Communications and Formula 1 have conducted a test of truly live 360-degree video streaming at the 2017 Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix.
To-date, any 360-degree video experiments in sports have been hampered by a 30-second delay between the 360-degree video and live TV feeds, preventing a widespread adoption of the technology.
This proof-of-concept by Tata Communications and Formula 1 is the first time when the live 360-degree video feeds and TV broadcast have been shown in complete sync.
There were two 360-degree cameras at the Marina Bay Street Circuit in Singapore in the trackside and paddock to show how viewers at home could immerse themselves in the world of F1 and experience these exclusive areas through a virtual reality (VR) like environment via the Official F1 App.
For example, during a Grand Prix build-up, fans could use their tablet to access a live 360-degree video feed from the paddock and see the biggest names in the sport. Or, during a race, as a driver pulls into the pits for a tyre change, fans could complement the action on TV with a 360-degree view of everything that is happening in the pit lane in real-time.
The live video feeds from the two cameras were distributed from the Marina Bay Street Circuit in Singapore back to Europe using Tata Communications’ Media Ecosystem. This includes the Video Connect service, which brings together traditional video contribution and IP connectivity globally in the cloud, underpinned by Tata Communications’ global network.
“Eliminating the delay in 360-degree video means that, for the first time, it’s possible to offer fans truly live 360-degree video experiences on a global scale,” said Mehul Kapadia, managing director of Tata Communications’ F1 Business.
“This will enable sports and entertainment organisations to engage with their audiences in new ways and generate new revenue streams – helping the 360-degree video and VR market achieve its $60 billion potential,” said Kapadia.
Questions & Answers
Q.What specifically was the main technical issue that this test aimed to resolve?
What specifically was the main technical issue that this test aimed to resolve?
The test aimed to eliminate the 30-second delay between 360-degree video and live TV feeds, which had previously prevented widespread adoption of the technology in sports.
Q.Where were the 360-degree cameras positioned during the trial?
Where were the 360-degree cameras positioned during the trial?
Two 360-degree cameras were placed at the Marina Bay Street Circuit in Singapore, specifically in the trackside and paddock areas.
Q.How did Tata Communications manage to distribute the live video feeds from Singapore to Europe?
How did Tata Communications manage to distribute the live video feeds from Singapore to Europe?
The live video feeds were distributed from the Marina Bay Street Circuit using Tata Communications’ Media Ecosystem, including the Video Connect service and their global network.
Q.What is the projected market value that the managing director mentioned for 360-degree video and VR?
What is the projected market value that the managing director mentioned for 360-degree video and VR?
Mehul Kapadia, managing director of Tata Communications’ F1 Business, stated that the 360-degree video and VR market has a potential to achieve $60 billion.
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