Crystal announced API integration between Crystal Connect and Amazon Web Services (AWS) Elemental Live and AWS Elemental MediaTailor. The API integration will be demonstrated at IBC show, whereby AWS Elemental MediaTailor, using markers from Crystal Connect, will insert ads into a broadcast stream that does not contain any commercial break markers.
With the advent of over-the-top (OTT) video and the reduction in time spent watching ads, content providers are turning to targeted advertising to open up new revenue possibilities. However, without precise content break markers, it is not possible to accurately replace ads. Ideally, for each ad, these markers should include the identity of the playing ad and signals for the ad start, ad end and ad duration, to the frame.
AWS Media Services are managed cloud services designed for the preparation, processing, and delivery of broadcast and multiscreen video. Services supported by the API integration include AWS Elemental MediaTailor, which lets customers insert individually targeted advertising into video streams without sacrificing quality of service (QoS). With AWS Elemental MediaTailor, viewers of live or on-demand video each receive a stream that combines content with ads personalized to them.
Crystal Connect is designed to signal AWS Elemental MediaTailor with the key markers for all ads in a linear feed. It automatically inserts markers into a video stream without changing existing workflows and systems. Connect is always aware of every event playing out in the linear channel, including all program segments and commercial spots. It also retrieves data from other systems including Traffic and MAM systems. All of this data, applied with business rules, means downstream partners can execute ad insertion in over-the-top video.
Roger Franklin, CEO, Crystal, commented, "Consumers are much more likely to engage with ads that are relevant to them. The API integration between Crystal Connect and AWS Elemental MediaTailor allows for targeting of full ad inventory, thereby opening up new revenue opportunities. The combination of these two solutions means a high quality and relevant experience for consumers, while also being profitable for the media companies."