Amazon launches 'Interactive Video Service' for businesses
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the entire world to switch to the routine of interacting, studying, and working remotely. Now, to help with this sudden shift, Amazon Web Services (AWS) is bringing a new Interactive Web Service (IVS) that allows businesses to add live video streams directly into their own apps and websites. Here is all you need to know about it.
Hosting livestreams has become critical for businesses
Ever since the pandemic broke out, companies, including players like Apple and Jio, have been hosting live streams on YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook to launch products and make important public announcements. But, while these dedicated streaming platforms provide a huge reach, they do not leave room for personalization according to the business in question - a problem many face these days.
This is where Amazon IVS comes in
To tackle this problem and add the element of personalization, Amazon is offering IVS as a solution. The service sets up a live video streaming experience for web or apps in a matter of minutes using the same technology that powers its Twitch live streaming services. It works seamlessly and plays live videos with latency as low as 2-3 seconds and timed interactive information.
Martin Beeby, Amazon Principal Developer Advocate, explains information display
"If you were live-streaming a product launch, you can synchronize additional product information to be displayed as new products appear in the video. You can even show a 'Buy Now' button that allows viewers to purchase the exact product they are watching."
How this service would work?
Beeby notes AWS customers can use the service by creating a channel using either the IVS Console or the API. "You can then use any standard streaming software to stream video to this channel, and the service does everything required to make the live video available to any viewer," he said, adding that IVS also includes a player SDK to simplify video integration.
How much will this cost?
Amazon says IVS will follow a pay-as-you-go model under which the final price will be determined according to the total duration of video streamed through the platform. The console and API of the service have been released and can be used starting today in Europe (Ireland), US East (N. Virginia), and US West (Oregon) regions. There is no word on wider availability yet.
