Microsoft aims for a high def web with Silverlight
GHoosdum
Icrontian
Microsoft has announced a new technology that allows high-definition video to be streamed over the web. Called Silverlight, this technology is aimed at the same market served by Adobe Flash and Apple's Quicktime.
Flash is undoubtedly the current king of video streaming via the web, being the technological basis of both YouTube and Google Video. However, one key thing that Silverlight can provide that Flash can't is high-def content. Silverlight also promises rich interactive application (RIA) delivery, much like Flash or Flex.
Unlike Microsoft's own proprietary and insecure ActiveX control technology, Silverlight is both cross-platform and cross-browser. The plugin-based technology works on both Mac and PC, using Firefox, Safari, and of course MSIE.
Among others, Netflix has signed on as a supporter for Silverlight. Is high-def streaming of movies through Silverlight on your Netflix account in your future?
More information about Silverlight and Microsoft's content vision can be found in the Microsoft press release.
Flash is undoubtedly the current king of video streaming via the web, being the technological basis of both YouTube and Google Video. However, one key thing that Silverlight can provide that Flash can't is high-def content. Silverlight also promises rich interactive application (RIA) delivery, much like Flash or Flex.
Unlike Microsoft's own proprietary and insecure ActiveX control technology, Silverlight is both cross-platform and cross-browser. The plugin-based technology works on both Mac and PC, using Firefox, Safari, and of course MSIE.
Among others, Netflix has signed on as a supporter for Silverlight. Is high-def streaming of movies through Silverlight on your Netflix account in your future?
More information about Silverlight and Microsoft's content vision can be found in the Microsoft press release.
0
Comments
OK, rant over. I'll read the article now. :rolleyes2
This is no slam on you GHoosdum. Half the purpose of posting news here is to start discussion. Well, it worked. Every quarter some big enterprise comes out with a plan that will shake modern communications and entertainment to its foundations. I'm still waiting.
Silverlight isn't so much a video player as it is a system of delivery for the HD content; the plugin will allow both video playback and RIA interactivity, much like the Flash plugin does, only with an MS stamp on it instead.
Of course, there's little doubt that DRM will be built right in...
Be careful what you say, you're giving Microsoft fuel for a marketing campaign:
"What's all the buzz about? Silverlight!"