As the Olympic Games Paris 2024 approaches, an exciting milestone in broadcast technology is set to unfold. Intel, a global leader in computing innovation, is poised to revolutionize the viewing experience by showcasing the world's first 8K over-the-top (OTT) broadcast. This historic endeavor, fueled by Intel's advanced 5th-generation Xeon CPUs and robust Arc GPUs, promises to deliver stunning visuals and astonishing clarity to audiences around the globe. In a collaboration with Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), broadcasters, and numerous technology partners, Intel is ready to redefine the standards of live streaming at one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world.
Pioneering 8K Technology
For many, the concept of 8K broadcasting might sound like a distant dream. However, Intel has made significant advancements to bring this dream to fruition. With the Olympic Games set to make history, the integration of high-performance technology is crucial. Intel’s partnership with OBS signifies not only a commitment to excellence but also a revolutionary shift in how we experience live events.
The journey into 8K streaming begins with Intel's state-of-the-art servers, equipped with both 4th-gen (Sapphire Rapids) and cutting-edge 5th-gen Xeon processors (Emerald Rapids). These processors feature the Intel Advanced Matrix Extensions (AMX) AI accelerator, which empowers them to handle demanding computational tasks. This technology stands out by enabling an astonishing compression capability, transforming raw live feeds of up to 48 gigabits per second into streamlined broadcasts at just 40 to 60 megabits per second.
Engineering High-Definition Experiences
The excitement of the Olympic Games is matched only by the technology that makes it possible. Broadcast-grade cameras stationed at select venues are poised to capture the action in breathtaking 8K resolution at 60 frames per second, all while maintaining high dynamic range (HDR) quality and delivering rich audio with up to 32 channels. Such precision in capturing the essence of live sports paves the way for an unparalleled viewing experience.
Intel's innovative “broadcast in a box” encoder, powered by their revolutionary 5th generation Xeon CPUs, is designed to process this high-definition content with remarkable efficiency. In less than 400 milliseconds, this cutting-edge technology ensures that content is encoded and distributed across the internet, mere moments after it is captured. This remarkable capability solidifies Intel’s role at the forefront of digital broadcasting.
Delivering the Experience Worldwide
With 8K technology navigating uncharted territories, the challenge extends beyond capturing high-quality footage; delivering it seamlessly to viewers around the world is equally complex. Intel has optimized this process by utilizing AI-driven broadcast servers that efficiently encode and compress data before it reaches various media rights holders. This new encoding technology promises to uphold the integrity and quality of the broadcast while reducing the bit rate necessary for transmission.
As Ravindra Velhal, Intel's Global Content Technology Strategist, elaborates, the main objective of this initiative is to take great strides toward making 8K broadcasting a standard feature in homes worldwide. The company aims to deliver 8K streaming with advanced H.266/VVC encoding technologies designed for efficiency and high-quality output. This endeavor signifies an important step in transforming the traditional broadcasting landscape.
Behind The Scenes of 8K Live Streaming
Underpinning Intel’s ambitious 8K broadcasting project is a remarkable architecture designed to ensure successful data management and real-time delivery. PCs powered by Intel Core i9 processors, integrated with powerful Intel Arc graphics processing units (GPUs), will decode the OBS live stream efficiently. Coupled with Intel’s high-bandwidth digital content protection, these systems are capable of producing an unblemished viewing experience on 8K TVs, making the awe-inspiring resolution readily accessible to global audiences.
Moreover, the use of advanced hardware and AI capabilities is projected to greatly enhance the encoding procedures. Intel’s innovations, including AMX and Deep Learning Boost technologies, allow for real-time live encoding of 8K/60FPS/HDR footage, providing an extraordinary experience from event to screen. The intricate balance of these advanced technologies stands as a testament to Intel's commitment to revolutionizing broadcast standards.
A Legacy of Innovation
This Olympic Games Paris 2024 marks a significant era for Intel as it continues to push the envelope in broadcast technology. The company successfully streamed 416 hours of live and recorded content during the Tokyo 2020 Games, processing a staggering 4.7 petabytes of data. Following this achievement, during the Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022, Intel took a pioneering step by delivering the first-ever 8K virtual reality feed in collaboration with OBS and various technology providers.
Now, as the next Olympic Games draw near, Intel is set to leverage this experience to deliver selected events from Paris to Intel campuses and broadcasters worldwide. This initiative represents a culmination of efforts and expertise that seeks to enhance how audiences engage with athletic competition.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
The advent of 8K OTT broadcasting signifies more than just a leap in technology; it represents a vision for the future of live sports viewing. With Intel leading the way, audiences can anticipate not just higher resolutions, but a more immersive experience filled with dynamic features designed to capture every thrilling moment. As the world anticipates the stunning displays of athletic prowess during the Olympic Games Paris 2024, Intel stands ready to deliver a technologically advanced and breathtaking viewing experience, setting a new standard for sports broadcasting.