arXiv:2403.16951v1 Announce Type: new
Abstract: Multimedia applications, mainly video streaming services, are currently the dominant source of network load worldwide. In recent Video-on-Demand (VoD) and live video streaming services, traditional streaming delivery techniques have been replaced by adaptive solutions based on the HTTP protocol. Current trends toward high-resolution (e.g., 8K) and/or low-latency VoD and live video streaming pose new challenges to end-to-end (E2E) bandwidth demand and have stringent delay requirements. To do this, video providers typically rely on Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) to ensure that they provide scalable video streaming services. To support future streaming scenarios involving millions of users, it is necessary to increase the CDNs’ efficiency. It is widely agreed that these requirements may be satisfied by adopting emerging networking techniques to present Network-Assisted Video Streaming (NAVS) methods. Motivated by this, this thesis goes one step beyond traditional pure client-based HAS algorithms by incorporating (an) in-network component(s) with a broader view of the network to present completely transparent NAVS solutions for HAS clients.
Expert Commentary:

This article discusses the challenges faced by multimedia applications, specifically video streaming services, in terms of network load and delivery techniques. With the increasing popularity of high-resolution and low-latency video streaming, there is a need to ensure sufficient bandwidth and minimize delays. Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) have been utilized to support these streaming scenarios and provide scalable video streaming services.

However, as the demand for streaming services continues to grow and involve millions of users, CDNs need to become more efficient. This is where the concept of Network-Assisted Video Streaming (NAVS) methods comes into play. By incorporating in-network components with a broader view of the network, NAVS solutions can enhance the performance of HTTP-based adaptive streaming (HAS) algorithms used by clients.

The multi-disciplinary nature of this concept lies in the combination of networking techniques and multimedia information systems. It is not just about optimizing delivery techniques, but also considering the overall network infrastructure to improve the quality of video streaming services.

This article highlights the importance of adopting emerging networking techniques and implementing NAVS solutions to address the bandwidth and delay requirements of modern video streaming services. It is a step forward in the evolution of multimedia systems, as it combines the fields of networking, multimedia, and information systems.

In relation to animations, artificial reality, augmented reality, and virtual realities, the concept of NAVS can play a significant role in enhancing the delivery of multimedia content in these scenarios. As these technologies heavily rely on real-time and high-quality streaming, optimizing the network infrastructure through NAVS solutions can greatly improve the overall user experience.

Overall, the article brings attention to the need for efficient content delivery in multimedia applications and proposes the adoption of NAVS methods as a solution. By incorporating networking techniques and considering the wider context of the network, it aims to improve video streaming services and meet the growing demands of the industry.
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