iBEAM Broadcasting Corporation was a Media Streaming Company. Established in 1998, iBEAM was instrumental in the invention of the Content Delivery Network for Streaming Media. The company played a pivotal role in aiding giants like Real Networks and Microsoft in scaling their services. iBEAM was responsible for introducing groundbreaking technologies such as global load balancing, edge networking, distributed streaming, and digital data satellite delivery. In December, 2001, iBEAM's was acquired by Williams Communications Group Inc., integrating iBEAM's streaming and Webcasting business into its broadband media operations.[2]
History
iBEAM was at the forefront of streaming media during its early days, launching major streaming properties between 1998 and 2001. This includes prominent names like MTVi, CNN, and Bloomberg. The company's innovative approach to streaming was evident when it was named the official streaming provider for SUPERBOWL.COM, the NFL's official website for Super Bowl XXXV in 2001.[3]
iBEAM pioneered high fidelity video streaming via satellite, ad-enabled content, to internet viewers. Major media and entertainment including BBC, Bloomberg, MSNBC, FOX, NFL, Golf Channel, the Academy Awards, and a significant portion of internet radio were webcast via iBEAM. The company's network architecture bypassed internet congestion, bringing broadcast quality streaming video to entertainment audiences at a lower cost than other CDN cached distribution methods. iBEAM was the first company to invent and deploy a network dedicated to streaming media and the "edge network" concept. At its peak, iBEAM traded at $2 billion, raised over $330 million through private funding and its IPO, delivered 80% of all audio streaming on the Internet, and owned all top media accounts in the US. Among its achievements, iBEAM was the first to insert ads into streaming media, first with FCC rights, first to deliver IP/TV streaming service via satellite, developed Real's G2 reflector technology, helped design the first layer 7 switch with Foundry Networks and was the first to simulcast a TV show. However, iBEAM's business relationships and large media customer partners did not survive the bubble bursting in 2001. Prior to its dissolution, iBEAM was purchased by Williams Communications.[4]
Technological Advancements
iBEAM's technological prowess was evident in its ability to deliver high-quality video and audio over the Internet. The company's network utilized satellite and fiber-optic technologies to deliver content to MaxCaster media serving systems. These systems were strategically located in Access Providers' networks near the end-user, on the edge of the Internet. This unique approach allowed streams to bypass the usual congestion, ensuring uninterrupted and high-quality live Webcasts.[3]
iBEAM announced the launch of its 'Radio Solution', combining its PureStream Encoder solution and its On-target ad insertion service. This solution aimed to help terrestrial radio stations expand onto the Internet profitably. The PureStream Encoder allowed these stations to broadcast over the web with high-fidelity sound at a reduced data rate, leading to lower bandwidth consumption and costs. This encoding solution was developed in partnership with Octiv and Winnov. iBEAM's ad insertion service, adapted for the 'Radio Solution', facilitated in-stream insertion of ads, especially for terrestrial radio stations streaming live but wanting to sell separate Internet advertising.[5]
Partnerships and Solutions
iBEAM collaborated with Launch.com to offer "Launch College Direct," a service that broadcasts music and videos onto campus networks via servers connected to Launch by satellite. This high-volume streaming was achieved through technology developed by iBEAM Broadcasting Corporation. The service was designed as a solution to Napster-related network problems at universities. Launch CEO Dave Goldberg highlighted the efficiency of this approach compared to traditional file-sharing methods, which often strain university networks.[6]
iBEAM also partnered with Microsoft, delivering high-quality Microsoft Windows Media audio and video via broadband-optimized content delivery networks. This collaboration was part of Microsoft's Windows Media Broadband Jumpstart initiative, which aimed to provide high-speed, high-quality content from various partners. iBEAM's technology ensured that anyone with a cable modem, DSL connection, or high-speed corporate or educational Internet connection could experience high-quality streaming content.[7]
In a significant partnership, Kino Digital, a local company, collaborated with iBEAM Broadcasting Corp. to bring Webcasting capabilities to Tucson. iBeam's On-Demand and On-Air Webcasting services, known for their "near television quality visual and CD quality audio," were resold by Kino to Tucson businesses for various functions. With this agreement, Kino became a part of iBeam's vast network, which delivered 60 million streams per month for numerous companies across multiple networks.[8]
Partnerships and Solutions
iBEAM collaborated with Launch.com to offer "Launch College Direct," a service that broadcasts music and videos onto campus networks via servers connected to Launch by satellite. This high-volume streaming was achieved through technology developed by iBEAM Broadcasting Corporation. The service was designed as a solution to Napster-related network problems at universities. Launch CEO Dave Goldberg highlighted the efficiency of this approach compared to traditional file-sharing methods, which often strain university networks.[6]
iBEAM also partnered with Microsoft, delivering high-quality Microsoft Windows Media audio and video via broadband-optimized content delivery networks. This collaboration was part of Microsoft's Windows Media Broadband Jumpstart initiative, which aimed to provide high-speed, high-quality content from various partners. iBEAM's technology ensured that anyone with a cable modem, DSL connection, or high-speed corporate or educational Internet connection could experience high-quality streaming content.[7]
iBEAM was among the tech partners for the "Drew Cam" event, which was a streaming Webisode of ABC's "The Drew Carey Show" produced by Warner Bros. Online. The Webisode attracted nearly 2 million visits and showcased events inside Carey's house when he was at work. This initiative was a significant step in blending television and internet, reaching large audiences via streaming media. The event was a testament to the potential of streaming media in capturing audiences, rivaling traditional cable programming.[9]
Legacy
iBEAM's legacy in the streaming media industry is significant. The company's On-Target ad insertion technology and Activecast interactive Webcasting capabilities have set standards in the industry. By the time of its prominence, iBEAM was delivering nearly 60 million streams per month across its vast network. The company's clientele included industry leaders like MTVi, Sony Music Entertainment, and LAUNCH.com.[3]
iBEAM also partnered with Microsoft, delivering high-quality Microsoft Windows Media audio and video via broadband-optimized content delivery networks. This collaboration was part of Microsoft's Windows Media Broadband Jumpstart initiative, which aimed to provide high-speed, high-quality content from various partners. iBEAM's technology ensured that anyone with a cable modem, DSL connection, or high-speed corporate or educational Internet connection could experience high-quality streaming content.[7]
