Akamai Pioneers Cloud-Based Computing with Innovative VPUs for Media Streaming

Akamai Introduces Groundbreaking Cloud Compute Instances Using VPUs

Akamai Technologies has taken a bold step in the realm of cloud computing by launching Akamai Cloud Accelerated Compute Instances, which utilize NETINT video processing units (VPUs). This innovative offering represents the first of its kind in the cloud space, allowing businesses to leverage specialized hardware for highly efficient video processing.

The newly unveiled instances are tailored for tasks that require optimal video streaming, making them indispensable for media companies focused on delivering high-quality content. Traditionally, media companies would be required to buy NETINT's VPU hardware outright and manage it on-premises, which involved substantial investment in equipment and infrastructure. Now, with Akamai’s Accelerated Compute Instances, companies can access this powerful technology without the burden of hefty initial costs.

Akamai's VPUs serve to optimize resources, specifically designed to tackle workloads that prioritize both cost efficiency and energy consumption. For instance, the Quadra T1U VPU can support up to 8K resolution encoding in various formats, including HEVC and AV1, optimizing performance while maintaining the high-quality output expected in today's media landscape. With the ability to encode 32 live streams simultaneously at 1080p broadcast quality, this technology ensures scalability without inflating operational costs.

The demand for video content continues to surge, driven by the rise of social media, user-generated video, and on-demand streaming services. In response to this market evolution, Akamai's innovative cloud solutions come as a boon for media companies looking to improve their operational efficiency while enhancing user experiences.

Jon Alexander, Vice President of Product Management at Akamai, articulated the transformative nature of these instances, stating, "By bringing traditionally hardware-confined power to the cloud, we’re removing barriers that have held businesses back." He highlights that this development allows companies to reduce costs, streamline workflows, and ultimately deliver superior streaming experiences—a challenge the industry has faced for too long.

The offloading of compute-intensive video processing tasks to the VPU frees up valuable CPU resources for additional operations necessary for modern streaming, including dynamic packaging and software decoding. Randal Horne, Chief Revenue Officer at NETINT, emphasized the financial implications of this technology, indicating that businesses could achieve significant cost reductions with up to 20 times the throughput compared to traditional CPU-only solutions.

Akamai's move is not just about keeping pace with the competition; it’s about redefining the standards for cloud media services. Trusted by the top 10 video streaming services, Akamai continues to build its reputation as a leader in the industry, offering comprehensive solutions for tasks ranging from transcoding to content security.

In addition to VPUs, Akamai also provides NVIDIA GPUs optimized for transcoding, allowing for seamless media delivery at scale. This comprehensive cloud platform is inherently open, ensuring customers have control over their workflows while being able to select from a diverse array of software and integration partners.

Akamai is set to showcase its advancements at the upcoming 2025 NAB Show in Las Vegas, where industry professionals can explore the capabilities of its cloud services and how they cater to the evolving needs of media companies.

With this launch, Akamai reaffirms its commitment to pioneering advancements in cloud computing and providing media companies with the tools they need to succeed efficiently and effectively in a highly competitive digital landscape.