Hi there! In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to explore the popular live streaming service Ustream from top to bottom.
Overview
Here‘s what we‘ll be covering regarding Ustream‘s past, present and future:
- Background: The founding story and key milestones of Ustream over the years.
- Services: Details on Ustream‘s video streaming capabilities and platform features.
- IBM Acquisition: What happened when IBM purchased Ustream for $150 million in 2016.
- Business Model: How Ustream and now IBM Cloud Video generate revenue.
- Controversies: Analysis of Ustream‘s struggles with blocking legitimate content.
- FAQs: Answers to common questions about Ustream to round out your knowledge.
By the end, you’ll have the complete picture on Ustream and IBM Cloud Video!
The History of Ustream
Ustream began when founders John Ham, Brad Hunstable and Dr. Gyula Feher launched the live video streaming service in 2007.
As U.S. Army officers, Ham and Hunstable conceived Ustream as a way for deployed soldiers to video chat with family members back home. Early funding came from investors like SoftBank Capital and DCM Ventures, who injected $60 million into the promising startup.
Ustream Key Milestones
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2007 | Ustream launched |
| 2012 | Wins Best Streaming Innovation award |
| 2013 | Named one of 500 fastest growing U.S. companies |
| 2016 | Acquired by IBM for $150 million |
In the nine years before being bought out by IBM, Ustream grew into a video powerhouse. According to IBM statistics, it broadcast 2 million streams and boasted 80 million viewers monthly at its peak.
We‘ll analyze what happened after IBM entered the picture next.
IBM Acquisition Takes Center Stage
In 2016, computing giant IBM rocked the industry when it acquired Ustream. According to financial records, IBM paid approximately $150 million to take over the video platform.
IBM then merged Ustream along with earlier acquisitions like Clearleap to form IBM Cloud Video services. Integrating these products allowed IBM Cloud Video to scale up operations to host major broadcast events like championships and political conventions.
Additionally, the merger delivered IBM stock gains as shareholders responded positively to the move. Since transitioning under the IBM umbrella, Ustream continues to find success. For example:
- Streaming Media gave IBM Cloud Video its Readers’ Choice Award consecutively from 2016 to 2018.
Clearly the future looks bright for Ustream-turned-IBM Cloud Video. Next let‘s break down how the platform actually makes money.
Business Model: Subscription Plans
So how do the Ustream and IBM Cloud Video platforms generate revenue after all these years?
IBM Cloud Video Pricing Tiers
| Plan | Price/Month |
|---|---|
| Silver | $99 |
| Gold | $499 |
| Platinum | $999 |
The answer lies in a straightforward subscription-based model. IBM structures its video offering into three tiered payment plans as you can see above.
Higher tiers naturally unlock more advanced functionality, storage and support capabilities. Press outlets also confirm custom enterprise pricing exists for large clients needing tailored solutions.
Additionally you can test drive IBM Cloud Video yourself with a 30-day free trial before committing.
Now let‘s shift gears to an area Ustream likely wants to forget – the copyright controversy storm.
Automated Blocking Backlash
For the most part Ustream maintained stellar industry standing over the years. But in 2012, one product decision dragged Ustream‘s name through the mud.
In an effort to proactively detect copyrighted streams, Ustream deployed automated blocking algorithms. However the imperfect filters ended up taking down legitimate content like NASA streams and major awards shows according to Mashable.
The automated system embarrassed itself further when Salesforce’s 2012 conference keynote was blocked mid-stream. Ultimately Ustream admitted fault and resolved the issues after intense public scrutiny.
Let‘s wrap up with some frequently asked questions about the platform.
FAQs
Here are quick answers to some common Ustream questions:
When was Ustream founded?
- Ustream was founded in 2007 by John Ham, Brad Hunstable and Dr. Gyula Feher.
What is Ustream called now?
- Post IBM acquisition, Ustream is now known as IBM Cloud Video.
Who owns Ustream today?
- With the purchase back in 2016, IBM now owns the rights to Ustream and its video streaming technologies.
Is Ustream still around then?
- Yep! Although now rebranded, you can still access Ustream video services through IBM Cloud Video.
What makes Ustream unique?
- Ustream separates itself with innovative live streaming features that emphasize interactivity and real-time engagement.
And there you have it – the full low-down on Ustream from its humble start-up days up through its new IBM backed chapter! Thanks for reading and let me know if you have any other questions.
