WS/MP4 (WebSocket MP4)
Quick look-up table
| WS/MP4 | |
|---|---|
| Type of streaming | Real time streaming |
| Development State | In active development |
| Expected Latency | < 3s |
| Connection type | HTTP(S) |
| Container type | MP4 |
| Where | Browsers, players |
| Default Port | 80, 443 |
| Modern codecs | All |
| Difficulty of read | Beginner |
| Notes | MistServer custom protocol |
What do I need to know about WS/MP4?
WS/MP4 is a custom protocol build around MP4. WS/MP4 uses HTTP(S) websockets to deliver MP4 frame by frame and allows for bi-directional communcation between player and server. The biggest benefit to WS/MP4 is that if there is support for MP4 then WS/MP4 can work as well. The player for WS/MP4 provided within MistServer is dependant on Media Source Extensions to work, so it is unsupported in Safari
When would you use WS/MP4?
Playback of media in browsers
WS/MP4 is a method to provide fast MP4 playback in all modern browsers except for Safari. As there is bi-directional communication the player and server work together to ensure the optimal playback experience. Slowing down playback slightly instead of buffering when connection issues appear or speeding up playback to catch up to the live point.
Things to know about WS/MP4
- The bi-directional communication allows MistServer to speed up or slow down playback to adjust for the current situation.
- The data used to determine playback quality are also available to use for statistics
Advantages of WS/MP4
- Faster and smarter MP4 playback in browsers
- Can contain all modern codecs
- Trickplay is supported
Disadvantages of WS/MP4
- Not a standardized specification
- No support for Safari browsers
How do you get started with WS/MP4?
Want to try out WS/MP4? All you need to do is download MistServer and try it out. If you'd like us to advise on the best use and practises Contact us to learn how we can help.