In a press release sent out today, Microsoft has announced that it has acquired VideoSurf. The VideoSurf company is like a Shazam for video, and enables you to search and “tag” individual frames of videos in real time to deliver more accurate video searches.
Over the coming month, Microsoft is looking to bring new content to their Xbox Live service, with the addition of nearly 40 world-leading TV and entertainment providers. Their new acquisition will provide Microsoft’s video partners with the ability to take full advantage of features such as voice search, which is now a feature on Microsoft’s Kinect motion controller for the Xbox 360.
Enhancing Xbox Live with VideoSurf Technology
Alex Garden, director of Xbox LIVE, explains how VideoSurf will be used by Microsoft.
“VideoSurf’s content analytics technology will enhance the search and discovery of entertainment content across our platform,”- “This holiday we will launch voice search across our entertainment partners on Xbox LIVE. Over time, as we integrate VideoSurf’s technology into our system, we are excited about the potential to have content tagged in real time to increase the speed and relevance of the search results.”
The integration of VideoSurf’s technology into Xbox Live is expected to revolutionize the way users interact with video content. By tagging individual frames, users will be able to find specific moments within a video quickly and efficiently. This could be particularly useful for sports highlights, movie scenes, or even educational content where finding a specific segment is crucial.
Implications for the Future of Video Search
The acquisition of VideoSurf by Microsoft is not just a strategic move to enhance Xbox Live but also a significant step forward in the broader field of video search technology. Traditional video search methods often rely on metadata and descriptions, which can be inaccurate or incomplete. VideoSurf’s frame-by-frame tagging offers a more granular and precise approach, potentially setting a new standard for the industry.
Moreover, the integration with Kinect’s voice search capabilities means that users can simply speak commands to find the content they are looking for. Imagine watching a movie and wanting to skip to a specific scene; with VideoSurf’s technology, you could just say, “Show me the car chase scene,” and be taken directly to that moment. This level of interactivity and precision could make Xbox Live a leading platform for video content consumption.
In addition to enhancing user experience, this technology could also provide valuable insights for content creators and advertisers. By analyzing which frames or scenes are most frequently searched and tagged, creators can gain a better understanding of what resonates with their audience. Advertisers could use this data to place more targeted ads, increasing the effectiveness of their campaigns.
The acquisition also opens up possibilities for collaboration with other Microsoft services. For instance, integrating VideoSurf’s technology with Bing could improve video search results across the web. Similarly, incorporating it into Microsoft Teams could make it easier to find specific moments in recorded meetings, enhancing productivity and collaboration.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s acquisition of VideoSurf represents a significant advancement in video search technology. By integrating this innovative technology into Xbox Live and potentially other Microsoft services, the company is poised to offer a more interactive, precise, and user-friendly experience. As Alex Garden mentioned, the potential for real-time content tagging could dramatically increase the speed and relevance of search results, making it easier than ever for users to find exactly what they are looking for. This move not only enhances Xbox Live but also sets the stage for future innovations in video search and content discovery.
Source: Microsoft
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
