The merits of server-guided ad insertion (SGAI) were one of the big ad-tech talking points at this year’s IBC, but does the technology represent a step change for publishers?
Choosing the best way to insert addressable adverts into streams is one of the key technology dilemmas currently facing ad-supported streaming services.
Server-side ad insertion is often seen as the lynchpin of ad-tech in the streaming age, as media companies look to grow digital revenues to offset linear TV’s decline.
Historically, ads in OTT have either been inserted into a stream by the client (at the player or device level), or stitched into the stream by the server, without the need for client-side integration...
You are not signed in.
Only registered users can view this article.

Content Everywhere: Getting (more) personal in the AI era
Content Everywhere companies cite service personalisation as an area in which artificial intelligence (AI) and data will play an increasingly transformative role in the highly competitive streaming market.
/Hero Shot - LED Wall at NFTS Virtual_Launch_0128 (1).jpg)
Level up: Addressing the skills gap in virtual production
As virtual production technology becomes more ubiquitous, the need for real-world training and development for professionals of all levels becomes paramount. John Maxwell Hobbs explores the education and training programmes on offer from academic institutions and industry organisations.

Winning formula: Hydrogen to power motorsport vehicles and production tech
It’s only been four years since the debut of electric off-road racing series Extreme E but later this year it will relaunch as the first competitive motorsport powered by hydrogen.
Esports on the rise despite Olympic debut delay
Esports is on a roll. The global esports market passed the $2bn mark last year and is expected to be worth nearly $11bn by 2032. Tournament prize money is rising and audiences on channels like Twitch are expected to top 640 million worldwide in 2025. IBC365 takes a closer look at the events shaking up the esports landscape.

Content Credentials: Initiative breaks through but can it achieve industrial scale?
The C2PA-created open standard has reached a significant level of support and adoption, but there remains work to do before it fully delivers. Adrian Pennington reports.