Media Gateway features

Updated

Key capabilities and common use cases for Media Gateway.

Media Gateway enables users to push content to Agora SDRTN(R) using standard streaming protocols such as RTMP and SRT. The channel host automatically publishes this streamed content to the correct channel. With Media Gateway, you can employ advanced transcoding capabilities on media streams for enhanced distribution.

The following figure shows the overall architecture of Media Gateway:

Product features

FeatureDescription
Media inputSupports generating a streaming key through a RESTful API or a local encryption algorithm, then pushing the source stream directly to Agora's gateway service. After a successful push, the media stream is automatically played in the channel for remote users.
Multiple media streaming formats and protocolsSupports H.264 and H.265 video codecs, AAC audio codec, RTMP and SRT push protocols, and FLV and MPEG-TS media formats.
Custom transcoding parametersSupports enabling transcoding for media streams input into the channel. If you enable transcoding, you can set parameters such as resolution, frame rate, bitrate, and whether to enable large and small streams.
Restricted access areaWhen activating Media Gateway, you specify the access area to ensure the transmission quality of the media stream.
Server event notification callbackAgora provides message notification services. After activating Media Gateway, you receive event notifications.

Related APIs and implementation entry points

Use the following references when you implement the core Media Gateway capabilities described above:

The main API groups map to product features as follows:

Feature areaAPIs or guides
Media input and stream key managementUse the streaming key APIs in the REST API overview to create, query, and delete stream keys. For a local stream key generation example, see the Quickstart.
Online stream controlUse the online stream APIs in the REST API overview to query active streams, inspect stream details, force disconnect a stream, or mute and unmute audio or video.
Custom transcoding parametersUse template APIs in the REST API overview to create, update, delete, or set default transcoding templates for ingress streams.
Server event notification callbackConfigure notifications by following Receive notifications about channel events, then use the event type reference to interpret callback payloads.

Applicable use cases

Use caseDescription
Commentary from influencers and celebritiesInject high-definition video streams into interactive channels. Multiple hosts can watch and interact in real time from different places.
Low-latency distributionDistribute content to viewers faster and more reliably than with a CDN.
Recording and live broadcastingA teacher records content in advance and injects it into a live classroom. Students and teaching assistants can watch the content and interact in real time.
24-hour chat roomBackground music is played continuously and is not interrupted when switching hosts.