Microsoft Azure Media Services retires its services

Azure Media Services is a cloud-based media platform provided by Microsoft Azure and used by various streaming services and content providers for media content delivery and management, as well as broadcast-quality video streaming. Some of the streaming services that have used Azure Media Services in the past or are still using it are:

1. Netflix: Azure Media Services is used by Netflix, among others, to deliver its streaming content to millions of users worldwide.

2. HBO (Home Box Office): HBO has used Azure Media Services to stream its content, including television shows and movies.

3. Hulu: Azure Media Services was used by Hulu, a popular streaming service that offers a wide range of television shows and movies.

4. Disney+: The Walt Disney Company's streaming service, Disney+, has used Azure Media Services to deliver content.

5. BBC iPlayer: Azure Media Services was used by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for its on-demand streaming service BBC iPlayer.

6. ITV Hub: ITV Hub, ITV's streaming platform, has also used Azure Media Services to stream its content.

Why are Azure Media Services being retired?

According to Microsoft's official statement, Azure Media Services will be discontinued as the company will focus on other strategic areas that will provide long-term growth and competitiveness for the company.

What happens to the customer data after the expiration date?

Azure Media Services stores two types of data: customer videos and associated files (for example, ISM, ISMC, and .mp4 files) that form a Media Services object, and Media Services account data. Customer videos and associated files are stored in Customer's Azure Storage account and are unaffected by Media Services discontinuation. However, all account data, including streaming endpoints, live events, and resource metadata, is deleted as part of the discontinuation process.

Azure CDN will also discontinue Akamai's Azure CDN

Since May 16, 2016, Azure has partnered with Akamai Technologies Inc. to offer Azure CDN Standard from Akamai. Azure and Akamai Technologies Inc. have decided not to renew this partnership. As a result, Akamai's Azure CDN Standard services will no longer be supported on October 31, 2023.

Azure Media Player will also be discontinued on June 30, 2024.

Microsoft recommends that all customers switch in a timely manner to avoid service interruptions. So if you're looking for an alternative now, be sure to check out our solutions.

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