Microsoft tests new tech to provide digital content in remote geographies

Microsoft is testing new content delivery technology to bridge that digital divide.

Microsoft trials last-mile content delivery tech (Microsoft )

Microsoft on Tuesday said it successfully conducted a trial project to provide content to users in low internet geographies in India. The company teamed up with streaming service Eros Now to leverage Azure platform and commerce capabilities from Novopay. Eros Now provided the content.

Eros Now's content was uploaded to a central content repository built on Azure. The cloud platform helped process large volumes of data to distribute to hubs. Then, users connected to these hubs to download content to their devices without needing internet connectivity. The company said that the process was completely secure.

The set up enabled users in low connectivity geographies to access Eros Now's content and pay for services in different modes. The month-long pilot programme tested the set up from cloud to end consumers' service.

Microsoft now plans to extend the project with new service providers.

“We're committed to bringing together cloud technology, industry expertise, and partners to help our media and entertainment customers innovate and grow. By helping customers in low bandwidth locations across India access the content of their choice, we can expand retail distribution opportunities, help media partners connect with more customers, and help customers connect with stories and content they love,” said Ravi Krishnaswamy, Corporate Vice President – Azure Global Industry, Microsoft in a post.

“The association with Microsoft to utilise its cloud-enabled last-mile content delivery enables Eros Now to lead the space by tapping the underserved potential customer base in low bandwidth areas and continue catering to market demands,” added Ali Hussein, CEO, Eros Now.