Microsoft shows off Smooth Streaming

With internet content taking off Microsoft is making sure they won’t be left out of the game.  They recently showed off a new Internet Information Services extension which allows adaptive streaming to Silverlight clients over HTTP.  This will allow true HD (720p+) streaming on content distribution networks.

From the IIS website:

Smooth Streaming provides media companies with a better way to make true HD (720p+) on the Web a reality. It offers code-free deployment and simplified content management for content creators and content delivery networks. For end users, the improved video viewing experience will bring the reliability and quality of television to their favorite video Web sites.

While this may not seem like a big deal, true HD streaming is something that I’ve personally been looking forward to.  If Microsoft can jump and then stay ahead of Adobe Flash, we may actually have a competition and more people may need to start installing Silverlight!

Click here to watch the HD demo.  Not only is it HD, but rather funny as well!