Beam, the Microsoft owned livestreaming platform that’s integrated into Windows 10 and the Xbox One, will now be known as Mixer.
“Why the name change? This was a tough decision, and not one that we made lightly,” said Matt Salsamendi, co-founder and engineering lead at Mixer, in a blog post. “But, it was something that we decided on as a team. We believe so much in the power of the platform and want to grow it in every major market around the world. Unfortunately, that wasn’t something we could do with the Beam name.”
“We chose Mixer as our new name because it represents what we love most about the service….how it brings people together,” said Salsamendi.
Mixer plans to continue attempting to distinguish itself by adding features that other services don’t offer, and to keep focusing on streaming as a social experience. Mixer says that its streams run with less than one second of delay. Youtube and Twitch, both who’s services make Mixer look like an ant on Mars, have latency rates of around 10-20 seconds.
Features and Plans
- Co-Streaming Mixer has the first built-in cooperative streaming experience on a streaming platform where up to 4 streamers can combine their streams into a single viewer experience. Co-streaming enables multiple channel streams to be displayed on a single Mixer page.
- Mixer Create Beta Launches on Mobile Devices (iOS and Android) Mixer Create is a new mobile app that enables self-broadcasting. the beta is available publicly on Android, and through Apple’s TestFlight service by invite only. Micosoft plans to add the ability to stream live gameplay from your mobile device as well.
- Channel One. Channel One is an always-on, moderated channel of content that lets you see what’s happening across Mixer. We’ll highlight a wide variety of content, including big title releases, livestream events, tips and tricks, esports updates, and more. There’s always something new on Channel One, and it’s a great “first stop” for new visitors to see what’s out there and get acquainted with our service.
- Mixer Page on the Xbox One Dashboard. Launching today to Xbox Insiders, the new Mixer page on the Xbox One dashboard will feature some of the most unique, popular and engaging streams that are broadcast on Mixer, curated by our dedicated team. We’ll showcase the huge variety of diverse, creative content from our streaming community and allow viewers to easily find content relevant to them. And it’s a great way to see what many of our awesome Mixer partners are up to.
Mixer NYC Studio
Microsoft has also opened the Mixer NYC Studio in their Manhattan flagship Microsoft Store. the Mixer NYC Studio is a digital production studio designed for live audience, competitive and community gaming events. The studio has capabilities to bring gaming and esports events live from the store’s 5th floor via Mixer. They hope the studio becomes a destination for gaming fans.
The studio sports professional-grade gaming stations, a control room all the latest tool with support for 2D and 3D graphic effects, a concert grade audio system, interactive lighting control, an LED video wall. Plus there isshoutcaster desk and player lounges, along with stage, audience and commentary setups.
Check out Mixer.com/MicrosoftStore for the latest Mixer NYC Studio events, streams and how to join.
