Cloud Playout Solution
Cloud playout is broadcast channel origination run in software instead of a rack of hardware — it assembles a 24/7 linear channel from a schedule of files and live sources, inserts graphics and ad breaks, and outputs a continuous stream that never goes dark. It's the engine behind FAST channels and internet TV, and it replaces expensive on-prem playout gear with elastic cloud infrastructure.
Apexnova builds custom cloud playout you own outright — scheduling, graphics and branding, ad-break signaling, and 24/7 channel origination to your apps and FAST platforms — production-ready in 30 days, running continuously at up to 95% lower cost than traditional playout.
What cloud playout actually needs
Scheduling and channel assembly. A playlist engine that builds a 24/7 channel from files and live sources — scheduled programming, loops, day-parting, and last-minute changes — with no dead air.
Graphics, branding, and transitions. Channel logos (bugs), lower thirds, squeeze-backs, and smooth transitions between items, so the output looks like a broadcast channel, not a video playlist.
Ad-break signaling (SCTE-35). Standards-based ad markers so downstream server-side ad insertion can fill breaks — the link between playout and FAST monetization.
Reliability and failover. Redundant playout paths and monitoring, because a linear channel that goes dark loses viewers and ad revenue instantly.
Cloud playout vs traditional playout
Software playout in the cloud replaces the capital cost and fixed capacity of on-prem hardware with elastic infrastructure you scale per channel.
| Aspect | Cloud playout | Traditional playout |
|---|---|---|
| Cost model | Elastic, pay-per-channel | Capital hardware + rack space |
| Scaling | Spin up channels on demand | Buy and install hardware |
| Location | Anywhere, remote-operated | Fixed facility |
| Best for | FAST channels, internet TV | Legacy broadcast chains |
What you get
A production-ready cloud playout system — a scheduling and channel-assembly engine, graphics and branding, SCTE-35 ad-break signaling, redundant failover, and output to your own apps and to FAST platforms. Integrates with our FAST channel and live streaming builds so playout, distribution, and monetization are one platform. Your channels, your infrastructure — no per-channel licensing lock-in.
Why Apexnova for cloud playout
- No hardware, no fixed capacity. Elastic cloud playout at up to 95% lower cost than traditional gear.
- Broadcast-grade output. Graphics, branding, and clean transitions, not a looping file.
- FAST-ready. SCTE-35 signaling and distribution feeds that plug into ad insertion and FAST aggregators.
- 30-day delivery, full ownership. 20+ platforms shipped.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cloud playout solution?
Cloud playout is broadcast channel origination run in software in the cloud instead of on-premise hardware. It assembles a 24/7 linear channel from a schedule of files and live sources, adds graphics and ad-break markers, and outputs a continuous stream. Apexnova builds custom cloud playout production-ready in 30 days.
How is cloud playout different from just looping a video?
A real playout engine schedules distinct programming with day-parting, inserts channel branding and graphics, signals ad breaks with SCTE-35, and fails over cleanly, so the output is a genuine broadcast channel rather than a repeating file with no monetization or structure.
Can cloud playout feed FAST platforms?
Yes. We output distribution-ready feeds with SCTE-35 ad-break signaling so channels can be monetized with server-side ad insertion and onboarded to FAST platforms like Samsung TV Plus, LG Channels, and Roku, alongside your own apps.
How much cheaper is cloud playout than hardware?
Cloud playout replaces capital hardware and fixed rack capacity with elastic infrastructure you pay for per channel, which we tune for up to 95% lower cost than a traditional on-prem playout chain.
Launch your channels in the cloud
Tell us how many channels you need, your sources, and your distribution targets, and we'll return a fixed-scope quote with a 30-day plan and a per-channel running-cost projection.