The Future of Virtual Collaboration Lawrence A. Rowe Computer Science Division – EECS University of California, Berkeley Internet2 Virtual Panel January 24, 2002
I2 Virtual Panel (1/24/02)2 Assumptions Computation cycles are free Install multiple computers to provide services Bandwidth will be free Think about new uses of bandwidth Use of the Internet Publication – the web Communication – , newsgroups, chat, etc. Shopping transactions
I2 Virtual Panel (1/24/02)3 Problems or Opportunities Poor audio/video quality Improve algorithms, use more CPU cycles, and use more network bandwidth Larry’s mantra: “multiple video streams with varying quality” Too complex to setup and use Install permanent facilities Automate common operations Build gateway services to support alternative technologies Too expensive Ride technology cost curve Look for integrated solutions
I2 Virtual Panel (1/24/02)4 Research Problems Audio processing Audio balancing, noise reduction, echo cancellation, spatial imaging, etc. Seamless interaction “Sense of Presence” – see all participants Floor control – as easy to learn and use as raising hand
I2 Virtual Panel (1/24/02)5 Problems (cont.) Production automation Start/stop Camera control/stream switching Special-effects processing Scale to large conferences? 4-up video composition for small conferences Webcasts for large conferences Something else between? Support more dynamic operation
I2 Virtual Panel (1/24/02)6 My Opinion Access Grid is emerging standard More flexible than H.32x conferencing Hard problems Operation and control Remote participation Audio support and processing years from now… N-way videoconferencing will ubiquitous like telephones
I2 Virtual Panel (1/24/02)7 Research Links Internet Webcasting Overview Lecture Webcasting Berkeley Lecture Webcasting System RTPtv Technology