Mixhalo Announces New Tech for Live Event Streaming | Reopening Venues

Mixhalo Expands Live Event Audio Streaming with New Technologies

With the resumption of events nationwide, Mixhalo has unveiled two new additions to its platform for in-person audio streaming at live events: Mixhalo Over Cellular and Mixhalo Rodeo.

Mixhalo Over Cellular: Leveraging 5G Technology

Mixhalo Over Cellular functions as its name suggests. Instead of relying on traditional Wi-Fi networks, it utilizes 5G connectivity. The company asserts that this will deliver comparable “ultra-low latency” performance to its original Wi-Fi-based offering.

Mixhalo is collaborating with a mobile carrier for the rollout of this feature, though the specific carrier remains undisclosed. While LTE compatibility exists, 5G is prioritized due to its superior capacity for minimizing latency.

Mixhalo Rodeo: Optimizing Existing Venue Infrastructure

Mixhalo Rodeo is engineered to integrate with existing venue wireless systems, eliminating the need for installing a separate, dedicated overlay network.

According to CEO John Vars, the Rodeo system actually reduces network congestion. Existing access points become aware of Mixhalo traffic and can proactively manage and buffer data. “If a venue has upgraded its wireless system after 2015, it likely possesses the necessary hardware to support Rodeo,” Vars explains to TechCrunch.

Implementation requires installing a server within the venue’s server room, representing the sole hardware requirement for Rodeo.

Company Background and Pandemic Response

Founded in part by Incubus guitarist Mike Einziger, Mixhalo initially launched its technology at Disrupt 2017, showcasing its potential to deliver live event audio with exceptionally low latency.

The year 2020, and the first half of 2021, presented significant challenges for the startup, given its dependence on live events. Vars shared with TechCrunch that the company was compelled to reduce its workforce as contracts were terminated.

However, the company has since experienced growth, fueled by strategic partnerships.

Future Outlook and Innovation

“The pandemic provided an opportunity to refocus and enhance our core product,” states Vars. “This includes the introduction of Mixhalo Rodeo and Mixhalo over Cellular, as well as the ability to dynamically adjust latency based on a listener’s location within the venue.”

Vars suggests that these improvements, which might not have been prioritized during peak pre-pandemic activity, have generated increased interest from partners in the sports industry. The company anticipates significant adoption of Mixhalo within this sector.